Plant Part: Leaf (Cut & Sifted)

Package Size: 1 oz Pouch

Flavor Profile: Earthy, robust, woody, and distinctly astringent with dry herbal undertones and a clean, bitter finish

Overview & Traditional Uses

A resilient, low-growing evergreen groundcover native to subarctic regions and high-altitude alpine slopes across North America, Europe, and Asia, Uva Ursi translates literally from Latin as "grape of the bear" (reflecting bears' fondness for its bright red berries). Revered across indigenous North American traditions (a sacred foundation of traditional Kinnikinnick smoking mixtures) and documented in 13th-century Welsh herbal manuscripts and official pharmacopeias worldwide, Uva Ursi leaf is celebrated as the supreme botanical antiseptic and astringent tonic for the urinary tract. Loaded with the phenolic glycoside arbutin (which hydroquinonizes in alkaline urine to cleanse urinary pathways), potent gallotannins, and flavonoids, it is steeped to tone mucosal tissues and clear stagnant urinary heat.

• Targeted Urinary Tract Cleansing: A gold-standard traditional urinary antiseptic and astringent steeped for short-term support to cleanse the bladder, soothe irritated urethral linings, and tone sluggish pelvic pathways.

• Metaphysical & Folklore Uses: Ruled by Saturn and the Earth element. Deeply tied to grounding, ancient mountain wisdom, spiritual boundaries, psychic shielding, and sacred connection to the earth. Traditionally used in ceremonial smudges, blessing mixtures, and boundary-holding mojo bags to anchor focus, clear heavy mental static, and cultivate spiritual perseverance.

• Tissue Toning & Cold Infusions: Packed with astringent tannins that tighten and tone boggy, relaxed mucous membranes throughout the lower tract, making it an effective ally for restorative herbal steams and sitz baths.

Brewing & Preparation

• Cold Extraction Method (Recommended to Reduce Tannin Bitterness): Add 1 tablespoon of cut leaf to 16 oz of cold water in a glass jar. Cover and let steep on the counter or in the refrigerator for 8–12 hours. Strain and sip. (Cold water extracts the cleansing arbutin while minimizing the heavy, astringent tannins that can upset sensitive stomachs.)

• Standard Warm Infusion: Steep 1–2 teaspoons of cut leaf in 8 oz of freshly boiled water for 10–12 minutes, covered. Strain and drink warm.

• Pairs Well With: Marshmallow Root, Dandelion Leaf, Cleavers, Cornsilk, Juniper Berries, Rose Petals.

Precautions & Storage

• Precautions: Contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing due to potential oxytocic (uterine-stimulating) effects and hydroquinone content. Strictly contraindicated for individuals with active kidney disease, kidney failure, or severe liver disorders. Intended for short-term use only: limit continuous consumption to no more than 7–10 consecutive days, and no more than 5 times per year. High doses or long-term overuse can cause nausea or liver strain due to concentrated tannins and hydroquinones. May turn urine a harmless greenish-brown tint. Not intended for infants or young children. Consult your healthcare provider prior to use if taking prescription medications.

• Storage: Store sealed in an airtight container or glass jar in a cool, dark, dry pantry away from direct heat and moisture to protect its leathery leaf structure and active arbutin glycosides.

(These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.)