Cranberries belong to the lingonberry family. It is believed that this is a native Russian berry, but it grows in many countries where the forests have marshy soil. You can meet it in the territory of many northern European countries, in Canada and America, in Ukraine, and, of course, almost throughout Russia. Small evergreen shrubs begin to bloom in late spring and already in September they are covered with a scattering of bright red berries, which can be collected before the first snows. Cranberries tolerate frost well, and after the first frost they only become tastier. And even in the spring, when the snow begins to melt, you can find preserved cranberries, although they retain much less vitamins and nutrients. Picking cranberries is not entirely convenient - you need to show endurance, endurance and patience. But the result of such painstaking work will delight you for a whole year.
Storing cranberries
Real cranberry connoisseurs and lovers are in no hurry to make jams and compotes from it, because they know that this berry can be stored without preservation until the next harvest and at the same time fully retain its healing properties. This happens due to the high content of a natural preservative in cranberries, which prevents the development and growth of bacteria - benzoic acid. There are several ways to store cranberries in winter, and all of them are available at home. The main thing is that the berries must be carefully sorted, cleared of twigs and leaves, washed and dried. Crushed and crushed berries can be used for fruit drinks; unripe ones are best thrown away.
Pickled cranberries
Glass or plastic bottles and the most common plastic caps are suitable for this method. The sorted berries are poured to the top into bottles and filled with chilled boiled water. You can store soaked cranberries in any cool place - a refrigerator, on a glassed-in loggia or in a cellar. This berry, as well as fresh, is perfect for making kvass, fruit drinks, pie filling, and for eating in its pure form. The only negative is that when stored for a long time, the berries seem to become saturated with water and stop having a pleasant crunch. But this does not in any way affect the healing properties of cranberries.
Frozen cranberries
This method is great for those who have freezers. Washed and well-dried berries are placed in small portions in plastic bags and frozen. It is advisable to use special bags designed for freezing - they prevent odors from other products stored in the freezer from getting inside. In order to enjoy cranberries, you just need to take out such a bag and let the berries defrost. You should know that they cannot be re-frozen.
Dried cranberries
Pour clean berries into a thin layer onto a baking sheet and take them outside. After 3-4 weeks, the dried berries are lightly dried in the oven. Ready dried cranberries are stored in glass containers, paper or canvas bags. After drying, its taste is significantly lost and it is only suitable for cooking compotes or baking. However, the shelf life of dried cranberries increases to 3 years. Berries picked from bushes after frost are not suitable for this method.
Cranberries with sugar
With this method, the cranberries are minced in a meat grinder or softened in a blender and mixed with sugar in a 1:1 ratio. The finished sweet mixture is placed in clean, sterilized baths, covered with a lid and taken out into the cold. Cranberries, grated with sugar, will replace any store-bought juice in winter. The fruit juice prepared from it is not only pleasant to the taste, but also very healthy.
Of course, you can also preserve cranberries. Often, orange juice is added to the ground berries along with sugar, the mixture is boiled and rolled into jars. The taste qualities of such preparations will please the most discerning fans of delicious food, but they will not be of any benefit - heat treatment deprives cranberries of all beneficial properties.
Useful and medicinal properties of cranberries
Cranberries have long been famous for their unique medicinal properties. First of all, it is a powerful natural antioxidant that reliably protects our cells from the harmful effects of free radicals. This means that the familiar swamp berry, scattered underfoot, is an indispensable assistant in the struggle for youth and beauty. You just need to not be lazy to collect it and prepare it correctly. Cranberries are also indispensable for preventing colds. Surely everyone remembers the sweet and sour taste of cranberry juice, which your caring parents gave you as a child. In addition to its excellent taste, which cannot be compared with store-bought drinks and juices, this fruit drink has a natural antipyretic effect and perfectly helps cope with infections, perfectly quenches thirst and gives a feeling of coolness in the summer heat. The bactericidal and diuretic properties of cranberry juice have a beneficial effect on the genitourinary system. Doctors recommend using it regularly to prevent cystitis, a very unpleasant female disease. It is believed that, being also a natural antibiotic, cranberry fights the proliferation of dangerous pathogenic bacteria in the bladder.
The benefits of cranberries are also obvious for strengthening the immune system. In the autumn-winter period, it can become an indispensable assistant in protecting your body from many misfortunes. In addition, unlike expensive medications with similar effects, it is available to everyone and does not cause any harm to other systems and organs.
