Folklore/Common Names:Uva-Ursi, Bearberry, Bear's Grape, Beargrape, Hogberry, Rockberry, Mountain Cranberry, Arberry, Kinnickinick, Mealberry, Mountain Box, Sandberry
Part Used: Leaves
Historical Reference:
While the Latin specific name of Uva Ursi is the one by which this name has re-introduced itself to the world of natural medicines, the generic name of Bearberry is derived from the Greek. Both mean the same, "the bear's grape". It is unknown whether the name was given due to the herb's popularity with bears or whether the unpleasant flavor of the fruit led to a description of being 'only fit for the bears' to eat.
Some sources place Bearberry plant itself originally in Spain, while others claim Marco Polo brought it from China to Europe. Regardless, Bearberry was recognized by herbalists by the 13th century, and was a medicinal staple since the Middle Ages. M. Grieve tells us of Bearberry's lengthy medicinal history in A Modern Herbal, saying that "Uva-Ursi has a place not only in all the old herbals, but also in the modern Pharmacopoeias. There are records that it was used in the thirteenth century by the Welsh 'Physicians of Myddfai.' It was described by Clusius in 1601, and recommended for medicinal use in 1763 by Gerhard of Berlin and others. It had a place in the London Pharmacopoeia for the first time in 1788, though was probably in use long before. It is official in nearly all Pharmacopoeias, some of which use the name Arbutus." Bearberry was official in the United States Pharmacopoeia from 1820 through 1926.
In Sweden and Russian, the leaves have been used for tanning leather, due to the abundance of tannin they contain. In Scandinavian countries, the plant is used to produce an ash colored natural dye.
One singular species of Bearberry, the Black Bearberry, can be found primarily on the barren mountains in northern Scotland and not at all in England, is the badge of the clan of Ross.
Medicinal Use:
Caution: The amount of tannins in Bearberry can produce stomach ache, nausea, and vomiting in those with weak or sensitive stomachs. Bearberry is not recommended for children, pregnant women or those with kidney disease. Do not use Bearberry for more than a weak. If signs of pain or infection increase see your Doctor immediately. As with all herbs, Bearberry is best used under the guidance of a knowledgeable Herbalists and with the consent of your Doctor. Normal medicinal use of Bearberry, however, is considered safe.
