The cranberry has been used throughout the world as a remedy for a wide variety of illnesses and ailments for many years. You might see it called bearberry, bog cranberry, mossberry, large cranberry or just cranberry. It boasts a huge range of properties which include use as an anti-oxidant, diuretic, anti-bilious, laxative, sub-astringent and vasodilator to name just a few.

There are many health benefits from eating cranberries, but perhaps the most well known benefit of cranberries and one which Native American Indians have been using for over 70 years to treat is urinary infections. Cranberry juice can not only reduce the symptoms of such as cystitis but when drunk on a regular basis it can ward off urinary infections by protecting the lining of the bladder and urethra.

Not only is cranberry juice great for illnesses but for centuries raw cranberries have been used as a dressing for wounds to help heal them more quickly and to ward off infection - the crushed raw berries are simply placed onto the cleaned wound and then dressed as normal. Such a treatment is said to soothe inflamed skin and boost the healing process.

Cranberries have been said to be particularly helpful for stomach disorders, as well weight loss and problems associated with disorders of the blood. Because cranberry juice is very high in antioxidants it can neutralize free radicals. (Free radicals are caused by environmental toxins in your body. Free radicals are known to contribute to a number of health problems including aging, cancer, heart disease and many infections.) Drinking cranberry juice on a regular basis can reduce the amount of free radicals roaming your body.

Drink up!

Tags: Healthy Eating //