Better Together - Uva Ursi & Dandelion Benefits

Uva Ursi (Bear Berry) 

Uva ursi is a shrub that grows flowers and berries. It's the leaves are used in herbal supplements.

In Latin 'Uva ursi' means 'Bear's grape' and uva ursi is commonly known as bear berry, because bears loved to eat the berries. 

Before antibiotics, uva ursi was used to prevent and treat UTIs and cystitis. This herb contains tannins that have astringent effects, helping to shrink and tighten mucous membranes in the body. In turn, that helps reduce inflammation and fight infection. 

Uva ursi is used as a urinary tract antibacterial and urinary antiseptic. It can also reduce bacteria growth in the urine due to the alkaline environment. One study found uva ursi was more effective and prevented UTI's when combined with dandelion root extract because the uva ursi helps to kill bacteria and the dandelion root increases urine production. However Uva Ursi is not considered a safe long-term solution.

If you'd like to try these two herbal supplements, they are available in capsules or as a refreshing tea - see here

Dandelion Root 

Those little yellow 'weeds' that you see on the sidewalk can be used to treats muscle aches, eczema, bruises and tummy aches. It’s also used to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). The power comes from the roots and the flowers. Chemicals in dandelions may decrease inflammation and swelling and increase the production of urine. Dandelion helps with bloating and can provide relief due to its diuretic properties.

Watch this video that talk about the benefits of uva ursi for preventing UTI: