Uva Ursi and Water Retention

Uva ursi, botanically known as Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi, is a small evergreen plant featuring red berries. Use the leaves of uva ursi in herbal preparations, as they are considered useful in reducing inflammation and swelling associated with edema. 

According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," uva ursi is a mild diuretic or a substance that promotes the excretion of excess fluid from your body.

Uva ursi is used in treating leg swelling, kidney infections, bladder infections, and prostate conditions. 

There are many natural supplements for water retention that contain uva ursi extracts as an essential ingredient. Is it useful in treating edema? Let's find out. 

How Does It Work:

Uva Ursi contains two essential constituents, arbutin and hydroquinone, which have antibacterial properties. The herb also contains tannins, which help reduce inflammation and swelling associated with water retention. 

Many herbalists recommend the use of this herb to alleviate swelling of the bladder caused by urinary tract infections. It has diuretic properties that help reduce water retention. 

According to Drugs.com, uva ursi is used as a diuretic and remedy for urinary tract infection. It can also be employed to treat allergic reactions and arthritis. 

There is some scientific research supporting the belief that uva ursi can help with swelling and water retention. In a clinical study titled "Pharmacological Studies on Leaf of Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi," it was found that uva ursi contains arbutin, which when combined with indomethacin, worked to reduce swelling. 

What is the Recommended Dosage:

Uva ursi is available in capsule form, and the recommended dosage is 2 to 4g per day. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the capsules should contain 400 to 500 mg of arbutin. 

Brew Uva ursi as a tea by soaking 3g of the dried leaves in 5 oz. of water for 12 hours, then straining the mixture and drinking it hot or cold, three to four times a day. 

Is It Safe For Me:

Uva ursi is safe when used for the short-term. Taking the herb for extended periods may cause some side effects such as nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, and a greenish-brown discoloration of the urine. 

High doses of the herb might cause serious side effects such as liver damage, eye problems, breathing problems, convulsions, and death. 

You should not give uva ursi to children as it can cause severe liver problems. The herb is also not recommended for pregnant or nursing women. 

Are There Any Drug Interactions:

Consult your healthcare practitioner before combining uva ursi with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroids, vitamin C, or citrus fruits and juices. 

You must talk with your doctor before using this product if you are taking lithium. You may need to alter your lithium dose. 

If you are looking for a natural remedy for fluid retention, consider taking Capisette, which contains uva ursi along with other essential herbs that help in reducing edema.