HERB OF THE MONTH: Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)

PART USED Fruit

USES

* Primary uses: Prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs)

* Historical use: Prevention of kidney stones, blood purifier

* Recent research: Preliminary studies suggest that cranberries may protect against heart disease and certain types of cancer, primarily through the antioxidant action of flavonoids

ACTIVE CONSTITUENTS Hydroxycinnamic acid, anthocyanidins, proanthocyanidins and flavonols

RECOMMENDED FORMS AND AMOUNTS

* Cranberry juice concentrated extract: one 400-mg capsule twice daily

* Tincture (1:5 concentration): �-1 teaspoon (3-5mL) three times daily

* Cranberry juice from unsweetened …