Cranberry prevents E. coli, the most common
cause of Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and recurrent UTIs, from
adhering to the cells lining the wall of the bladder. This anti-adherence
action renders the bacteria harmless in the urinary tract. The constituents
in cranberry responsible for this anti-adherence activity have yet
to be identified.
History
Cranberry has been used to prevent kidney
stones and "bladder gravel" as well as to remove toxins
from the blood. Cranberry has long been recommended for persons with
recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Remedies
For
Useful for the treatment of:
Urinary tract infection
Dosage
People often take one capsule or tablet of a concentrated cranberry
juice extract two to four times per day. Several glasses (16 ounces
total) of a high-quality cranberry juice (not the cocktail) each
day can approximate the effect of the cranberry concentrate.
Safety
There are no known side effects with cranberry concentrate, and
it is safe for use during pregnancy and lactation. Cranberry should
not be used as a substitute for antibiotics during an acute urinary
tract infection.