Cranberry

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What does Cranberry do?

Cranberry is a medicinal herb that some people take as a preventative and treatment for urinary tract infections. There are also reports that it may be helpful in preventing and dissolving kidney and gallstones. It is considered a very good source of vitamin C.  It can be taken as a capsule, pill, tea or juice (unsweetened).

Should my health care professional be advised before I take Cranberry medicinally?

They should be consulted first if you have any of these conditions: If you have an urinary tract infection or the symptoms associated with such. If you have kidney or gall stones or the symptoms associated with such. If you are taking diuretics. If you are currently taking medication to treat a bladder infection. If you are currently taking a medication to treat kidney or gall stones.

Are there other times my health care professional needs to be advised before I take Cranberry medicinally?

They should be consulted first if you are: Pregnant or trying to get pregnant Breast-feeding If you plan to administer this herb to a child

How should I take this herb?

Take Cranberry capsules or tablets by mouth. Swallow the capsules with a large drink of water. For the best bioavailability and if you have a sensitive stomach, it is often recommended that you take Cranberry as a juice. Sugar in juices or teas should be avoided. If a sweetener is needed, try using apple or grape juice. You can take Cranberry with or without food.

What should the dosage be?

Lengths of administration are usually based on the severity of the symptoms and the type of problem. If cranberry is administered medicinally is usually recommended to consult your health care physician first. Common dosages are as follows: Tablets/Capsules/Teas: 1-3 grams herb, 2-3x daily Juice: 16 ounces/day Note: Long term use at medicinal quantities is not recommended.

What side effects may I notice from taking Cranberry?

Side effects from correctly administered Cranberry usage are thought to be rare. Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (stop usage and report it to your health care professional if they are continuing or bothersome): Diarrhea (with higher dosages) Allergic reactions

What do I need to watch out for with Cranberry?

Read labels carefully before purchasing . There have been reported cases of herbal products being sold that did not contain active ingredients (the herbs active constituents) needed to be of any therapeutic value. Buying a standardized product when purchasing capsules or tablets may reduce the possibility of this occurrence. Look also for products that are clearly labeled with the ingredients contained and amounts.

Where can I keep my herbal product?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30°C (59 and 86°F). The raw dried herb should be stored in airtight, dry, and light resistant containers. If there is an expiration date listed on the herbal product, throw away the unused portion after the expiration date. Juice or fresh cranberries should be kept refrigerated.

Can you tell me a little more about Cranberry?

Cranberry is originally indigenous to the United States. It grows naturally in mountain forests, streamsides and boggy regions from Alaska through the Southern States to Tennessee. It is now widly cultivated for commercial markets. It is a small evergreen that likes to grow in moist, humus rich acidic soils. It can grow up to 12 ft high. Its many leaves are three lobed. The flowers are pink to purple and formed in clusters with the inner flowers being fertile. It blooms from late spring to late summer. The fruit are small bright red berries. It's usage for treatment of urinary infections dates back to studies conducted by 19th century chemists. It has gained increasing popularity since that time as an effective preventative and treatment.

What are the actions that have been associated with the herb?

Generally, Cranberry is thought to prevent bacteria (such as E. coli) from adhering to the lining of the bladder and urethra. This action reduces the possibility of infections. . It may reduce the amounts of calcium in urine thus reducing the chances of kidney stones developing. It also increases the acid content of urine. Cranberry contains a natural anti-bacterial known as hippuric acid. It should be noted, however, that the hippuric acid in Cranberry may not be present in sufficient levels to have any effect.

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