The Cranberries in our lives

Cranberries are trailing vines which grow well in cool areas. They are low shrubs measuring 2 meters long and 7 to 20 centimetres height. The flowers are pink and the fruit is red dark. The fruit has an acidic taste, but bitter. Therefore cranberries are usually processed. This shrub is native to North America. Cranberry fruit is high in antioxidants, which neutralize particles in the body called free radicals. These radicals damage cell membranes and interfere with DNA. Cranberries are excellent sources of vitamin C. Scientists are researching the ability of cranberries in helping to protect against heart disease and cancer.

Cranberry fruit was used by Americans to treat bladder and kidney diseases. Over the years, people did learn how to use the fruit cooked and raw. They used it for loss of appetite, blood disorders and stomach problems.

Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, it can be used in treating inflammation. The cranberry juice is good for fighting some viruses and some forms of cancer.

The best use of cranberry is for preventing urinary tract infections caused by a bacteria called Escherichia coli. The fruit does not have the potential of treating urinary tract infections. It helps in reducing dental plaque and therefore in the treatment of gum diseases. Cranberry is also used in skin treatments and Candida infections.

Cranberry fruit has the potential to prevent the bacteria Helicobacter pylori which can cause stomach ulcers. The juice reduces fever and helps to control diabetes. The cranberry juice is useful for asthma sufferers by giving them some relief for the symptoms.

Cranberry fruit extracts can reduce the risk of hight blood pressure and therefore helps in preventing heart problems.

Cranberry fruit can be used in many form and ways in the kitchen. You can have:

• Cranberry Juice
• Cranberry sauce
• Cranberry compot
• Cranberry butter
• Cranberry cake
• Cranberry bars
• Cranberry mustard
• Cranberry pie
• Cranberry sorbet
• Cranberry punch
• Cranberry vodka
• Cranberry wine

Cranberries are also used to make candles and bracelets. In the form of pills, it is used to maintain a healthy immune system in cats and dogs. Dried cranberries help in the improvement of prostate cancer condition. The latest researches on animals indicate that cranberry can be used to protect brain cells from neurological damage. More research is needed.