Uva ursi is an evergreen shrub which has dark leathery green leaves. It contains hydroquinone derivatives such as arbutin and methyl-arbutin. These chemicals have medicinal value as antibacterial agents, but they also produce serious side effects.
Applications
Uva ursi leaves have been used to treat urinary tract infections, bladder inflammation, and as a diuretic.
Side Effects
Consuming large amounts of uva ursi can cause ringing of the ears, nausea, vomiting, blue coloration of skin and convulsions.
Toxicity
Arbutin and methyl-arbutin are converted to hydroquinone in the stomach, which is extremely toxic to the liver. According to Drugs.com, death can occur after consuming 5 g of hydroquinone.
Dosage
According to Drugs.com, 400 to 840 mg of arbutin, about 10 g of uva ursi leaves, is the recommended dosage for treatment of urinary tract infection. This is well below the toxic range.
Considerations
Uva ursi leaves have oxytocic effects, meaning they can hasten labor by stimulating uterine contractions in pregnant women.
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