Products
Cranberries are commercially available, among other things, as juice, in the form of capsules and as drinking granules. The berries are also used to prepare jams, jellies, compotes and spirits. Caution: cranberries are not the same as cranberries.
Stem plant
Lingonberry, from the heather family (Ericaceae), is an evergreen shrub native to Eurasia, often found in the Alps in many countries. There are also large occurrences in Scandinavia.
Medicinal drug
The lingonberry (Vitis idaeae fructus) is usually used as a medicinal raw material, and more rarely the lingonberry leaves (Vitis idaeae folium).
Ingredients
The ingredients of the berries include:
- Polyphenols, flavonoids, A-type proanthocyanidins, anthocyanidins.
- Organic acids such as benzoic acid and ascorbic acid – these act as natural preservatives.
- Tannins
- Vitamins, minerals
Effects
Preparations of cranberries have antioxidant, astringent, antimicrobial, health-promoting and anti-adhesive properties. Proanthocyanidins inhibit the attachment of bacteria to the urothelium of the urinary bladder. How effective cranberries actually are for the application area of cystitis is controversial.
Indications
Preparations of cranberries are taken for the prevention and treatment of cystitis. Cranberry jams, sauces and compotes are often served with game dishes.
Contraindications
Refer to the package insert for complete information.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include indigestion.