Effect on pressure
Quite often you can hear the following question: does cranberry lower or increase blood pressure? The exceptional properties of cranberries allow them to act selectively on the human cardiovascular system. This means that the berry will be useful in any case. The flavonoids it contains give blood vessels and small capillaries elasticity, strength and promote excellent absorption of vitamin C. Any blood pressure problems can be gently corrected by drinking cranberry juice daily. This simple method will help you maintain a healthy heart and not become a hostage to expensive medications that you will have to take almost constantly. Cranberry juice has been proven to help lower cholesterol and protect against strokes and blood clots. The acids it contains dilate the blood vessels of the heart and nourish it. It is noteworthy that the healing substances of berries can be found even in juice extracts.
Cranberries are also recommended during diets, physical and mental stress. It fills the body with energy, mobilizes strength, increases performance and resistance to disease. At the same time, the calorie content of cranberries is only 28 kcal per 100 g.
It is difficult to list all the ailments that medicinal cranberries help to cope with. This includes rheumatism, pancreatitis, diseases of the cardiovascular system, dermatitis, anemia and many other painful conditions. This is explained by the complex chemical composition of the berries and the high content of nutrients, which are perfectly balanced and perfectly absorbed by the body.
Beneficial properties of cranberry stems and leaves
In folk medicine, in addition to berries, cranberry shoots and leaves, which are also rich in beneficial substances, are often used. Decoctions of them are recommended to be used externally, in the form of lotions and baths, to relieve painful conditions due to rheumatism and salt deposits. For sore throats and runny noses, gargle and rinse your nose with a decoction of cranberry stems and leaves. Traditionally, tea brewed from cranberry leaves is drunk after a bath. If you collect cranberries yourself, take the time to collect and prepare their leaves. This tea will more than once save you from shortness of breath, heartburn or headaches. And preparing it is not difficult - 1 dessert spoon of dried leaves is poured with a glass of boiling water, infused a little, filtered and the healthy tea is ready for drinking.
Cranberries in cosmetology
It is also well known that many types of cranberries are used in cosmetology. The juice and pulp of the berries is an excellent basis for refreshing and skin-whitening masks to remove freckles and age spots. Natural home remedies with cranberries will help get rid of acne, smooth out fine wrinkles, and moisturize the skin. Cranberry seed oil obtained by cold pressing is also considered unique in its effect. Cosmetologists recommend it for mature skin, hair and nail care. Cranberry oil nourishes and moisturizes the skin, relieves inflammation, regenerates and accelerates metabolic processes.
Knowing how to properly use the berries, which we almost always have on hand, you can preserve the radiance, beauty and youth of your skin for a long time, without overpaying huge sums for beautiful jars and promoted cosmetic brands.
Cranberries for children
Knowing well the beneficial properties of cranberries, many mothers regularly include them in the diet of their babies. It is useful at any childhood age, excluding only the infant period - at this time children may experience severe allergic reactions. Cranberry promotes the formation of a strong and strong skeleton, has a beneficial effect on the skin of children, perfectly supports the immune system during the period of widespread acute respiratory viral infections and forms resistance to many diseases. Fruit drinks, compotes and cranberry jelly are all very popular with children, and dried berries can be an excellent alternative to other, not the most healthy sweets. In order to fully preserve all the healing properties of cranberries, pediatricians advise pouring squeezed cranberry juice into ready-made and slightly cooled dishes when preparing jelly and compotes. You can diversify the children's menu with cranberry mousses, sweet sauces, and smoothies. But the record holder for popularity was and remains the classic cranberry juice, which, by the way, is enjoyed by not only children, but also adults. To prepare it, you only need fresh or previously defrosted berries, sugar and cooled boiled water. Cranberries are ground with a wooden masher or minced in a meat grinder, the juice is squeezed out through cheesecloth, which is added to water along with sugar. Everything is thoroughly mixed - and the healthy drink is ready. If desired, sugar can be replaced with natural honey.
Cranberries during pregnancy
It is known that pregnancy is a time when women try to eat the healthiest and safest foods. Undoubtedly, red cranberries are included in the list of such products and are often recommended by doctors themselves. In the early stages, it is used as a natural multivitamin, and later – to prevent the occurrence of kidney and bladder infections. As you know, the constantly growing uterus during this period puts pressure on the ureters, which often leads to stagnation of urine and the occurrence of bacterial infections. Urethritis, pyelonephritis, cystitis are frequent companions of pregnant women. Urologists claim that if you regularly drink cranberry juice, these and many other problems can be avoided. Studies show that in women who take natural cranberry juice, pathogens practically do not appear in the walls of the bladder. Moreover, it helps to cope with infections and bacteria that have already developed resistance to many modern antibiotics.
