The Basics
What is Uva Ursi / Arctostaphylos uva-ursi?
Used primarily for urinary tract disorders, including infections of the kidney, bladder, and urethra; swelling of the urinary tract; increased urination; painful urination; and urine that contains excess uric acid or other acids. Also used for constipation and a lung condition called bronchitis.
Brand names for Uva Ursi / Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Na
How Uva Ursi / Arctostaphylos uva-ursi is classified
Complementary Therapies, Phytotherapy, Plants, Medicinal, Anti-Infective Agents – Urinary
Uva Ursi / Arctostaphylos uva-ursi During Pregnancy
Uva Ursi / Arctostaphylos uva-ursi pregnancy category
Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Uva Ursi / Arctostaphylos uva-ursi while pregnant
N/A
Taking Uva Ursi / Arctostaphylos uva-ursi While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Uva Ursi / Arctostaphylos uva-ursi?
Uva ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) leaves contain arbutin, which is hydrolyzed to hydroquinone. Uva ursi has no specific lactation-related uses, but is most often used as a urinary antiseptic. No data exist on the excretion of any components of uva ursi into breastmilk or on the safety and efficacy of uva ursi in nursing mothers or infants. Uva ursi is generally considered to be contraindicated during breastfeeding because of a lack of data and its potential toxicity.[1][2]
Maternal / infant drug levels
Uva ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) leaves contain arbutin, which is hydrolyzed to hydroquinone. Uva ursi has no specific lactation-related uses, but is most often used as a urinary antiseptic. No data exist on the excretion of any components of uva ursi into breastmilk or on the safety and efficacy of uva ursi in nursing mothers or infants. Uva ursi is generally considered to be contraindicated during breastfeeding because of a lack of data and its potential toxicity.[1][2]
Possible effects of Uva Ursi / Arctostaphylos uva-ursi on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Uva Ursi / Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
(Urinary Antiseptic) Methenamine Hippurate, Methenamine Mandelate, Nitrofurantoin.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Kopec K. Herbal medications and breastfeeding. J Hum Lact. 1999;15:157-61. PMID: 10578793
2. Nice F, Coghlan RJ, Birmingham BT. Which herbals are safe to take while breastfeeding? Here’s a guide to popular herbs and their potential risk to nurslings. US Pharm. 2000;25:1-9.
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
