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At a glance
| Quick fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Uva ursi, bear’s grape, kinnikinnick |
| Part used | Leaf |
| Key compound | Arbutin, which the body converts to hydroquinone compounds |
| Role in FemiCore | Herbal blend; traditional urinary support |
| Amount in FemiCore | Not disclosed (part of a 350 mg blend) |
| Evidence level | Traditional use (EU herbal monograph) |
| Main cautions | Short-term use only; not with kidney disorders; avoid in pregnancy |
What is bearberry?
Bearberry is a low-growing evergreen shrub found across cooler regions of North America, Europe and Asia. Its small, leathery leaves have been used for urinary complaints in folk medicine for centuries. The berries are edible but bland, and bears are said to enjoy them, which gave the plant its names.
How bearberry is thought to work
The leaves contain arbutin. After it is swallowed, arbutin is broken down and its compounds, related to hydroquinone, are excreted in urine, where they may have antimicrobial effects on bacteria in the bladder. Bearberry also contains tannins, which can be astringent. Traditional herbal references suggest it works best when urine is not acidic.
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What regulators and research say
The European Medicines Agency’s herbal committee concluded that bearberry leaf preparations can be used for treating symptoms of mild, recurrent lower urinary tract infections in adult women, based on long-standing traditional use rather than clinical trials. It also set clear limits:
- For adult women only
- Not to be used for more than one week
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than four days or get worse
- A doctor should rule out serious conditions first
- Not to be taken by women with kidney disorders
The seller’s reference list includes the published protocol of a clinical trial (BRUMI) designed to compare bearberry with antibiotics for acute uncomplicated cystitis. A protocol describes planned research; it is not evidence of results.
Studied use vs FemiCore
This is FemiCore’s most important ingredient tension. Bearberry is traditionally used for short courses during symptoms, whereas FemiCore is designed to be taken daily for months. The amount in each capsule is not disclosed and may well be small, given that it shares a 350 mg blend with three other herbs. Still, anyone considering long-term use should mention bearberry to their doctor.
Side effects
- Nausea, vomiting or stomach upset, partly due to tannins
- Urine may turn a greenish-brown color, which is harmless but can be surprising
- Concerns about long-term exposure to hydroquinone-related compounds are the reason for short-term limits
Who should avoid bearberry
- People with kidney disorders
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Children and adolescents
- Anyone who has had liver problems, unless a doctor agrees
Interactions
Strong human interaction data are lacking. Traditional advice is to avoid taking bearberry with products that make urine acidic. Because FemiCore also contains berberine, which has more established interaction concerns, a pharmacist check is wise for anyone on medicines. See drug interactions.
Bearberry in other products
Bearberry also appears in some herbal “urinary” teas and multi-herb kidney or bladder blends. If you already use one of these, avoid stacking them with FemiCore, because the combined amount of arbutin could become significant. Check labels for “uva ursi” or “Arctostaphylos uva-ursi.”
Should bearberry worry you?
For most healthy women, a small amount in a multi-ingredient capsule is unlikely to cause problems in the short term. The concern is about duration and kidney health. A reasonable approach is to use FemiCore for a defined trial period, such as the 60-day guarantee window, review it with your clinician, and avoid open-ended use without medical input. If you notice stomach upset, stop and seek advice.
Practical advice for FemiCore users
Tell your doctor that FemiCore contains bearberry, especially if you plan to take it for more than a few weeks, have a history of kidney problems, or take several medicines. Stop and seek advice if you develop nausea, stomach pain or changes in how much you urinate.
Bottom line
Bearberry is a respected traditional urinary herb, but its regulatory use is short-term and symptom-focused. Its presence in a daily supplement is the main reason we advise discussing long-term FemiCore use with a clinician, particularly for anyone with kidney concerns. Read the full side effects page for more.
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Packages start at $49 per bottle when you choose six, with free US shipping and a 60-day money-back guarantee from the seller. Check the latest price and stock on the seller’s secure checkout.
Check availability & price →Paid link: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Sold by the seller via BuyGoods, not by this site.
Frequently asked questions
Is bearberry safe to take every day?
European regulators advise against using bearberry for more than one week. FemiCore’s amount is undisclosed, so discuss long-term daily use with your doctor.
Why does bearberry change urine color?
Its compounds are excreted in urine and can turn it greenish-brown in some people. This is generally harmless.
Can I take bearberry with kidney disease?
No. The European Medicines Agency states that people with kidney disorders should not take bearberry leaf preparations.
Sources
Last reviewed and updated: October 20, 2026.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.