History

    A bushy, evergreen shrub with small, leathery leaves, Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi) was recognized as an important herb by European herbalists of the 13th century. Marco Polo first discovered this herb's uses when in China, and Kublai Khan learned of it during his invasions.

When the early North American colonists arrived in the new country, they found the Indians had independently discovered the many uses of Uva Ursi, which derives its name from the Latin Uva or "grape" and Ursus, meaning "bear" since the fruit is rough and unpleasant and unpleasant and said to only appeal to bears. Another name for Uva Ursi is Berberry or Bear's Grape. It is the leaves that are most often employed by man for their beneficial properties.