Cranberry for prevention of urinary tract infections.
Traditionally, cranberry has been used for the treatment and prophylaxis of urinary tract infections. Research suggests that its mechanism of action is preventing bacterial adherence to host cell surface membranes. Systematic reviews have concluded that no reliable evidence supports the use of cranberry in the treatment or prophylaxis of urinary tract infections; however, more recent, randomized controlled trials demonstrate evidence of cranberry's utility in urinary tract infection prophylaxis. Supporting studies in humans are lacking for other clinical uses of cranberry. Cranberry is a safe, well-tolerated herbal supplement that does not have significant drug interactions.
Lynch
Darren M
DM
Continuum Center for Health and Healing, Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, New York, USA. dkbdlynch@yahoo.com
D019587:Dietary Supplements; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D008517:Phytotherapy; D014552:Urinary Tract Infections / Q000517:prevention & control*; D029799:Vaccinium macrocarpon