Cranberries - "sour ball": benefits, use in traditional medicine. Healing composition of fruits

In the recipes for the preparation of cranberry juice, jams, berries are used, they are used to treat various diseases. Beneficial features cranberries are used to increase the acidity of gastric juice, maintain the health of the heart and blood vessels, reduce, improve the condition of the skin.

Where it grows and when to collect cranberries

The name is translated from Latin as "sour berry". A creeping shrub requires ample light and moisture. Cranberries grow in the Northern Hemisphere, mainly in swamps where the soil is damp.

A fungus lives on the roots, the cells of the roots and mycelium form a symbiosis - with the help of fungal filaments, the shrub receives useful substances.

The berries bloom in June, the cranberries are harvested from mid-September. Sometimes in spring, but they are low in vitamin C, although they taste sweeter than plucked in autumn.

If you pick the cranberries early - at the beginning of September - they will ripen and turn red. But there will be less useful properties, vitamins, minerals, organic acids, an unripe crop deteriorates faster.

In addition, an inexperienced picker may not distinguish unripe berries from flower stalks and cause irreparable damage to the plant.

Vitamin and mineral composition

Cranberries are useful for their high content of vitamin C, which has antioxidant properties, protects cells from free radicals, especially during periods of epidemics. By this indicator healing effect similar to citrus fruits (, orange, tangerine).

Calorie content of cranberries (100g) - 28 kcal.

Cranberry berries contain B vitamins:

• B1 stimulates the processes of growth and development, supports the health of the heart, stomach, intestines, nervous system;
• B2 promotes the creation of red blood cells, antibodies, normalization reproductive functions and the activity of the thyroid gland, useful for improving the appearance of skin and nails, hair health.
• AT 3 ( a nicotinic acid) helps the body to assimilate and use vitamin C, increases its healing effect.
• B6 is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters by which electrical impulse nerve cell transmitted between neurons or from neurons to muscle tissues, is also necessary for synthesis.

Berries are useful for their high content of trace elements - potassium, phosphorus.

Potassium is a part of the intracellular fluids of the human body, its assimilation facilitates the presence of vitamin B6. Adequate intake is beneficial nervous system, vessels and capillaries, improves the condition of the muscles.

Potassium removes moisture, therefore, when ingested with cranberries, it is useful for hypotensive properties - it lowers blood pressure. The body loses potassium through abuse, treatment of hypertension with diuretics.

Potassium normalizes heartbeat, reduces the risk of stroke, helps to relieve, eliminate disorders, reduce body weight.

Magnesium, which is found in cranberries, has beneficial properties to remove nervous tension, soothe, eliminate smooth muscle spasm in the vessels, intestines, gall and bladder. The element normalizes the heart rate, reduces blood clotting, is useful for anti-inflammatory, diuretic, vasodilating properties, stimulates the secretion of bile, intestinal motility, locomotor activity gallbladder.

Calcium is involved in metabolic processes between the cells of the body, coordination of movements. When taken with cranberries, it is useful for anti-inflammatory properties, eliminates reduced blood clotting, and normalizes the activity of the nervous system.

Phosphorus is necessary for the brain, helps to accumulate energy reserves, supports the body during high loads, strengthens the teeth, a sufficient intake is needed to prevent rickets and anemia.

Cranberry juice and berries are useful for antibacterial properties due to the tannin in the composition, which is used for treatment infectious diseases.

What is cranberry good for?

The berry enhances the effect of antibiotics, is a catalyst for this variety drugs... In addition, phytoncides are antibiotics of natural origin in the composition of cranberry berries.

Cranberry juice and berries are useful for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antipyretic properties, they are used as a tonic and anti-cold remedy.

The berry stimulates the activity of the endocrine glands, it is used to eliminate metabolic disorders, with anemia, hypertension, atherosclerosis, diseases of the stomach, liver, pancreas, diabetes, obesity.

The diuretic properties of cranberries are useful in treating inflammation of the female and male genital tract. The use of medicinal berries prevents the formation of the bladder.

Cranberries are useful for their high content of bioflavonoids - biologically active substances, in combination with vitamin C, they increase strength and reduce capillary permeability, stimulate cellular respiration.

Anthocyanins, which are part of cranberries, are useful for antibacterial properties, strengthen, and help to eliminate edema. The body does not synthesize or accumulate this type of bioflavonoids; they must be supplied in sufficient quantities with food.

Another type of bioflavonoids - proanthocyanids, which are also rich in cranberries, have useful antioxidant properties, slow down the aging process, and reduce intoxication of the body.

Acids are represented by benzoic, citric, malic and other types.