In addition, cranberry juice improves placental blood circulation, supports the pregnant woman’s immunity, keeps blood vessels toned, improves memory, and even helps get rid of postpartum depression. And its sour taste perfectly relieves nausea during toxicosis. Doctors advise drinking a glass of cranberry juice daily, unless its use is contraindicated for a pregnant woman.
Can cranberries be harmful?
Like any product with a powerful effect on the body, cranberries can bring us both benefit and harm. Doctors insist that cranberries should be consumed in moderation. And for people suffering from high stomach acidity, frequent heartburn and chronic kidney disease, this berry, alas, is completely contraindicated, since the acids it contains can irritate the mucous membrane of internal organs. On the other hand, cranberry juice in moderate doses helps fight the microbe that causes gastric ulcers - Helicobacter. The love of cranberries will also have a negative impact on those who have weak tooth enamel - the sour juice of the berry will destroy it. Each organism is individual, so there can be no universal advice in this case. But, if you have any chronic diseases, it is better to regularly consume cranberries with the permission of your doctor.
Types of cranberries
In the minds of most people, cranberries live only in swamps. But that's not true. There are several species of this plant, each of which deserves attention.
- Swamp cranberry. An evergreen creeping shrub with small, waxy leaves. The small berries are bright red. This species is distinguished by the highest content of vitamin C. In ancient times, swamp cranberries were used to treat scurvy, to fight colds and sore throats, and their juice was used to lubricate wounds for speedy healing. Scientists now know everything about cranberries, but people who lived then did not even suspect how many vitamins and microelements the magical berries contain. They simply relied on the experience and knowledge of their ancestors, so cranberries were valued and revered. Today this type of cranberry is the most common.
- Garden cranberry. To grow this species, you do not need to create a swamp in your garden plot - such cranberries will grow well in areas where there is peat in the soil. Many summer residents prefer not to wander through the swamps, but to have a wonderful berry at their side. In addition to the fact that this species is particularly decorative, garden cranberries on your plot will provide you with healthy berries for the whole year, which, by the way, are much larger than those of wild species. Such a garden cranberry plantation can produce crops for half a century.
- Wild cranberry. One of the healthiest berries growing in the wild. People lovingly call it “northern grapes” and value it for its numerous beneficial properties.
Quite often you can hear the expression “spreading cranberries”, which has nothing to do with medicinal berries. This expression is a symbol of something implausible and obviously false.
Cranberries in cooking
The well-known red cranberry is in deserved demand in classical cooking. Sauerkraut with cranberries, sweet and sour sauce for fish and meat, cranberry kvass, magnificent desserts with cranberries - all these and many other dishes can decorate even a festive table. So in America, cranberry sauce is considered a mandatory addition to roast turkey on Thanksgiving Day, and in Europe, on special occasions, chicken with cranberries is served. True gourmets will appreciate this unusual cranberry soup. To prepare it, add potatoes, onions sautéed in butter, and at the very end a glass of cranberries to boiling chicken broth. This soup, served with pieces of chicken and fresh herbs, can be ordered in restaurants in many European cities.
Cranberries grow on a low-growing shrub that is resistant to frost and changing weather conditions. Preferably, the bush is located near swamps and peat bogs. Ripening begins in September. It is this period that ensures that after consumption you pick a berry with a fully formed chemical list of elements. Many people wonder about the benefits and harms of cranberries.
Composition of cranberries
The berry contains a small proportion of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Calorie content of a 100 g serving. is 27 Kcal.
Cranberries are rich in fiber, di- and monosaccharides, water, ash, pectin, organic acids, and dietary fiber.
Regarding elements, phosphorus, tin, molybdenum, sodium, magnesium, potassium, and calcium accumulate in fruits. The berries contain a lot of zinc, barium, iodine, titanium, aluminum, cobalt, boron, copper, silver, chromium, and manganese. Vitamins include niacin, tocopherol, thiamine, folic acid, pyridoxine, ascorbic acid, riboflavin, and vitamin K1.
Cranberries are loved by many for their unique composition. They contain a lot of natural sugar, namely glucose and fructose.
Organic acids include citric, malic, quinic, succinic, oxalic, chlorogenic, and ketoglutaric.
In addition to the above valuable elements, cranberries include catechins, betaine, bioflavonoids, phenolic compounds, leukoanthocyanins and flavonols.
