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.
