| Cranberry |
| Parts Used The
ripe fruit |
|
| Common Uses Prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections |
|
How Cranberry
Works
A large percentage of urinary tract infections are caused by
the bacteria Escherichia Coli, that most of us know as E Coli. For an infection to develop
the bacteria must stick to the cells lining the wall of bladder. Cranberry prevents E Coli
from sticking and an infection is therefore less likely to occur. |
|
Suggested Use
One capsule (300-400 mg) should be taken morning and night. Be
sure that you drink plenty of water throughout the day. A quality cranberry juice is also
a good idea, but be sure to read the label carefully first - you want to be drinking
cranberry juice not sugar! |
|
| Side
Effects There are no known side effects. |
|
Safety Issues
There are no contraindications to taking cranberry while you
are pregnant or lactating. There are no known interactions with antibiotics or other
drugs. |
| It should be noted however that in
the case of an acute urinary tract infection, cranberry is not a substitute for
antibiotics. |
|
The History of
Cranberry
Native Americans first introduced the cranberry to the
pilgrims. It was used then, both as a food and for medicinal purposes to prevent kidney
stones and to cleanse the blood. |
| The beginning of this century saw
the first research into cranberry as a preventative and cure for urinary tract infections.
It has not looked back since. |
