Health Benefits of Cranberries

Scientific name: Vaccinium macrocarpon
Other names: Bog cranberry, Atoca
Part used: Fruit

Origins & Properties

Cranberry can be found throughout the Northern Hemisphere, especially in cooler regions.

The cranberry is a perennial shrub from the family of Ericaceae. Other members of this family are the blueberry, the salmonberry, and the smaller European cousin of the cranberry with a similar taste, the lingonberry.

Common Uses

Traditionally, cranberry products have been used to prevent and treat urinary tract infections (UTI).

The mechanism is not fully understood but many in vitro tests (test in the test tube) have shown that the proanthocyanidins contained in cranberries can inhibit the bacterium E. coli, which is responsible for 70-80% of all UTIs from adhering to the cells that line the bladder.

Benefits

• Urinary tract: Prevents and treats urinary tract infections
• Antioxidant: Helps nourish the skin and make it more supple
• Boost immunity: High proanthocyanidins and Vitamin C stimulate the immune system
• Boost the good cholesterol: Helps decrease the level of bad cholesterol in the blood and promote heart health
• Atherosclerosis: Anti-inflammatory effects of tannins can be of benefit for the natural prevention of atherosclerosis.

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