What Cranberry Is Used For 

• Historically,  cranberry fruits and leaves were used for a variety of problems, such as wounds, urinary disorders, diarrhea, diabetes, stomach ailments, and liver problems. 
• Recently,  cranberry products have been used in the hope of preventing or treating  urinary tract infections or Helicobacter pylori infections that can lead  to stomach ulcers, or  to prevent dental plaque.  Cranberry has also been reported to have antioxidant and anticancer activity. 

• Some studies testing cranberry products  for their ability to prevent  urinary tract infections have shown promise. These studies have generally been small  in size,  and some were  not randomized or controlled; therefore,  the results are  not conclusive. 
• Cranberry products  have not been adequately tested to see if they  can be used to help treat  an existing urinary tract infection. 
• Research shows that components found  in cranberry may prevent bacteria,  such as E. coli, from clinging  to the cells along the walls  of the urinary tract  and causing infection. However,  the mechanism of action  of cranberry is not fully understood. 
• NCCAM,  the National Institute  of Diabetes  and Digestive  and Kidney Diseases,  and the National Institute for Dental  and Craniofacial Research  are funding studies  to understand whether  and how cranberry might work to: 

                          * Prevent  the formation  of dental plaque. 

Side Effects  and Cautions 

• Eating  cranberry products in food appears to be safe, but drinking excessive  amounts of juice could cause gastrointestinal upset  or diarrhea. 
• People who think they  have a urinary tract infection  should see  a health care provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.  Cranberry products should not be used  to treat infection. 
• Tell your health care providers about any complementary  and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.