Bearberry leaf information
Bearberry leaf is used by herbal
practitioners as a urinary antiseptic and diuretic
Bearberry can be used for:
Lower urinary tract
infections, esp. cystitis
Urinary stones or gravel
Bladder and kidney
infections
Blood in the urine
Contraindications & interactions
Avoid in pregnancy and
lactation as excessive use may cause nausea, vomiting and tinnitus due to the
high levels of tannins
Bearberry works best
when your urine is alkaline therefore it is best not to use alongside treatments or diets (such as the high meat content diets) which make
urine acidic
The high tannin levels may
interfere with the absorption of various nutrients
Active compounds
Bearberry contains arbutin,
which is a phenolic glycoside compound that is converted to hydroquinone in
alkaline urine and is responsible for the antiseptic properties. It has been shown to be effective against E.
coli a common cause of UTI’s; tannins, which give Bearberry its astringent
properties; flavonoids and resin
What herbal practitioners say about Bearberry
Bearberry is a cooling,
bitter, astringent diuretic and urinary antiseptic, useful in the treatment of
bladder and kidney infections. When
combined with Marshmallow root it can be used to dissolve urinary stones. It gently soothes, tones and strengthens the
urinary tract membranes, clears blood from the urine and increases circulation
in the kidneys. It can be used in the
treatment of some forms of bedwetting due to its astringency.
Tincture dose
Adult dose 1.5 – 3mls three
times a day of a 1:3 tincture.
When buying herbal remedies always buy tinctures not pills or capsules. Click here for more information and advice on buying herbal remedies.
Naturopaths
treat the whole person not just the disease or condition. That's why you
cannot use this site for diagnosis or treatment. The information we provide
should not be treated as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. We
recommend that you visit a qualified naturopath or find a GP who is sympathetic
to a naturopathic approach. Click
here for our full disclaimer.