bearberry

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is a medicinal plant with a variety of actions and uses. Its main pharmacological action is its ability to act as a urinary antiseptic, meaning it has the ability to kill bacteria and other microorganisms that cause infections in the urinary tract. bearberry contains arbutin, a compound that is converted in the body to hydroquinone, which is responsible for its antibacterial effects. 

In addition to its antibacterial properties, bearberry has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and diuretic effects. These actions may be beneficial for a range of conditions, including urinary tract infections, cystitis, and kidney stones. It has also been used historically for its astringent properties, which can help to tone and tighten tissues, as well as for its antispasmodic effects, which may be useful for reducing muscle spasms and cramps. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

greenish-brown urine 

Nausea 

vomiting 

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Hypersensitivity or allergy to the plant or any of its components 
• Renal impairment, such as acute or chronic kidney disease, due to the risk of accumulation of the active component in the body and potential renal toxicity 
• Pregnancy and lactation due to the lack of safety data

Caution: 

bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) should be used with caution in individuals with renal insufficiency or dysfunction. It should not be used during the pregnancy or lactation without medical supervision. Individuals with a known hypersensitivity to bearberry, its components, or to other members of the Ericaceae family should avoid its use. bearberry should not be used in children unless prescribed by a healthcare provider. Individuals with digestive system problems or liver disease should use bearberry with caution, and it should not be used for more than four to six weeks.  

Comorbidities: 

As a natural product, it is not associated with specific comorbidities. However, individuals with pre-existing kidney or liver disease, diabetes, or a history of allergies should exercise caution. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: N/A 

Lactation: N/A  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: Satisfactory and well-controlled studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: There is no evidence of risk to the fetus found in animal reproduction studies and there are not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: Adverse effects on the fetus found with evidence in animal reproduction studies and no adequate evidence for an effect in humans, care must be taken for potential risks in pregnant women. 
• Category D: There is adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite potential risks may be used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh risks over benefits These category drugs should be prohibited for pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

bearberry contains active compounds such as arbutin, hydroquinone, and tannins. Arbutin is a glycoside that hydrolyzes to hydroquinone in the body. Hydroquinone has antibacterial properties and is responsible for the urinary tract antiseptic effects of bearberry. Tannins are responsible for the astringent effects of bearberry. 

The antibacterial effects of hydroquinone are due to its ability to interfere with the metabolism of microorganisms, particularly in the urinary tract. It inhibits the growth of bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus vulgaris, which are commonly implicated in urinary tract infections. 

bearberry also has diuretic properties, which can help to flush out the urinary tract and reduce the risk of infections. It may also have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce inflammation in the urinary tract.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

bearberry, also known as uva ursi, has been traditionally used for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties. The active component of bearberry is hydroquinone, which is converted into arbutin, a glycoside, in the body. Arbutin is then excreted in the urine, where it acts as an antimicrobial agent in the urinary tract. 

bearberry also contains tannins, which have astringent properties that helps in reducing inflammation and soothe irritated tissues. In addition, bearberry has been shown to have antioxidant activity, which may help protect against oxidative damage caused by free radicals.  

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

The active components of bearberry are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, but the bioavailability is low. 

Distribution 

After absorption, the active components of bearberry are distributed throughout the body, but they tend to accumulate in the kidneys, where they exert their therapeutic effects. 

Metabolism 

The active components of bearberry are mainly metabolized in the liver by glucuronidation, hydrolysis, and oxidation. 

Elimination and excretion 

The metabolites of bearberry are primarily excreted through the urine, where they contribute to the antibacterial effect of the plant in the urinary tract. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

bearberry is available in various forms such as capsules, tablets, tinctures, and teas. The appropriate administration of bearberry depends on the intended use and the specific product. Additionally, bearberry should not be used as a substitute for proper medical care. 

If using bearberry as a tea, typically 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves are steeped in hot water for 10-15 minutes and consumed up to three times per day. Tinctures and liquid extracts can be mixed with water and taken orally. Capsules and tablets should be taken with water, and the dosage will depend on the specific product and the intended use. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: bearberry 

Pronounced: (BEAR-ber-ee)  

Why do we use bearberry? 

• Urinary tract infections: It is primarily used to treat urinary tract infections due to its antibacterial properties. 
• Diuretic: It is a natural diuretic that increases urine output, and it is often used to treat edema and fluid retention. 
• Antioxidant: bearberry contains antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. 
• Anti-inflammatory: It has anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve pain and swelling. 
• Gastrointestinal disorders: It may help treat gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea, stomach ulcers, and inflammatory bowel disease. 
• Skin conditions: It is used topically to treat skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. 
• Oral health: It has been used to treat oral health problems like gingivitis and bad breath.