It is from North America and grows in bogs. The ripe fruit is used. This anti-adherence action renders the bacteria harmless in the urinary tract. 3 Cranberry has been shown to reduce bacteria levels in the urinary bladders of older women significantly better than placebo, which may help to prevent future infections. 5 Other preliminary studies in humans suggest cranberry can help people with urostomies and enterocystoplasties to keep them clear of mucus buildup.
Cranberry concentrate has no known side effects and is safe to use during pregnancy and lactation.
Cranberry should not be used as a substitute for antibiotics during an acute urinary tract infection. Certain medications may interact with cranberry. Refer to the drug interactions summary for a list of those medications. For the convenience of the reader, the information in the table listing the supplements for particular conditions is also categorized. Potential use for the treatment of urinary tract infections.