Hi David, I have some general questions pertaining to uva ursi and other herbs high in tannins. 1. How long is typically considered "long-term" use for uva ursi? Is it the same for other herbs high in tannins as well, or do they all differ? 2. Are the negative affects from long-term usage of high-tannin herbs always noticeable to the individual or could it be causing hidden damage/problems internally that are hard to detect? 3. Can certain herbs be added to off-set uva ursi's harshness if used long-term? Thanks!

1. it depends on the level of tannins, Uva Ursi had moderate tannin levels, while Oak bark has very high levels of tannins, so long term for Uva -ursi is weeks while Oak bark it might be a few days. 2. Tannins can interfere with mineral absorption (especially iron) and alkaloidal medications, worsen or cause yin deficiency (dryness), constipation and gastric irritation. 3. I never use Uva- Ursi long term, i.e. more than a few weeks, there are better herbs for UTI’s. Yes, you can combine Uva-Ursi with other herbs but depending on what and who you are treating, the other herbs will change. Uva-ursi tends too cause gastric upset and turns the urine a greenish color (not a health problem, but many people feel uncomfortable with this)