How It Works

Uva Ursi, known as kinnikinnick to the Indians, is also known as mountain cranberry, and bearberry. It is an evergreen shrub that grows close to the ground, preferring elevations above 6,000 feet. Bears like the red berries, as did the North American Indians. It is also used in Europe where it grows in northern latitudes. Most commercial uva ursi is grown in Spain. The leaves contain an antiseptic substance known as arbutin, making it a helpful nutritional supplement for the urinary system. Uva ursi contains vitamin A, iron and magnesium. It was once used to tan leather due to its high tannin content.