Bearberries
Arctostaphylos
Arctostaphylos, commonly known as bearberry or uva-ursi, is a traditional plant used in various herbal remedies. While its specific uses are not well-documented in historical traditions, it has been traditionally favored for treating uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Scientific studies have shown that the ethyl acetate sub-extract from Arctostaphylos fruits exhibits strong tyrosinase inhibition and melanin inhibition, comparable to a standard compound. Additionally, uva-ursi silver nanoparticles may possess antiviral potential against HSV-1 by interacting with the viral envelope. However, hot water extraction was found to be more effective than maceration for extracting polyphenols from most plants, though ultrasound was only superior for two species. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for Arctostaphylos.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The ethyl acetate sub-extract from Vaccinium arctostaphylos fruits showed strong tyrosinase inhibition and melanin inhibition comparable to a standard compound.
- The study found that uva-ursi silver nanoparticles may have antiviral potential against HSV-1 by interacting with the viral envelope.
- Arctostaphylos uva-ursi was one of the herbs preferred for treating uncomplicated urinary tract infections, according to patient-reported outcomes.
- Hot water extraction was more effective than maceration for extracting polyphenols from most plants, though ultrasound was only superior for two species.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bearberries?
Bearberries (Arctostaphylos) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Bearberries?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Bearberries; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The ethyl acetate sub-extract from Vaccinium arctostaphylos fruits showed strong tyrosinase inhibition and melanin inhibition comparable to a standard compound.
How strong is the evidence for Bearberries?
The strongest finding for Bearberries carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Bearberries safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Bearberries in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Bearberries interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Bearberries in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Bearberries?
Bearberries is also known as: Толокнянка, Busserole.
Is Bearberries a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Inhibitory effect of Vaccinium arctostaphylos L. and Vaccinium myrtillus L. extracts on melanogenesis in α-MSH-induced B16F10 melanoma cells: in vitro, molecular docking ADMET and drug-likeness studies. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The Influence of Water Extraction Methods on the Isolation of Polyphenols and Tannins from Various Ericaceae and Rosaceae Species. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Trends and Patterns for the Use of Herbal Medicinal Products for Gynaecological Ailments. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Gellan Gum/Alginate Films Containing Biogenic uva ursi Silver Nanoparticles: Analytical Characterization and Antiviral Activity Against HSV-1. literature abstract metadata