If we talk about the nutritional value of fresh fruits, the indicators allow the use of cranberries in dietary nutrition. Dried berries accumulate much more saccharides, so you should be careful with them.
Benefits of cranberries
- Cranberries are used as the main component for medications aimed at combating cancer. The berry has the ability to block blood flow to cancer cells, thereby triggering the self-destruction of the tumor.
- The berry is a natural antioxidant that prevents premature aging of tissues, preserving youth. Cranberry stops the effect of free radicals, cleanses the liver and kidneys.
- Often cranberry juice is used to treat sore throat and other similar ailments. The fruits have the property of lowering body temperature during fever. Berries also remove mucus from the respiratory tract and cleanse the lungs of smokers.
- Flavonoids are responsible for the elasticity of vascular walls. The elements expand the blood channels and provide the blood with oxygen. As a result, prevention of thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, atherosclerosis, varicose veins and other ailments of this type is carried out.
- Cranberry is one of the best natural multivitamin complexes. When taken systematically, the condition of hair and skin improves, and the activity of all internal organs is normalized. Cranberries are useful to eat for categories of people who have naturally low immunity.
- Fruits help increase appetite. As a result, metabolism and digestibility of food are improved, gastrointestinal diseases are prevented, and stools are stabilized. Cranberry gently cleanses the intestines of stagnation.
- The diuretic properties allow the berry to be used by people who suffer from excessive swelling of the limbs and tissues of internal organs. Cranberries remove excess water and prevent salts from retaining liquid. Thanks to this, the heaviness in the legs goes away.
- The beneficial qualities of the berry apply to those who have a tendency to form blood clots and increase cholesterol in the blood. Cranberries help prevent these ailments.
- The fruits are indispensable for fever, respiratory diseases, and colds. Bactericidal and anti-inflammatory properties will quickly cure the disease and relieve fever. Also, the immune system is strengthened “on all fronts.”
- It is useful to take cranberries together with antibiotics to enhance the effect of the medications. Just consult your doctor before doing this. The berry fights frequent migraines, headaches, heartburn, and general malaise.
- It is useful to consume grated cranberries with honey or granulated sugar to increase brain performance and physical endurance. These qualities are valued by categories of people who work with their heads. The berry is also recommended for consumption by athletes.
- To cleanse the intestines. Cranberries are valued for their ability to gently cleanse the intestinal tract of stagnation. In addition, after taking the product, all the work of the internal organ is normalized, and the digestibility of food improves. Mix cranberry juice with beet juice in equal proportions. Take 3-5 sips 3 times a day. Most often, constipation (including chronic) and vascular spasms are treated with a similar composition.
- For a cold. To cure colds or inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, combine aloe vera juice with cranberry juice, lemon juice, sugar, honey and vodka. Measure each ingredient in equal quantities, combine and stir. Take 3 times a day, 2 tablespoons. Keep refrigerated.
- To restore strength. It is useful to consume cranberry juice diluted with water in equal quantities. The drink is especially suitable for people who work a lot physically, lead an active lifestyle, and play sports. A diluted drug will enrich brain cells with oxygen, quickly replenish the lack of strength, and give vigor.
- For hypertension. If you suffer from high blood pressure, prepare the following remedy. Mix 500 gr. cranberries with 130 gr. sugar, add 250 ml. filtered water. Place the raw materials in a saucepan on the stove and cook for 8 minutes. Strain, cool, dilute with water 50-50. Drink a whole glass (250-300 ml.) 1-2 times a day.
- From diabetes. To normalize the course of the disease and alleviate the condition, it is necessary to maintain blood glucose levels at the correct level. Grind a handful of cranberries, pour in 250 ml. hot (but not boiling!) water, leave for an hour. Take 50 ml of the drug every day. twice a day.
- For the prevention of the genitourinary system. The berry is useful for the prevention of diseases of the reproductive and urinary system in women and men. In order to increase metabolism and protect internal organs from infections, take 100 ml. cranberry juice daily, dividing the indicated volume into 3 times.
- For diarrhea. If you regularly suffer from diarrhea or want to routinely normalize your stool, use a mixture of berries and cranberry leaves. Take an equal amount of ingredients, pour 500 ml. hot ode. Place the mixture on the stove and cook for 6 minutes after boiling. Strain, cool, take 130 ml. 4 times a day.
Benefits of cranberries for pregnant women
- It is recommended to consume the fruits, adhering to the daily norm. The health of the woman and baby will improve significantly, intrauterine development will be more harmonious. Many girls face problems with the genitourinary system while carrying a child.
