Cranberry

Common Name Cranberry
Nature Perennial evergreen shrub with berries
Scientific Name Vaccinium macrocarpon
Source Natural
Part Used Fruit (berry)
Native Location North America

  • Benefits

    • Urinary Tract Health: Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins that help prevent harmful bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining, supporting urinary health. (1)
    • Antioxidant Protection: Rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids and vitamin C that help protect cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage. (2)
    • Heart Health Support: May help support cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel function and reducing oxidative stress. (3) 
    • Immune Support: Contains vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds that support immune system function and overall wellness. (4)
    • Digestive Health: Cranberry polyphenols may help support beneficial gut bacteria and contribute to digestive health. (5)

  • Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)

    Cranberry is a tart red berries native to North America and traditionally used by Indigenous communities for food and medicinal purposes, particularly for urinary health and wound care. It is rich in proanthocyanidins, flavonoids, vitamin C, and other antioxidants. These compounds help prevent harmful bacteria, especially E. coli, from attaching to the urinary tract lining, reducing the risk of infections. Due to these properties, cranberry extracts are widely used in nutraceuticals to support urinary tract health, immune function, and overall wellness. (6)

Scientific Research and Studies

research and science

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Prevention

Study Design: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluated the effects of cranberry juice consumption on the prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections.

Findings: Participants who consumed cranberry products experienced a significant reduction in the recurrence of urinary tract infections compared with those receiving a placebo. The effect was attributed to cranberry proanthocyanidins preventing bacterial adhesion to the urinary tract lining. (7)

Antioxidant and Cardiovascular Effects

Study Design: A controlled clinical study investigated the impact of cranberry juice consumption on antioxidant status and cardiovascular risk markers in adults.

Findings: Regular cranberry consumption increased antioxidant capacity and improved markers associated with cardiovascular health, including reduced oxidative stress and improved endothelial function. (8)

Antimicrobial Activity Against Urinary Pathogens

Study Design: Laboratory and clinical research evaluated cranberry polyphenols for their ability to inhibit bacterial adhesion in the urinary tract.

Findings: Cranberry compounds, particularly A-type proanthocyanidins, significantly reduced the ability of E. coli bacteria to adhere to urinary tract cells, supporting their role in UTI prevention. (9)

Cranberries for treating urinary tract infections

View Article

Cranberry: Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Activity and Impact on Human Health: Overview

View Article

Healthy Hearts Benefit from Daily Cranberry Consumption

View Article

Rutgers Researcher Discusses the Health Benefits of Cranberries

View Article

Impact of Cranberries on Gut Microbiota and Cardiometabolic Health

View Article

Overview of Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)

View Article

The Effect of Cranberry Juice Consumption on the Recurrence of Urinary Tract Infection

View Article

Effects of cranberry juice consumption on antioxidant status and biomarkers

View Article

Cranberry Polyphenols and Prevention against Urinary Tract Infections

View Article
  • Disclaimer: The information provided is based on scientific research and general knowledge and none of the above statements are evaluated by FDA or EFSA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.