General Description
Bearberry (also known as kinnikinnick) is a small evergreen shrub
found in the northern latitudes of Europe, Asia, and North America.
Found primarily in dry, sandy soil, bearberry has erect, branching
stems, which grow up to 15 centimeters high, and dark green, leathery,
ovate leaves. The plant flowers from May to June, bearing clusters
of small, reddish-white blossoms, which eventually give way to glossy,
bright red berries, each containing several one-seeded stones. The
leaves are used for medicinal purposes.
Health Applications
- Urinary tract infections
- Kidney stones
History and Traditional Use
Historical records indicate that bearberry was used medicinally
in Wales as far back as the thirteenth century.1 Featured
in many old-time herbals as well as in modern pharmacopoeias, bearberry
has traditionally been used for its antiseptic effect on the urinary
tract.
Chemical Composition
The primary active constituent in bearberry leaves is a phenolic
compound called arbutin, which, after consumption, releases an
astringent and antiseptic compound known as hydroquinone. Bearberry
leaves also contain urosolic acid and isoquercitrin, which contribute
to the herb's diuretic activity.2 Some studies indicate
that the leaves' high concentration of tannic acid may also have
an antibacterial effect.3,4
Contemporary
Uses
Bearberry leaves are primarily used to treat urinary tract infections.
Germany's Commission E lists bearberry leaf as an approved herb
for treating inflammatory disorders of the urinary tract,5
and studies conducted on laboratory animals appear to support
such use.6-10 One study conducted on rats suggests
that bearberry leaves may also help dissolve kidney stones, but
this effect has yet to be demonstrated on human subjects.11
Dosage/Toxicity
The dosage approved by Commission E is three grams of dried leaves
prepared as an infusion with 150 milliliters of water taken up
to four times per day.5 There are no known health hazards
associated with this dosage range, although some individuals may
experience stomach upset and vomiting due to the herb's high tannin
content.12 Bearberry is not recommended for use by
pregnant women or nursing mothers.5 |
