Additional Notes

Excellent native groundcover.

Other Names: Uva Ursi, Bear's Grape, Crowberry, Foxberry, Hog Cranberry, Kinnikinnick, Mealberry, Arbutus, Manzanita, Mountain Cranberry, Mountain Box, Hogberry

Note 1: The shrub produces brilliant red berries that are often mistaken for cranberries (hence, several of its common names) that remain on the plant all winter, affording survival food for bears, birds and other fauna.  Noting the fact that bears were fond of the berries, the plant received the name Bearberry; and its botanical name, Uva ursi, is derived from the Latin, meaning “bear's grapes.”

Note 2:  Bearberry - In North America, the Cheyenne Indians made a tea that helped back sprains.  The Algonquians (as well as the colonists) mixed the dried leaves of Bearberry with tobacco for smoking purposes, giving the herb another of its common names, “kinnikinnick,” meaning “mixture.

Bearberry has been used for centuries as a mild diuretic with powerful antiseptic qualities that help to remedy the full range of urinary tract infections, such as prostatitis, cystitis, urethritis and vaginitis, among others. Bearberry helps to eliminate wastes and toxins and the accumulation of uric acid in the blood to relieve gout, arthritis and kidney stones, and it is great for reducing excess water weight. Kublai Khan knew of the plant's medicinal properties.

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The information presented herein by Herbal Extracts Plus is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.