UVA URSI (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) aka - Bearberry, Kinnikinnick, Bear’s Grape, Coralillo

Historically, the Chinese, Europeans, and American Indians considered Uva Ursi a kidney herb. They used the leaves and fresh berries for treating bladder infections, kidney stones, and incontinence. One tribe of North American Indians used an infusion of Uva Ursi for sore gums, canker sores and as a mouthwash. The early colonists found that the American Indians used Uva Ursi and mixed its leaves with tobacco to create the smoking mixture they call “kinnikinnick,” one of Uva Ursi’s common names. Uva Ursi strengthens the urinary passages and is good for inflammation in any part of the urinary system. It has been used to help correct bed-wetting, bladder diseases, cystitis, kidney congestion and infections of the kidneys and urinary tract. It’s also said to have the ability to dissolve kidney stones. Due to the proximity of the prostate to the urinary tract in males, it has also been used in prostate remedies. It increases the flow of urine and cleanses the spleen. Uva Ursi is a remedy for excessive sugar in the blood and helps control diabetes. It is useful for arthritis and inflammation throughout the body.  
PLEASE NOTE:  Uva Ursi has a large amount of tannins, which can cause stomach upset if taken in large quantities and should not be given to children under the age of two. The herb often turns the urine a dark green, do not become alarmed, this is normal.