Arctostaphylos uva ursi is a low-growing, evergreen shrub native to mountainous regions throughout the northern hemisphere. Uva ursi is a member of the Ericaceae family with thick leaves and clusters of urn-shaped flowers. When in fruit, the berries resemble a bunch of grapes which bears are known to occasionally snack upon. Both Arctostaphylos and uva ursi translate to “grape of the bear”. Also called bearberry, uva ursi leaf is astringent and tannic, and can be tinctured, applied topically, or brewed as uva ursi tea.
Traditionally used as a tea or tincture. Frequently combined with buchu, cleavers, dandelion leaf, parsley fruit, or juniper berries. May also be taken in capsule form.