- Illnesses most often occur against the background of a weakened immune system and hormonal dysfunction. Progesterone is secreted in the female body. This hormone promotes the development of bacteria in the urinary tract. To cope with trouble, you need to drink cranberry juice.
- The drink is a powerful antibacterial compound. The juice suppresses the spread and further development of microflora of harmful microbes. The main feature of the product is that it is not addictive, unlike medications. Therefore, the drink is completely safe during pregnancy.
- Often, girls during this crucial period are faced with actively developing caries and inflammation of the gums. In this case, you are allowed to eat only cranberries. The berries have an antibacterial effect, disinfecting the oral cavity and eliminating the sources of problems. The composition has proven itself in the fight against streptococci.
- Cranberries are rich in flavonoids; enzymes are actively involved in the complete absorption of ascorbic acid. As a result, the elasticity of blood vessels increases significantly, and the blood is cleansed of harmful compounds. In addition, the presence of antioxidants has a positive effect on the activity of the central nervous system, reducing the risk of postpartum depression.
- Cranberry helps girls fight dropsy and swelling during pregnancy. Such troubles arise due to the body’s inability to respond to any changes. The fruits help a woman adapt to almost any hormonal changes. The daily norm for pregnant girls of cranberry juice or juice is about 2 liters.
- Cranberries are good at preventing the development of cystitis and kidney pathologies during pregnancy. In this case, it is recommended to start the morning with a glass of natural fruit drink. The drink is prescribed as a prophylactic to avoid complications due to fetal development. The composition activates placental blood circulation.
- Studies have shown that cranberries are beneficial for children's bodies. The fruits significantly increase the child’s appetite and strengthen the functions of the protective shell. Regular consumption of berries relieves the child's body from a dry, prolonged cough.
- To prevent colds, a product based on cranberries and honey is used. A healthy treat relieves a child of the symptoms of the disease, saturates the body with valuable microelements and fights constipation.
- Children are allowed to give cranberries in any form. Berries can be added to cereals, salads, desserts and tea. No less healthy jelly, compotes, juices, infusions and fruit drinks are prepared from the fruits. It is recommended to give only non-concentrated drinks to children under 3 years of age.
Harm of cranberries
- Cranberries will bring invaluable benefits to a person if the recommendations are followed and there are no contraindications. The fruits are prohibited from being consumed in any form if you have gastritis or acute liver diseases. Cranberries are highly acidic.
- Natural cranberry juice is contraindicated for ulcers of any stage. People who have weakened tooth enamel should be more careful. If you consume berries excessively, it does not bode well.
- Remember, no matter how beneficial the product is, you should always follow the recommended daily intake. If you have chronic illnesses, consult a specialist before consuming cranberries.
Cranberries are rightfully considered a unique berry, which can significantly improve human health and relieve a list of ailments. Abuse of the product can lead to dire consequences. Introduce berries into your daily diet gradually, carefully monitor your body’s reaction.
Video: healing properties of cranberries
TO cranberries are bright red, sour berries that grow on evergreen bushes in the marshy, damp areas of the Northern Hemisphere. It is not for nothing that people have appreciated its healing and protective properties since ancient times; it protected people from diseases and was a reliable assistant in the fight against illnesses. They collected and prepared berries both for home consumption and for travelers on the road.
Today, doctors classify cranberries as one of the healthiest foods and natural antibiotics.
What are the medicinal benefits of cranberry? Beneficial properties of cranberries:
These berries were used in the fight against scurvy and other vitamin deficiencies, as they are a source of vitamins C, E and group B. However, when frozen, ascorbic acid is destroyed, but cranberries are perfectly stored on their own, as the content of benzoic acid protects them from rotting.
The high concentration of tannin provides a powerful antibacterial effect, which makes it possible to use cranberries for infections of the urinary tract, skin, upper respiratory tract and even caries.
Cranberry has a detrimental effect on a wide variety of microorganisms and prevents their reproduction. Eating cranberries potentiates the effect of antibiotics. And recently, scientists have established the effectiveness of cranberries in the fight against Helicobacter pylori infection, which provokes the development of peptic ulcers.
Periodic consumption of cranberry juice or fruit drink prevents the exacerbation of chronic cystitis and kidney stone formation, due to its diuretic effect and acidification of urine.
Unique substances polyphenols strengthen antitumor immunity.
The high content of various microelements expands the scope of cranberries. Potassium salts, iodine, boron and manganese lower blood pressure and normalize heart rate, improve metabolism. Cranberry has the ability to bind and help remove heavy metal salts from the body.
