Parts Most Frequently Used: Berry

Flavors/Temps: Bitter, Sour, Cold

Caution: Safe.

History/Folklore: Half a cup of cranberries contains only 25 calories.

Because bacteria does not thrive in acidic environments, the increase in acid in urine from eating cranberries is another reason they are helpful for preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs).  One in five women will develop a UTI during her lifetime, it is a far less common disorder in men.  Most infections are caused by one type of bacteria, E. coli. Recent studies have shown that unsweetened cranberry juice not only increases the acid in urine, but it can also reduce the ability of E. coli to adhere to the lining of the bladder and urethra, reducing the chance for urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Another study found that cranberry extract inhibits an enzyme that has been associated with reducing the risk of cancer.

Native Americans used raw cranberries in dressings to help heal wounds, especially to draw poisons form the blood caused by arrow wounds. Cranberries were understood to help remove toxins from the blood. Cranberries were considered a symbol of peace by the Native American Delaware Tribes. Native Americans also mixed deer meat with mashed cranberries to make a convenience food that could be kept for a long period of time.

The name “cranberry” comes from early Dutch and German settlers, who called it “crane berry” because in the spring the flower’s petals twist back resembling the neck, head and bill of a crane.

Cranberries are a traditional relish dish included in the U.S. Thanksgiving meal. It is rumored that they were part of the first Thanksgiving dinner served in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Cranberries are the symbol for the state of Massachusetts.

Cranberries were carried on sailing ships because they were easy to preserve and helped prevent scurvy.

Cranberry juice can be used to make a natural dye for rugs, blankets and clothing.

98% of the world’s cranberries are cultivated in the northern U.S. and Canada. The cranberry is one of only a handful of fruits native to North America, the Concord grape and blueberries are two others.