Condition
Treatment Support
urinary antiseptic
Application
tablets, capsules, juice (unsweetened)
Cranberry
(Vaccinium macrocarpon)
Also know as Low-bush cranberry
Botanical Information
A low-trailing plant in the huckleberry family with red berries growing in wet, boggy areas. Commonly cultivated in Oregon, Washington, and the northeastern U.S.
Working with Cranberry
Part(s) Used
Fruit Juice
Herb Forms
Juice, juice concentrate powder, capsule, tablet
Christopher Hobbs:
Cranberries have a long history of use in the prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections. Cranberry juice has been proven effective in bladder infections by acidifying the urine and rendering the bacteria unable to adhere to the bladder lining. The juice has also been used for kidney stones (and their prevention) and chronic urethritis. Cranberry helps deodorize the urine and is useful for incontinence.
Cranberry has a taste of SOUR, SWEET and a temperature of COOL.”
Historical Uses
Historically, cranberries have been used by Native American populations for a variety of purposes, including treating wounds, urinary conditions, and infections. They were also used as a food preservative due to their high acidity and were even incorporated into dye and poultices.
Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists and Naturopaths
Today, herbalists and naturopaths often recommend cranberries, particularly cranberry juice or extract, as a natural remedy to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). The compounds in cranberries, particularly proanthocyanidins, are thought to inhibit bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls, thus reducing the likelihood of infection. Cranberry is also sometimes used for general kidney and bladder health, though evidence for these uses is limited.
Chemistry
Cranberries contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including proanthocyanidins, flavonoids, and organic acids (such as benzoic acid). Proanthocyanidins are primarily responsible for the anti-adhesive properties that are thought to help prevent bacterial adherence in the urinary tract.
Pharmacology
Proanthocyanidins in cranberries have been shown to block certain bacteria, particularly E. coli, from binding to the walls of the urinary tract. This anti-adhesive effect can potentially prevent infections but does not work as a treatment for existing infections. Cranberries also have antioxidant properties, largely due to their high vitamin C content and flavonoids.
Clinical Trials
Studies on cranberry’s efficacy in preventing UTIs have produced mixed results. Some studies suggest a modest benefit in preventing recurrent UTIs, particularly in women with a history of UTIs. However, other research has found minimal to no effect. The inconsistency may stem from variations in study design, cranberry product potency, and participant characteristics.
Summary
Cranberry remains a popular preventive measure for UTIs, with mixed evidence from clinical trials. While it offers some potential as a preventive treatment, it is not considered effective for treating active infections.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Cranberries are generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts, either as juice or in capsule form. However, excessive cranberry consumption can increase the risk of kidney stones in susceptible individuals due to the high oxalate content. Cranberry may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, and individuals on warfarin should consult their healthcare provider before taking cranberry supplements. Dosage can vary based on the form of cranberry and the concentration of active compounds.
Conditions treated with Cranberry
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