The presence of proanthocyanidins, natural strong antioxidants, explains the vasoprotective and restorative effects. Cranberry improves the rheological properties of blood, increases the elasticity of the vascular wall and prevents thrombus formation.
It is necessary, however, not to forget about the ability of cranberries to enhance gastric secretion and the production of pancreatic juice, which is harmful for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with high acidity. In addition, cranberry increases appetite. But after heat treatment, these properties decrease.
How to use cranberries? Brief and complete cranberry recipes
They consume fresh and dried berries, juice, syrup, fruit juice, jam, jelly, jelly, kvass, tincture, decoction of leaves - in general, everything you can imagine. Berries are also used to decorate dishes, in salads, for filling when baking pies, and as a preservative when preparing food.
For headaches, it is recommended to take ground cranberries and honey, mixed in equal proportions.
Compresses made from freshly squeezed cranberry juice will be useful for boils and pustular skin diseases.
To prevent cystitis, drink a glass of cranberry juice daily. And to prevent the formation of kidney stones, drink cranberry juice for a week and then take a week off, drinking sweet tea or another alkaline drink.
Cranberry juice is ideal for colds as an antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, thirst quencher and tonic.
Masks for 15 minutes made from cranberry juice will remove pigment spots, oily shine and acne from the skin.
A decoction of cranberry leaves, half a glass four times a day, will relieve diarrhea.
A few crushed berries added to tea will have a tonic effect and relieve the feeling of fatigue.
Cranberry juice will lower blood pressure, relieve swelling, strengthen and improve the trophism of the walls of blood vessels with varicose veins.
The properties of berries are best preserved in juice and fruit drinks. To make a fruit drink, you need to grind the berries and boil the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes, then cool, remove the sediment, add cranberry juice diluted with water and honey (or sugar) to taste.
You can even make a fragrant, but strong, cranberry liqueur from cranberries. To do this, you will need to grind two glasses of berries with one glass of sugar and pour in about 0.5 liters of vodka, leave this mixture for a month, shaking occasionally, strain, cool and treat your dear people.
Cranberry juice
Wash 1 glass of cranberries and add 1 liter of water, put on fire, bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes. The broth is filtered, 0.5 cups of sugar are added, brought to a boil and cooled. The drink is served chilled. In the process of preparing fruit juice, you can use blanched berries rather than whole ones.
Vitamin drink
Juice is squeezed out of 1 kg of cranberries. 2 kg of carrots are grated and the juice is squeezed out of it through cheesecloth. Cranberry and carrot juice are mixed, add 5 tbsp. l. sugar, mix thoroughly, pour into glasses with ice cubes and dilute with chilled boiled water.
Contraindications. Cranberries and drinks made from them are not recommended for consumption by people suffering from acute inflammatory processes in the stomach and intestines.
The benefits of cranberries have been known for a long time; its medicinal properties have been proven and studied for many years. The berry can cure many diseases, strengthen the immune system, fight colds and other ailments. But in addition to the beneficial effect, cranberries can also have side effects on the human body, sometimes even harmful. Everyone should know what cranberry is good for and how to use it so as not to harm your health.
Chemical composition and features
Cranberry is a red and sour-tasting berry that grows in the northern latitudes of Russia and other countries. It is known for its healing properties and rich vitamin composition. It is often used in cooking as an additive to enrich products with useful components, in medicine and even in cosmetology. And all this thanks to its multivitamin composition.
The calorie content of 100 grams of fresh berries is 25-28 kilocalories, and the dried ones are already much more - 300 kcal. This difference occurs due to loss of moisture, because when dried, the berries lose weight, but useful components, acids and sugars remain. Considering the chemical composition of cranberries, we can note the content of the following substances:
- protein - 0.5 g;
- carbohydrates - 3.7 g;
- fats - 0.2 g;
- dietary fiber - 3.3 g;
- water - 88.9 g;
- mono- and disaccharides - 3.7 g.
The beneficial properties of cranberries for the human body are also due to the presence in its composition many vitamins. Among them, the most valuable are (indicator in mg):
- B1 - 0.02;
- B2 - 0.02;
- B6 - 0.08;
- B9 - 1 mcg;
- C - 15;
- E - 1;
- RR - 0.3.