In particular, benzoic acid in the composition of food additives is used for canning, it inhibits the growth of mold, yeast fungi, in an acidic environment it is useful for antimicrobial properties - therefore, cranberries are stored for a long time. fresh.

Sugars are represented by glucose - the main source of energy for various metabolic processes, as well as fructose.

Cranberry is useful for its high content of pectins - water-soluble, it turns liquid into jelly. Pectins are practically not absorbed by the digestive system, they normalize the microflora of the large intestine. Converted by fermentation into fatty acids, they provide energy to microorganisms, as well as to the cells of the mucous membrane, which lines the intestines from the inside.

Sufficient intake of pectins with cranberries normalizes metabolic processes, cleanses the digestive system from harmful substances, lowers blood glucose and levels.

Medicinal use

The antipyretic properties of cranberries are useful for lowering the temperature, vitamin C strengthens the immune system, has an antioxidant effect, therefore berries and juice are used to prevent and treat colds.

Cranberry juice purifies the blood, for which it is consumed according to the scheme:

• First week: 1/2 cup three times a day;
• Second week: 1/2 cup twice a day;
• Third week: 1/2 cup once a day.

Hypertonic disease.

• Mash two glasses of berries, add half a glass granulated sugar, a glass of water, stir, bring to a boil, strain.

Add a few teaspoons to hot water, use instead of tea.

• Grind a glass of berries in a meat grinder, add honey to taste.

Take 1 s.l one hour before meals.

• Stir in a glass of fresh carrot and beetroot juices, add half a glass of cranberry juice, half a glass of vodka.

Take with an increase in blood pressure, 1 s. L. three times per day.

The diuretic properties of cranberries are useful for normalizing increased blood pressure, and without harm to the body due to the high content of potassium in berries.

The use of fresh cranberry berries enhances the secretion of gastric juice, their use is indicated for gastritis with low acidity. Fresh, it is useful to include them in the diet for the prevention of peptic ulcer disease.

According to modern research, cranberry, useful antimicrobial properties, changes the composition of urine - creates unfavorable conditions for the development of infection, and also protects the walls urethra from the penetration of bacteria.

Regular consumption of berries reduces the risk of inflammation in the genitourinary system. Diluted fresh juice is taken for infection urinary tract, to prevent the formation of stones - 1-2 s.l. three times per day. If the cause is correct, drinking cranberry juice does not increase the burning sensation during urination.

Due to the high content of flavonoids, cranberries are useful for treating edema and as a source of natural vitamins. Juice intake is shown in postpartum period, especially if there are complications.

Tea, fruit drink, compote, cranberry jelly

Tea recipe:

• Place 1 tsp. berries in a cup, knead, add granulated sugar, hot water, leave for 10 minutes.

Cranberry tea quenches thirst well, has antipyretic properties, and excites.

Cranberry juice:

Fresh berry recipe:

1. Rinse a glass of berries, let the water drain.
2. Mash the berries with a wooden spoon or spatula through a sieve, collect the juice in a separate glass dish.
3. Add the pomace to a liter of water, bring to a boil, squeeze through cheesecloth.
4. Add up to 100g granulated sugar, boil again, let cool, strain, add cranberry juice.

Frozen cranberry juice recipe:

• Defrost a glass of berries, pass through a juicer, add half a glass of boiled water, sugar or honey to taste.

Cranberry juice is used for influenza, infectious and inflammatory diseases, hypertension, anemia, headache, atherosclerosis. Its diuretic properties are useful in treating the urinary tract and liver. It strengthens the immune system, prevents the formation of kidney stones, improves appetite, is useful for gastritis with low acidity, inflammation of the pancreas.

Cranberry compote recipe:

• Mash 1kg of berries, put in a glass jar, pour syrup (4 glasses of granulated sugar per liter of water), pasteurize liter jar in boiling water for half an hour, half a liter - 20 minutes.

Cranberry jelly recipe:

1. Wash 250g of berries, get juice, which is collected in a separate glass dish.
2. Place the pomace in an enamel pot filled with 1.5 liters of hot water, boil for 4-7 minutes, drain.
3. Add a glass of granulated sugar, bring to a boil, remove the foam.
4. Dilute in a small amount cold water 3sl. , stirring occasionally, pour into the syrup, bring to a boil, add cranberry juice.

Starch can be diluted not in cold water, but in previously obtained juice.

Cranberry vodka

Folk recipe for tincture for cholecystitis:

• Pour 1kg of berries with 0.5L of vodka, leave for 30 hours.

Take 2c l. three times a day half an hour before meals for 12 days to stimulate the activity of the gallbladder in the absence of symptoms chronic cholecystitis(remission).

