Cranberry Overview Cranberry refers to the pinkish red fruits of a plant native to parts of North America. It is therefore called American Cranberry or bog cranberry. These berries are used to produce many food products including beverages as well as dietary supplements. They are ingested in the form of teas, tablets or extracts. Cranberry is a major commercial crop in many states of the United States. The plant grows well in low wetlands and the vines grow well when they are watered regularly. The natural juice of Cranberry is tart and sugar is added to reduce his tartness. 
How was Canberry Used in The Past? Historically, cranberry leaves and fruits were used for a variety of problems including the topical treatment of wounds and sores. They are supposed to have mild anti-inflammatory properties that make them effective against mild skin wounds and infections. Cranberry also helps improve digestion and was therefore used in mild cases of diarrhea and stomach ailments. The fruits are supposed to be good for people suffering from diabetes because they help reduce the level of glucose in the blood. Use of Cranberry Today
In recent times, alternative medicine is trying to make use of Cranberry to fight infections in the urinary tract. Cranberry is reported to have a rich supply of antioxidant which makes it an effective anti-cancer herb. Cranberry is also used to fight dental plaque and mild gum infections. However, many of the commercially available versions of the juice are high in artificial sugars and coloring agents and may actually cause teeth problems than solve them. The main benefit of Cranberry seems to be the presence of certain components that prevent bacteria like the E.Coli from clinging to the walls of the urinary tract. Thus by flushing out these toxins, they help keep the urinary tract free of infections. Cranberry juice is also supposed to reduce the levels of calcium deposit in the urine, and this may help prevent formation of kidney stones. Cranberry Research Certain clinical and laboratory research has shown that Cranberry also has a mildly antifungal activity and quite a strong antiviral activity. In patients suffering from certain conditions, cranberry juice also increases the absorption of vitamin B12. Patients who have undergone urostomy may often suffer from skin irritation at these sites. This is because of the high pH levels in the urine. Drinking cranberry juice is supposed to lower urine pH and therefore prevent skin irritation. Traditionally Cranberry was used to fight blood disorders, cancers, gall bladder stones, influenza, liver disorders, scurvy and rheumatoid arthritis. Cranberry also helps flush out toxins from the body by increasing the flow of urine (diuresis). Clinical trials also show that drinking Cranberry juice may increase the ability to recall and improve one’s memory. Cranberry Cautions Cranberry is not associated with any severe side effects. People with allergy or hypersensitivity to cranberries and blueberries should not use it. People with glucose intolerance or diabetes should take in sugar-free cranberry juice for proper effects. Very high doses may lead to mild diarrhea and stomach distress. Some studies show that women who have cranberry juice regularly may show an increased tendency towards the possibility of vaginal yeast infections.
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