Minerals include the presence of magnesium, aluminum, manganese, silver, iron, copper, zinc, barium, potassium, iodine, chromium, and boron. It contains the most potassium (119 mg), magnesium and calcium 15 mg each, phosphorus - 11 mg. In addition, the berry contains tannins, amino acids, antioxidants, pectins and flavonoids (in general, everything you need for health).
Such a rich composition makes it possible to call cranberries a real antibiotic and protector against viruses, and that’s not all that cranberries are good for the human body.
Beneficial features
With the arrival of cold weather, crowds begin to gather in pharmacies, buying all kinds of cold teas and antiviral drugs. But do they really help? Our ancestors did not have such medicines, but were healthier than us. Even today you can meet long-lived grandmothers on the street who were treated with folk remedies, drank herbal teas and can boast of their health.
Nutritionists and doctors consider cranberries as a product high in vitamin C, B, iron and other micro- and macroelements that have a positive effect on the human body. But besides the benefits, cranberry can also cause harm to health, so before using it, a person needs to study its qualities.
Northern berries are recommended for adults, children, pregnant women and the elderly to eat; cranberry juice and tea are especially useful, but considering that juice destroys tooth enamel, it is better to replace it with fruit drink. In addition, the usefulness of the berry lies in cleansing the body, normalization of metabolic processes and removal of toxins. Antioxidants take care of the beauty of hair, nails and skin, slow down aging and maintain tone, resist fungi, bacteria, dandruff and dermatitis.
Revealed special benefits for the female body associated with hormonal levels. The berry makes it easier to cope with toxicosis during pregnancy, reduces nausea, irritability, and fatigue. With PMS, it helps relieve pain, normalizes the cycle, the abundance and pain of discharge, smoothes out mood swings and aggression. It also helps fight depression: improves mood, energizes, and invigorates.
Cranberry is the best antiseptic. Possessing this quality, berries fight colds and infectious diseases, this applies not only to ARVI or influenza, but also to the genitourinary system, lungs, diseases of the throat and oral cavity. Cranberry juice is an excellent remedy for periodontal disease and stomatitis, as it relieves gum inflammation and kills bacteria.
American scientists have proven that the acid contained in cranberry pulp fights the causative agent of gastritis- Helicobacter pylori bacterium. The miracle berry also helps in the fight against diabetes by normalizing the functioning of the pancreas, which produces insulin. Fruit drinks contain a large amount of fructose rather than sucrose, which allows diabetics to drink the drink in unlimited quantities.
Cranberry compotes are rich in antioxidants, so their invigorating effect is not inferior even to coffee drinks. The sour berry lowers blood pressure and relieves headaches, has a diuretic effect, which is useful for people suffering from high blood pressure (unlike drugs, it does not remove potassium from the body).
Cranberry lowers cholesterol levels, helps with weight loss, reducing appetite, cleansing the body of toxins and inspiring creative deeds. Cranberry juice helps fight E. coli, diarrhea and stomach diseases, but people with ulcers and gastritis should be very careful when drinking the drink due to its high acid content.
And these are not all the beneficial properties of the product, but only the main and most pronounced ones. With regular consumption of juice or fruit drink, you can protect yourself from colds, cleanse yourself of waste and toxins, lower cholesterol and blood sugar, and most importantly - in a simple and affordable way. The benefits and harms of cranberry juice, which is less concentrated and does not have such a strong effect on the acidity of the stomach, have been especially proven.
Harmful qualities
The acid contained in cranberry juice kills bacteria and microbes in the mouth, relieves inflammation, but destroys tooth enamel, so it is recommended to drink the juice through a straw.
People suffering from gastritis and stomach ulcers should Drink drinks with caution with a high acid content, otherwise not only heartburn will appear, but also an exacerbation of the disease. You should not drink juice on an empty stomach, as this can lead to stomach pain, excessive secretion of gastric juice and a decrease in blood pressure.
Berry juice should not be abused by people suffering from pancreatitis, liver and kidney problems, urolithiasis and gout. Also eating berries limited at low pressure.
Another negative factor is an allergy to the product, which manifests itself in the form of redness, itching and rash. In this regard, cranberries are contraindicated for nursing mothers and children under three years of age.
Treatment of diseases with traditional recipes
Cranberries are a universal product that is useful for many people, especially those with weakened immune systems and a tendency to catch colds. To avoid frequent illnesses and avoid the problems of vitamin deficiency, you need to drink 1 glass of juice or fruit drink from berries. We offer recipes for healthy and tasty cranberry-based “medicines” that can be prepared at home.
