Uva ursi has been used for centuries in the folk medicines of Europe and North America for treating various ailments. Uva ursi is a type of shrub, which grows in the colder regions of Northern Hemisphere. Before invention of antibiotic drugs, leaves of uva ursi were widely used by herbalists for treating infections.
Scientists have identified a number of antimicrobial compounds in uva ursi. However, uva ursi should not be taken for a prolonged period. Excessive consumption of the herb may irritate the urinary tract and cause liver damage. Uva ursi should not be taken by children below 12 years of age and pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Health Benefits of Uva Ursi
Treats Urinary Tract Infection
Uva ursi is an effective herbal remedy for urinary tract infection. The main antimicrobial constituents of the herb are arbutin and hydroquinone. They help destroy the pathogens in the urinary tract. The tannin in the leaves soothes the urinary tract and reduces inflammation. However, uva ursi works best in an alkaline environment. Therefore, avoid acidic fruits while taking uva ursi for treating urinary infections.
Prevents Fluid Retention
Uva ursi is a powerful diuretic. By increasing urine production, it helps in flushing out excess fluid from the body. It helps in providing relief from swelling caused by water retention or edema.
Treats Kidney Stones
Urva ursi is also valued for its lithotriptic property. It helps in dissolving the kidney stones. The diuretic action of the herb helps in flushing out the small stones from the kidneys. By eliminating the crystal forming substances from the kidneys, it reduces the risk of recurrent formation of kidney stones.
Skin Lightening
When used topically, uva ursi helps in lightening the skin. Hydroquinone, the main active compound in the leaves of the herb, reduces melanin production. It helps in lightening the complexion. It can be used as a remedy for hyperpigmentation. By reducing the dark spots and blemishes, it helps in evening out your skin tone.
Treats Acne Breakout
Uva ursi is the ideal herb for the acne prone skin. The antibacterial property of the herb helps in destroying the acne causing bacteria. The herb also acts as an astringent. It helps in tightening the pores that help in reducing excess oil secretion, which tend to worsen the breakout.
Wound Healing
Topical application of uva ursi helps in speeding up healing of wounds. Its antiseptic property protects the wounds from pathogens. Uva ursi contains allantoin, which soothes the tissues and helps in repairing the damaged tissues.
Alleviates Symptoms of Gout
The diuretic activity of uva ursi helps in eliminating the excess uric acid from the body. Uric acid crystals accumulating in the joints trigger inflammation and pain in the joints. The condition known as gout can be prevented by taking uva ursi tea.
Bronchitis Remedy
Drinking uva ursi tea helps in providing fast relief from bronchitis. It helps in reducing excess mucus secretion in the lungs. The antimicrobial property of the herb helps in fighting respiratory infections. Uva ursi also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help in reducing inflammation of the airways. Hence, it helps in providing relief from breathing difficulties.
Weight Loss
By getting rid of the excess water weight, uva ursi can help in fast weight loss. It works especially in the early stage of the weight loss process, when losing several pounds rapidly encourages you to follow your weight loss program.
Reduces High Blood Pressure
The diuretic effect of uva ursi helps in eliminating excess sodium from the body, which helps in lowering the blood pressure level naturally. However, the diuretic effect of the herb may also deplete the potassium reserve of your body. Therefore, remember to consume sufficient potassium rich fruits and vegetables while using the herbal diuretic.
Diarrhea Remedy
This herb can help in providing fast relief from diarrhea. Tannin in uva ursi leaves helps in binding the stools. It helps in reducing the water content in fecal material, which helps in hardening the stool.
Fights Fungal Infection
Uva usi also helps in suppressing growth of the Candida yeasts. It is an effective remedy for yeast infections of the skin. It is also recommended by herbalists for treating vaginal yeast infections.
Relaxes Muscles
Uva ursi also works as a muscle relaxant. Topical application of uva ursi extract on the strained muscles helps in reducing the muscle pain. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory property of the herb helps in reducing muscle swelling.
Detoxification
Uva ursi is also recommended for speeding up the detoxification process of the body. Drinking uva ursi tea helps in cleansing the kidneys. It helps in removing the toxins from the body that are responsible for various chronic diseases.
Antioxidants
Uva ursi also contains antioxidant compounds that help in protecting the body cells from free radicals. The antioxidant property of the herb reduces oxidative stress, which is one of the leading causes of chronic diseases.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
