Uva-Ursi leaf (Arctostaphylos uva ursi)*

Also known as Bearberry, this herb has along history of use for urinary tract infections. A source of the phytochemical arbutin, it is metabolized by the kidneys and excreted as hydroquinone. Hydropuinone is an active antimicrobial especially in alkaline urine. Uva-Ursi is contraindicated for pregnant women.

Cleavers fresh herb (Galium aparine)*

A mild but effective medicine with activity focused on the genito-urinary tract and lymphatics. Cleavers is a non-irritating diuretic used for irritation and inflammation of the bladder, urethra, vas deferens and spermatic cord. It is useful for cystitis, benign prostatic hypertrophy, prostatitis, urethritis and interstitial cystitis. Cleavers is also effective for enlarged lymph nodes in children

Hydrangea root (Hydrangea arborescens)*

A wild relative of the common garden shrub the showy Hydrangea. The root of this plant is indicated for urethritis or cystitis with pain, pain associated with low grade nephritis and to help the pain and ease the passing of urinary calculi (gravel).

Corn Silk fresh silk (Zea mays)*

A soothing, slightly antiseptic diuretic used for inflammation of the urinary tract. It combines well with more active antiseptic diuretics in nephritis, urethritis and cystitis. Use with Ganoderma, Eryngo and Agrimony for interstitial cystitis.

Agrimony fresh herb (Agrimonia eupatorium)*

Shows specific activity for the urinary tract, especially the bladder, urethra and cystic ducts. It is used for inflammation, irritation and burning/scalding urine found in cystitis, urethritis, and interstitial cystitis. It is also soothing to inflammation of the bile ducts and is a mild liver tonic.

Oregon Grape root (Mahonia nervosa)*

A good digestive bitter, liver tonic and cholagogue used to increase digestion and absorption especially of fats and oils. It is indicated for dyspepsia, dysbiosis, jaundice, elevated bilirubin levels, and poor bile formation. Oregon Grape is also anti-bacterial/fungal/viral so it is indicated for urinary tract infections, strep and staph infections, intestinal viruses and skin conditions such as psoriasis and acne.

Bibliography:

Bartram, T.  Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, Grace Pub., 1995.

Boscowitz, MD, G.  Extracts from Lectures on Therapeutics, Eclectic Medical College, NY, 1910.

Gruenwald, J.  PDR for Herbal Medicines, Medical Economic Co., 1998.

Moore, M.  Medicinal Plants of the Pacific West, Red Crane, 1993.

Winston, D.  Herbal Therapeutics Materia Medica notes, HTSBM, 1982-1999.