Cranberry: against infections and fatigue

The cranberry is a small red berry native to North America. Harvested in the fall, it is distinguished by its exceptional richness in antioxidants , vitamins and proanthocyanidins (PACs).
It exists in two forms:

The European cranberry ( Vaccinium oxycoccus ), smaller and more tart, which grows wild in peat bogs,
and the North American cranberry ( Vaccinium macrocarpon ), with larger and sweeter fruit, now cultivated in several temperate regions.

A bowl of red cranberries surrounded by pine branches, star anise and cinnamon sticks, with fairy lights and light snow on a wooden table – a warm and natural Christmas ambiance, a symbol of winter well-being.

Cranberry and health: a treasure for the body and mind

Natural protection against urinary tract infections

Cranberry has been recognized for centuries for its antibacterial properties .
Clinical studies conducted in the United States have shown that type A proanthocyanidins contained in cranberry prevent Escherichia coli bacteria from attaching to the walls of the bladder.
👉 Result: bacteria are eliminated naturally, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections and recurrent cystitis .

In France, health authorities also recognize the benefits of cranberry in preventing recurrent cystitis.
According to an opinion from ANSES (French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety) , the active compounds in cranberry — particularly proanthocyanidins — can inhibit the adhesion of E. coli bacteria to the urinary mucosa , thus helping to reduce the frequency of urinary tract infections.
👉 Read the full ANSES report: ANSES Opinion – Cranberry and community-acquired urinary tract infections (PDF)

An ally for the brain and concentration

A little-known benefit of cranberries is their positive effect on the brain .
The antioxidants it contains protect brain cells against oxidative stress, improve neuronal communication , and support memory and concentration abilities.

Polish researchers have observed that regular consumption of cranberry-based preparations improves cerebral blood circulation and enhances intellectual vitality , especially after intense mental effort.

💡 Perfect for students, people experiencing stress or mental fatigue.

A natural shield for immunity

Rich in vitamins C, K, B1, B2 and beta-carotene , cranberry stimulates natural defenses .
It also contains magnesium , potassium , zinc and manganese , which support energy and cell regeneration.
It thus helps to prevent seasonal infections , to strengthen the body after fatigue or convalescence , and to support general vitality .

Traditional recipe: Honey cranberry – a comforting treat

An age-old recipe , simple and effective, allows you to fully enjoy the virtues of this berry.

Ingredients

500g of fresh cranberries (ideally wild)
900g of natural honey

Preparation

Wash and drain the fruit.
Crush them in an enameled saucepan.
Add a little water if necessary and heat gently for 4–5 minutes.
Allow to cool slightly, then mix with the honey.
Pour into sterilized jars and store in the refrigerator.

Use

Take 1 tablespoon, 3 times a day between meals , for 4 to 5 weeks.
It can also be diluted in a little warm water.

Small bowl of cranberry mixed with honey, topped with half a slice of lemon, surrounded by red berries – a handcrafted preparation rich in antioxidants and immunity-boosting benefits.

Benefits of this preparation

Strengthens natural immunity
Regenerates after antibiotic therapy
Protects the bladder and kidneys
Detoxifies and revitalizes the body
Supports the brain and memory

In summary: cranberry, a red gem for well-being

An emblematic plant of the cold season, the cranberry combines taste pleasure and therapeutic power .
Whether in herbal tea, juice, food supplement or homemade preparation with honey, it supports women's health, the immune system and intellectual vitality .

Make cranberry your natural wellness ally — a small red fruit for great inner balance.

Enamelled pot filled with frozen cranberries placed on a bed of moss in a forest, surrounded by pine cones – a natural scene evoking freshness, winter and the benefits of red fruits.

Sources:

Plants & Health. “Cranberry: an alternative solution for cystitis.” Published on July 15, 2014 (updated on May 17, 2018). Retrieved from https://www.plantes-et-sante.fr/articles/aliments-sains/2094-la-canneberge-une-solution-alternative-contre-la-cystite
Nowak, Zbigniew T. Plants for children's health .

Under no circumstances should the information and advice offered on the MerveilleNature website be considered a substitute for a consultation or diagnosis made by a doctor or healthcare professional, who are the only ones able to properly assess your state of health.