Cranberry, or Vaccinium macrocarpon, is an evergreen shrub commonly found in North America. Red-black berries harvested during the summer months are used in foods and herbal products. Extracts from cranberry leaves also possess some medicinal values. All the health benefits of cranberry supplements, however, have not been proven scientifically so it should be used with caution to avoid possible adverse reactions and drug interactions.
Composition
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, compounds called proanthocyanidins are responsible for its vibrant color as well as its antioxidant properties. Cranberry fruits and its supplements are also rich in antioxidant vitamin C, which also contributes to its medicinal value.
Uses
Cranberry supplements can help prevent urinary tract infections and dental plaques. They may also prevent and treat Helicobacter pylori infections that may lead to stomach ulcers, says the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Cranberry supplements prevent urinary tract infections by preventing the bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. They also reduce the pH of the urine and hence, reduce the skin irritation in patients undergoing invasive procedures such as urostomy to correct urine flow. The antioxidant components of cranberry, including vitamin C and proanthocyanidins, also help stabilize the free oxygen radicals formed as a result of various metabolic processes in the body, thereby preventing DNA damage and diseases such as cancer and heart disease. MayoClinic.com also states that cranberry extracts demonstrate some antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties and may help treat and manage infections, although there is no clinical evidence to prove this.
Dosage
The extracts from ripe cranberry fruits are made into capsules, tablets and syrups and although there is no scientific data to determine the exact dosage of cranberry supplements for various conditions, the UMMC states that a standard dosage consists of about 6 capsules per day containing 300 to 400 mg of extract. The supplements, however, should not be used for children under 18 years of age.
Side Effects
Cranberry supplements are generally safe to use but should not be used by pregnant and lactating women as the effect of these supplements on a fetus and newborn baby has not been studied. MedlinePlus also warns that cranberry tablets may boost the urine oxalate levels by 43 percent and increase the risk of kidney stones significantly. Individuals allergic to aspirin may also be sensitive to cranberry supplements. Cranberry supplements may also interfere with anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin.
Precautions
As stated earlier, it is important to talk to a doctor before using cranberry supplements for its medicinal value. Also, the production of most supplements is not regulated and hence, it is important to make sure that cranberry supplements are pure and of high quality.
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