Bear-grape
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, commonly known as bearberry, is a traditional medicinal plant primarily used in European and North American herbal practices. It has been traditionally employed for its purported benefits in treating urinary tract infections (UTIs), though specific uses vary among different cultural traditions. Scientific evidence suggests that the roots of A. uva-ursi can accumulate significant amounts of copper and zinc, with bioaccumulation factors of 30.44 and 20.59, respectively. Additionally, there is preliminary research indicating potential antiviral activity against HSV-1 using silver nanoparticles derived from this plant. However, the effectiveness of uva-ursi in treating UTIs remains largely anecdotal, with hot water extraction being more effective for polyphenol content than maceration. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded, but further research is needed to validate its therapeutic claims and optimize extraction methods.
- 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
- Arctostaphylos uva-ursi roots accumulated copper and zinc, with bioaccumulation factors of 30.44 and 20.59, respectively.
- The study found that uva-ursi silver nanoparticles may have potential antiviral activity against HSV-1.
- Arctostaphylos uva-ursi was one of the herbs used for treating uncomplicated urinary tract infections, according to patient reports.
- Hot water extraction was more effective than maceration for extracting polyphenols from most plants, with A. uva-ursi being an exception.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bear-grape?
Bear-grape (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) 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 Bear-grape?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Bear-grape; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi roots accumulated copper and zinc, with bioaccumulation factors of 30.44 and 20.59, respectively.
How strong is the evidence for Bear-grape?
The strongest finding for Bear-grape carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Bear-grape safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Bear-grape in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Bear-grape interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Bear-grape in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Bear-grape?
Bear-grape is also known as: Толокнянка обыкновенная, Arbousier traînant.
Is Bear-grape 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 Accumulation of heavy metals in soil, medicinal plants and agricultural crops irrigated with drain water. Case study of Bahr El-Baqar Drain, Egypt. 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