Overview
Uva Ursi Leaf Extract (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is a traditional herbal remedy primarily used for urinary tract health, particularly in the prevention and management of urinary tract infections and urolithiasis (urinary stones). The active constituent, arbutin, is hydrolyzed in the body to hydroquinone, which exerts antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects in the urinary tract, especially under alkaline urine conditions. Evidence from ethnopharmacological studies supports its use as a urinary antiseptic and antiurolithiatic agent, with in vitro and animal studies demonstrating antioxidant and stone-inhibiting properties [1][2]. More recent research highlights its potential in cosmeceutical applications due to high polyphenol and arbutin content, showing skin depigmenting, antioxidant, and rejuvenating effects in topical formulations [3]. However, clinical evidence in humans remains limited, and long-term use is discouraged due to potential hepatotoxicity from hydroquinone metabolites.
Dosage Guide
Therapeutic Doses
For treatment of specific conditions
Upper Intake Limit
Maximum safe daily intake
800 mg— Maximum daily dose should not exceed 800 mg; use limited to 1 week per month due to hydroquinone toxicity risk
Special Forms
Alternative forms for specific needs
Ensures consistent dosing of active compound for urinary or skin applications
May reduce gastric irritation and improve delivery
Clinical Notes
- Do not use for more than one week at a time; prolonged use increases risk of hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity due to hydroquinone release.
- Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to lack of safety data and potential uterine stimulant effects.
- Contraindicated in children, individuals with kidney disease, or those with acidic urine (pH <7), as it reduces efficacy and increases toxicity risk.
- Avoid concurrent use with urinary acidifiers (e.g., vitamin C, cranberry) as alkaline urine is required for activation.
- Monitor liver function if used repeatedly; discontinue if signs of toxicity appear (nausea, jaundice, fatigue).
Research
Uva Ursi is traditionally used globally as an antiurolithiatic agent, with preparations targeting urinary stone prevention and treatment.
Systematic review notes limited clinical trial evidence for herbal treatments in urolithiasis, including Uva Ursi, though traditional use and mechanistic data support further study.
Nanostructured ethosomal gel with Uva Ursi extract shows significant antioxidant, depigmenting, and skin-rejuvenating effects in vitro and in vivo, attributed to arbutin and polyphenols.
Ursolic acid, found in various plants including some with overlapping traditional uses, has anti-inflammatory and skin-barrier protective effects, though not directly studied in Uva Ursi extract.
Vaccinium species, related to Uva Ursi in traditional use, contain similar polyphenolic compounds with urinary and skin health benefits.
