Uva ursi is an evergreen shrub in the heather family also known as upland cranberry, barberry, bear's grape, and bearberry. The latter common names refer to the berries being a preferred snack for bears. While the fruits of the plant provide food for wildlife, the leaves, harvested in autumn, have historically been used to counter infection and inflammation.
One of the active compounds in this herb, hydroquinone, dictates that it should only be used internally for brief periods – no more than a week at a time and not more than 4 or 5 times in a year.
Consult your physician before using this herb, especially if you have a chronic condition or take pharmaceutical medications.
