Ericaceae
Pipsissewa
Chimaphila umbellata
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: North America, Europe, Asia
Also known as: Prince's Pine, Ground Holly, Bitter Wintergreen, King's Cure
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Leaf
Therapeutic Uses
Urinary tract infections, cystitis, urethritis, kidney stones, rheumatic conditions. Similar mechanism to uva ursi (arbutin) but milder and more pleasant tasting.
Herbal Actions
Urinary antiseptic, diuretic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, antifungal
Active Constituents
Arbutin (hydroquinone glycoside), ericolin, chimaphilin (quinone — antifungal), flavonoids, tannins, methyl salicylate
Preparation Methods
☕ Herbal Tea🏺 Tincture
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 1–2 tsp dried herb per 250ml, steep 15 min, 3x daily with high water intake |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 25% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Gentler than uva ursi — suitable for longer use. Alkaline urine required for arbutin activation. Combine with goldenrod for comprehensive UTI support. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Avoid in pregnancy. Avoid in kidney disease. Limit courses to 4 weeks.
Side Effects: GI upset. Green urine (harmless). Hydroquinone toxicity with prolonged use.