cranberry extract

Cranberry extract is a dietary supplement derived from the fruit of the plant *Vaccinium macrocarpon* (American cranberry). It is primarily used for the prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs), with evidence suggesting it can reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs in women by 25–30%[3][4][5]. The proposed mechanism involves proanthocyanidins and other compounds in cranberries that inhibit the adhesion of uropathogenic *Escherichia coli* to uroepithelial cells by acting as receptor analogs and altering bacterial fimbriae[6]. Other suggested uses include reducing urinary odor in incontinent patients and possible roles in cardiovascular disease risk reduction; however scientific support for these indications is limited[2][5][8]. Cranberry extract is available as juice concentrate or capsules/tablets. It is not considered effective for treating active UTIs. Adverse effects are rare but may include gastrointestinal symptoms at high doses or increased risk of kidney stones with concentrated tablets[5].

Brand names

American cranberryblack cranberryEuropean cranberrylow cranberrymossberryOxycoccus macrocarpustrailing swamp cranberryVaccinium eduleVaccinium erythrocarpumvaccinium macrocarponVaccinium occycoccusVaccinium vitis

Other names

Vaccinium macrocarpon AitonArandano AmericanoArandano rtepadorCranberryGrosse moosbeereKranbeereTsuru-kokemomo