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Herbs & Supplements
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Scientific Name: Uva Ursi
Other Names: Arberry, Bear Grape, Bearberry, Coralillo, Hogberry, Kinnikinnick, Mealberry, Mountain Cranberry, Rockberry, Sandberry
What side effects should I watch for?
Major Side Effects
One case has been reported of permanent damage to the retina that apparently was caused by taking uva ursi for a long period of time (3 years). Chemicals in uva ursi are believed to interfere with retinal melanin, the black pigment that helps to disperse light and to protect the eyes. As a result, the individual's vision was decreased and blurred.
In a dose of 6,000 mg (6 grams) or higher taken at one time, uva ursi may cause seizures or cyanosis (a blue tint to the skin caused by a lack of oxygen in the blood). Single doses of 30,000 mg (30 grams) or higher have been reported to cause death.
Other oral preparations that are high in tannin content have been associated with kidney or liver damage. Since uva ursi contains a relatively high percentage of tannins, using it may also present a risk for kidney or liver damage.
A case study of several individuals who regularly used large amounts of an oral product similar to uva ursi for many years, found that they had a higher incidence of tongue and lip cancer than expected. Cancers of the nose and esophagus may also be more likely in people who use large amounts of tannin-containing products for long amounts of time.
Less Severe Side Effects
Taking uva ursi has also been associated with:
- Brownish or greenish urine
- Nausea
- Ringing in the ears
- Upset stomach
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Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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What side effects should I watch for? 
