Uses of Cranberry Concentrate

Cranberries, also known as Vaccinium macrocarpon, are a native plant to North America and have been used by Native Americans as a source of both food and medicine. The plant is related to both blueberries and bilberry, and is sold today as a sweet fruit drink as well as a medicinal herbal product. In addition to the therapeutic value of cranberries, they are also highly nutritious, being a good source of vitamin C, antioxidants, manganese and copper.

Urinary Tract Infections

Cranberry is used for the prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections, as antioxidant chemicals found within cranberry help to prevent adhesion of bacteria to the wall of the urinary tract. Bacteria and other pathogens are then flushed out of the body through the urine. Amy B. Howell, PhD, published findings in "The Journal of the American Medical Association" in 2002 that showed cranberry prevented the adhesion of 80 percent of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, such as E. coli, to the urinary tract.

Kidney Stones

Cranberry can be used in the prevention of some types of kidney stones. Igo Light published research in the scientific journal "Urology" back in 1973 that showed cranberry helped to reduce the presence of calcium in the urine by up to 50 percent, thus reducing the risk of kidney stones made from calcium salts. In a more recent study, Matthew Getman from the University of Texas published findings in "The Journal of Urology" in 2002 that showed conflicting evidence, suggesting cranberries actually increased the risk of kidney stones made from calcium oxalate and uric acid salts.

Antioxidants

Cranberries are a rich source of antioxidants such as vitamin C, proanthocyanidin, flavonols and polyphenols. These chemicals roam the body once ingested and protect us from free radicals. In a 2007 review of scientific research, Catherine Neto from the University of Massachusetts published findings in "The Journal of Nutrition" revealing that antioxidants in cranberry extract helped to prevent growth of breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer. These antioxidants also protect the heart from cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis and oxidative cell damage.

Dental Health

The role that cranberry plays in preventing the adhesion of bacteria to the urinary tract also naturally extends to other parts of the body, in particular to the mouth, teeth and gums. E. Weiss from Tel Aviv University published findings in "The Journal of the American Dental Association" in 1998 showing that cranberry helped to prevent the adhesion and growth of harmful plaque-causing bacteria in the mouth. Sugar-containing commercial cranberry juices are not recommended for dental health; however, sugar-free cranberry concentrate may prove useful for the prevention and treatment of gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Warnings

Cranberries may be contraindicated when used alongside other prescribed medications. Readers are advised to consult their healthcare professional before using cranberry products.