The arbutus plant stands with the bear in Madrid’s shield, the capital of Spain: this is the city’s symbol. Dioscorides already knew about the plant in the 1st century A.D. and also by the Roman naturalist Plinius, who said about it, “Unum edo” (I eat one), from which the species Latin name, undo, was born.
The fruits of the arbutus plant can ferment when still on the tree and then contain up to 0.5 percent alcohol. This fact gave birth to a curious Hispanic name for this tree: “borrachin,” which means “drunkard.”
Arbutus Plant Scientific Facts
- French: Arbre aux fraises.
- Spanish: Madrono.
- Environment: Holm oak woods and low mountains of Mediterranean Europe, also known in some regions of Central and South America.
- Description: This is an evergreen shrub of the Ericaceae family, growing from two to three meters high. Its white or green flowers grow in clusters. The fruit is a berry, red when ripe.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The fruits, the leaves, and the bark.
Healing Properties and Uses
The fruit of the arbutus plant contains sugar, organic acids, pectin, and tannin. It has astringent properties, and it is not recommended to abuse it. The leaves and the tree’s bark contain up to 36 percent tannin, which gives them strong astringent properties, and arbutin, a glycoside with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties on the urinary system. They are used for urinary infections, cystitis, renal calculi, colic, diarrhea, and dysentery.
WARNING! The ripe fruit of arbutus can achieve a level of alcoholic content since the fermentation process can start even while they are still hanging from the tree. Because of this fact, and given their astringent properties, not more than a handful of berries per day should be eaten.
How to use Arbutus
- The fruit is consumed fresh or in jellies or marmalades.
- Decoction with dry leaves and bark, 30 grams per liter of water. Drink two or three cups daily for urinary afflictions and four or five for diarrhea.
Frequently Asked Question
I’ve heard the arbutus plant can help the urinary tract. How does this work?
Arbutus, particularly the leaves, contain a compound called arbutin. Arbutin, when metabolized, breaks down into hydroquinone, which has antiseptic and diuretic effects. This means it can help flush out bacteria within the urinary tract, potentially supporting conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Can the arbutus plant help with kidney issues?
Along with its urinary tract benefits, the diuretic properties and potential antibacterial effects of arbutus might offer some relief for those with mild kidney stones or inflammation. However, it’s essential to see a doctor before using arbutus for severe kidney conditions.
Does the arbutus plant have any antioxidant properties?
Yes, arbutus contains antioxidants like tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. Antioxidants safeguard cells from harm produced by free radicals, potentially lowering the likelihood of chronic illnesses such as heart disease and some malignancies
I have some digestive troubles. Can the arbutus plant provide relief?
The tannins in arbutus have astringent properties, which can help tighten and soothe tissues. Historically, this has been used for mild cases of diarrhea. It’s also been suggested as a potential support for mild inflammation in the digestive tract.
Are there any topical benefits to the arbutus plant?
The arbutin in arbutus is sometimes used in skincare products for its potential as a skin-lightening agent. Some studies suggest it can help with hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Can the arbutus plant improve blood sugar levels?
Preliminary animal studies show some promise in arbutus, which has the potential to help manage blood sugar levels.
Does the form of arbutus matter (tea, capsules, etc.)?
The effectiveness of arbutus can vary depending on the form. Arbutus teas from the leaves are a traditional preparation. At the same time, capsules or extracts may offer a more concentrated dose of arbutin.
Is there a recommended dosage of the arbutus plant?
There’s no established universal dosage for arbutus. Dosages typically vary depending on the condition being addressed. It’s crucial to see a healthcare professional for personalized dosage recommendations.
Are there any potential side effects to be aware of?
At high doses or with prolonged use, arbutus can potentially cause stomach upset, nausea, or, in more severe cases, liver toxicity. This highlights the importance of moderation and professional guidance.
Can everyone use arbutus safely?
Arbutus is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to an absence of safety data. Additionally, anyone with liver or kidney problems should avoid arbutus without first consulting their doctor.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 563. Print.
- Carvalho, M., Jerónimo, C., Valentão, P., Andrade, P. B., & Silva, B. M. (2010). Arbutus unedo L. and its benefits on human health. Journal of food and nutrition research, 49(2), 53-65. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/235662925_Arbutus_unedo_L_and_its_benefits_on_human_health
- Neto, C. C. (2007). Cranberry and its phytochemicals: a review of in vitro anticancer studies. The Journal of nutrition, 137(1), 186S-193S. [invalid URL removed] (Note: potential overlap in active compounds, but more research is needed specific to arbutus)
- Oliveira, I., Coelho, V., Baltasar, R., Pereira, J. A., & Baptista, P. (2011). Scavenging capacity of strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) leaves on free radicals. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 49(7), 1504-1511. [invalid URL removed]
- Gruenwald, J., Brendler, T., & Jaenicke, C. (2000). PDR for herbal medicines (pp. 30-32). Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics.
- Katsambas, A. D., & Antoniou, C. (1995). Arbutin and its cosmetic applications. Clinics in dermatology, 13(4), 347-348. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7554515/
- Jouad, H., Maghrani, M., Eddouks, M., & Haloui, M. (2002). Hypoglycaemic effect of aqueous extract of Arbutus unedo in non-diabetic and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Journal of Herbal Medicine and Toxicology, 14(3). (Note: Animal study, more human-specific research needed)