Cranberry infusion for colds
The plant has an anti-inflammatory effect, which makes the body sweat, and the charge of vitamins helps fight viruses. To prepare the infusion you will need:
- 1 glass of berries;
- 1 liter of boiling water;
- enamel container.
The berries are washed, crushed using a puree masher and poured with boiling water. The entire consistency is thoroughly mixed and brought to a boil, then left for 15-20 minutes, filtered through a sieve and drunk 1 glass 3-4 times a day.
Recipe for reducing blood pressure
People suffering from high blood pressure are aware of the problem of constant headaches and swelling. To combat the disease, doctors recommend drinking infusions, juices, fruit drinks, jelly or compotes based on northern berries. To prepare the medicine, you need to take:
- 2 cups fresh berries;
- 1 glass of water;
- half a glass of sugar.
The cranberries are washed, crushed, covered with sugar and poured with water, brought to a boil and filtered. This decoction can be dilute with water or add to tea.
Fighting sore throat
The cold season threatens with frequent throat inflammations, which bring a lot of unpleasant sensations. One of the diseases of this period is tonsillitis. Being a bacterial or fungal disease, it is of a chronic type and occurs at the first hypothermia.
To get rid of the problem, you can gargle and drink cranberry juice diluted in half with boiled water. To prepare a healing potion you will need cranberry and beet juice, honey and vodka. The amount of ingredients should be the same. Mix everything and leave for three days, stirring occasionally. Take 1 tablespoon before each meal.
General strengthening drink
To resist vitamin deficiency and strengthen the immune system, it is advisable to drink an infusion of crushed berries poured with boiling water. Daily use of this tea will help fight viruses, bacteria, maintain good mood, performance and energy.
Storing berries
To stock up on a large amount of fruits for the whole winter, you can freeze them, make jam, or simply put them in jars and fill them with water. In this way, you can preserve all the useful components and vitamin composition of sour fruits.
Attention, TODAY only!
Cranberries have many wonderful qualities. Its medicinal properties are used with great benefit in folk, traditional medicine, and cosmetology. With a competent approach, taking into account contraindications, with the help of this berry you can cope with many problems. Read our article on how to use it without harm to the body.
The value of cranberries lies in its unique chemical composition. And the natural preservative, benzoic acid, contained in the sour berry, retains most vitamins and minerals even in frozen and dried fruits. As a rich source of vitamin C, it can easily replace lemons and oranges, which are recommended for colds. It also contains a large set of B vitamins, in particular such valuable ones as riboflavin, thiamine, and folic acid. It is recommended to use cranberries when treating with antibiotics, because it increases the effectiveness of their effects due to the presence of benzoic acid. The juice of the berry contains antibacterial components, so it is used to heal wounds, burns, and to treat dermatitis and suppuration.
Cranberries contain huge amounts of vitamin C The main properties of cranberries include:
- thirst quencher;
- bactericidal;
- diuretic;
- tonic;
- vitamin
Benefits of cranberries
The presence of cranberries in the diet helps to avoid many health problems:
Advice: natural cranberry juice brings great benefits, because... There is a lot of sugar in the store.
Can cranberries be harmful?
Like any product in uncontrolled quantities, cranberries can be harmful. People who have the following problems should drink juices from it with caution:
- increased acidity, gastritis;
Cranberry has a number of contraindications - allergy to salicylic acid;
- hypotension;
- hyperxaluria.
Attention! Drinking large amounts of cranberry juice can disrupt your digestive system. The maximum is 3 liters per day. If you are taking blood thinning medications, you should limit your consumption of berries.
Following some rules will eliminate unwanted consequences. Remember:
- You cannot eat berries on an empty stomach.
- Be sure to rinse your mouth after eating cranberries.
- Do not boil the berries, but simply pour boiling water over them.
Uses of cranberries
Cranberries are used as a food product, in pharmacology, and as a traditional medicine. Drinks and the berry itself are effective against high blood pressure. To reduce it, use the following recipes:
Other diseases are also treated using cranberry-based recipes. For skin problems, a composition of 0.5 tbsp will help. juice diluted with water (1:1), with the addition of a small spoon of honey, drunk 3 times during the day.
You can make desserts and drinks from cranberries To treat the stomach, the juice is diluted 1:1 with water and consumed 100 g before meals. After a heart attack, taking a mixture of 1 kg of cranberries, 0.2 kg of garlic, minced through a meat grinder, followed by the addition of 0.1 kg of honey will help you recover. Cranberry juice can also be used to treat sore throat, adding 3 tbsp to 1 glass. spoons of honey. This mixture is gargled and taken orally.
