Recurrence over 12 months: 0% with a bearberry and dandelion product vs 23% placebo
Larsson 1993, Curr Ther Res · Source
Uva-Ursi
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi leaf extract
The leaf of bearberry, a low evergreen shrub of northern forests, and one of the classic bladder herbs, with an official European monograph behind it.
EU-recognizedherbal monograph for the urinary tract
Arbutinthe leaf's key natural compound
Commission Eapproved in Germany for the urinary tract
Why we love it
Uva-ursi is one of the classic bladder herbs, with an official European monograph behind it. We use a small amount alongside cranberry and D-mannose rather than as the main ingredient.
What does the research show?
How it's thought to work
Bearberry leaf contains arbutin, which the body turns into compounds that pass into the urine. Researchers have found this works best when urine is less acidic.
Recurrent bladder discomfort
In a small 1993 study of 57 women with recurrent cystitis, none of those who took a bearberry and dandelion product for a month had another episode over the next year, compared with 23% on placebo.
Recent trials
In a 2019 UK trial of 382 women with UTI symptoms, uva-ursi didn't ease symptoms more than placebo. In a 2021 German trial of 398 women, those given uva-ursi first used far fewer antibiotics than those given an antibiotic first, but had more symptoms and more kidney infections (8 vs 2).
Studies
Human study tested in people Lab study a starting point, not proof
Traditional use for mild, recurrent lower urinary tract symptoms in adult women, for up to one week
European Medicines Agency 2018, Uvae ursi folium · Source
Uva-ursi cleared bladder bacteria in 79% of rats, compared with 42% given amoxicillin
Linsenmeyer 2005, NJ Commission on Spinal Cord Research · Source
63.6% fewer antibiotic courses, but higher symptom burden and 8 vs 2 kidney infections
Gágyor 2021, Clin Microbiol Infect · Source
No difference in urinary symptoms on days 2 to 4; antibiotic use 39.9% vs 47.4%, not significant
Moore 2019, Clin Microbiol Infect · Source
How has it been used traditionally?
The European Medicines Agency's herbal monograph recognizes bearberry leaf for traditional use in mild, recurrent lower urinary tract symptoms such as burning or frequent urination, in adult women, after a doctor has ruled out anything serious. Germany's Commission E also approved it for the urinary tract.
Is uva-ursi safe to take?
European guidance limits bearberry leaf to one week at a time and to adult women. It isn't recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for people with kidney disease. It can cause nausea or stomach upset and may turn urine greenish-brown. If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, see a healthcare provider, and seek care right away for fever or back pain.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Last reviewed: November 2026.
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Reviewed by the Momotaro Apotheca medical team, including OB-GYNs and naturopathic doctors. Educational information, not medical advice. All ingredient research