Effect:
diuretic, slightly antibacterial, pain relieving, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant
Areas of application:
Early stage urinary tract infections, reduces the risk of arteriosclerosis, inhibits Haemophilus influenza, prevents stomach ulcers, anti-tumor agent, prevents cancer, inhibits the spread of cancer, sleep-wake rhythm
Plant parts used:
fruit
Collection time:
Autumn
To find:
In eastern North America, in acidic bogs, swamps, wetlands and poorly drained grasslands.
Ingredients:
Antioxidants, vitamin C, salicylic acid, flavonoids, melatonin
Miscellaneous:
The low-growing, creeping shrub rarely reaches a height of more than 20 cm. The cranberry bushes have long, wiry trunks or tendrils that can grow up to 2 meters long. The plant has small, elongated, evergreen leaves that are speckled with tiny dots on the underside. The leathery leaves are 0.75 to 1.25 cm long. The dark pink flowers with clearly protruding petals appear from June to August. The style and stamens are exposed and point forward. The cranberry fruit is a small berry that is larger than the leaves. The berry is white when unripe and usually turns dark red when ripe. The fruits are lighter than water.
🛑 Patients taking anticoagulants need to be careful when taking cranberry. The additional anticoagulant effect of the cranberry strengthens the Coumadin. Cranberries contain salicylic acid, a component of aspirin. People who are allergic to aspirin should avoid the fruit.
The fruit is used in the kitchen, but it is very sour. Adding sugar makes them edible, as does drying them. Soft fruits are processed into compote or juice. You can also use them instead of raisins in cakes. The fruits can also be found in muesli bars or yoghurts.