ARBUTUS OFFICINALE Meaning and
Definition
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Arbutus officinale, commonly known as bearberry or uva-ursi, is a low-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. This plant is native to the northern hemisphere, particularly found in Europe, Asia, and North America.
Bearberry typically grows up to half a meter in height and forms dense, spreading mats with trailing branches. It features leathery, dark green leaves that are elliptical or obovate in shape, and the undersides have a lighter shade. The flowers of Arbutus officinale are small, bell-shaped, and pale pink or white. These flowers bloom in late spring or early summer and give way to small, round red berries that resemble tiny apples. The berries are edible, but they have a mealy texture and a somewhat bitter taste.
In terms of traditional uses, Arbutus officinale has been utilized in herbal medicine for centuries. The leaves of this plant contain various bioactive compounds, including arbutin, hydroquinone, tannins, and flavonoids. These compounds are believed to possess antiseptic, astringent, and diuretic properties. Consequently, bearberry has been used to treat urinary tract infections, reduce inflammation, and alleviate conditions like cystitis and nephritis.
While Arbutus officinale has a history of medicinal use, it is important to note that it should be used under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional. Inappropriate or excessive consumption of bearberry may lead to adverse effects or interactions with certain medications.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ARBUTUS OFFICINALE
- zrbutus officinale
- srbutus officinale
- wrbutus officinale
- qrbutus officinale
- aebutus officinale
- adbutus officinale
- afbutus officinale
- atbutus officinale
- a5butus officinale
- a4butus officinale
- arvutus officinale
- arnutus officinale
- arhutus officinale
- argutus officinale
- arbytus officinale
- arbhtus officinale
- arbjtus officinale
- arbitus officinale
- arb8tus officinale
- arb7tus officinale
Etymology of ARBUTUS OFFICINALE
The word "Arbutus" is derived from Latin, from the word "arbor" which means "tree" or "shrub". "Officinale" is also derived from Latin, from the word "officina" which means "workplace" or "factory". In taxonomy, the term "officinale" is used to indicate that a species has some kind of medicinal or commercial use. Therefore, "Arbutus officinale" can be interpreted as "the tree or shrub with medicinal properties".
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