Cranberry Tincture Recipe for Pneumonia:

• wash 2 cups of berries, pierce each with a needle several times, place in a glass dish;
• add a glass of sugar;
• pour 0.5 liters of vodka, close tightly;
• insist a month in a cool dark place, shake and mix the contents regularly;
• strain at the end.

Take 20-30 drops 3-5 times a day.

Application in cosmetology

• Mix equal amounts of cranberry juice with water, wipe your face in the morning and evening.

If the skin is very oily, wipe the skin with a mixture of 2c. L. juice, 1c. l. vodka, 1c. l. water.

To get rid of blackheads, apply napkins soaked in diluted juice for an hour.

Purulent wounds heal with fresh juice lotions.

Rubbing in fresh cranberry juice helps to peel off nits from hair with head lice.

How to store cranberries, jam recipe

It is best to harvest berries that are stuck in the frost - slightly frozen. To preserve their beneficial properties, they are ground with granulated sugar or frozen.

In a dark, cool place, fresh berries do not spoil for up to three months.

If you put it in jars and pour cold water, you can store up to six months. Change the water every two weeks - it is good for the body, it is drunk with sugar.

Cranberry Jam Recipe:

1. Sort out a kilogram of ripe fresh berries, wash, place in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, drain, let the berries cool.
2. Prepare a syrup (1 kg of granulated sugar, a glass of water), place the berries in it, stir constantly and remove the foam for 8-10 minutes over high heat, then bring it to readiness over low heat, the total time from the moment of boiling is 20-25 minutes.
3. Allow to cool for 8-10 hours, put in clean, dry glass jars, close with plastic lids.

Store jam in a cool place.

Harm and contraindications

Cranberries can be harmful in the case of high acidity, in the presence of gastric ulcer, acute inflammatory processes in the intestines, liver and pancreas.

You should not combine cranberries and juice with antibiotics, be sure to consult your doctor.

Cranberries are contraindicated in case of diseases. small intestine associated with an excess of potassium in the body.

Changed: 10.02.2019

Well-known to all sour, a relative of lingonberry, growing on the territory different parts light, usually in swampy areas. There are many varieties of this berry: all of them are edible and are a source of vitamins and other useful substances, a favorite delicacy for people and an indispensable ingredient in cooking.

Calories, vitamins and minerals

Cranberries are a low-calorie product, however, the number of calories in fresh and dried berries varies greatly (which is understandable, because when dried, moisture leaves the fruits, which is why they repeatedly lose weight).

So, if 100 g of fresh berries contain only 25 Kcal, then the same mass of dried product accounts for more than 300 Kcal. This is worth remembering for those who, intending to lose weight, gnaw dried cranberries all day.
Proteins, fats and carbohydrates in cranberries are contained in the ratio 0,5: 0,2: 3,7.

A distinctive feature of the composition of cranberries is a large number ofpectins... In addition, the berries contain sugars, anthocyanins, catechins, betaine, organic acids- lemon, apple, oxalic, ursolic, chlorogenic, amber, oleander and others.

Did you know? The sour taste is the hallmark of cranberries. Translated from Greek, its name means nothing more than "sour". The shape and red color of the fruits of this evergreen shrub were associated with the blood that heroes shed in the fight against the forces of evil in some peoples.

The main vitamin of cranberry is, of course, ascorbic acid. In terms of the amount of vitamin C, these fruits may well compete with citrus fruits. The berries are dominated by vitamin E, vitamins of group B (1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9), vitamin K1 - phylloquinone.
The mineral composition includes potassium, phosphorus, calcium, as well as others necessary for living organisms the elements- sodium, magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, molybdenum, iodine, zinc. There is a small amount of nickel, silver, tin, cobalt, chromium, titanium, boron and other "representatives" of the periodic table in these fruits.

The benefits of cranberry berries

The beneficial properties of cranberries for the body are determined by its unique composition. So, cranberry:

• improve appetite and, by increasing the production of gastric and pancreatic juice, activate the work digestive system, due to which they are indicated for low acidity and some diseases of the pancreas;
• have a beneficial effect on genitourinary system, have a diuretic effect, contribute to the suppression of development pathogenic bacteria, therefore, indicated for renal disorders;
• endowed with the property stop inflammatory processes and even hinder development malignant neoplasms(especially in the area of ​​the intestines, mammary glands and prostate);
• balance cholesterol levels in the blood, has a beneficial effect on blood vessels, stimulates the work of the heart, relieves headaches, is a good prevention of atherosclerosis and strokes;
• refresh and invigorate, quench thirst and have antipyretic properties, due to which they are indicated for respiratory viral diseases, flu;
• kill harmful flora in the body, they have an anthelmintic effect (experiments show that even spoiled minced meat, to which cranberry concentrate was added, subsequently turned out to be edible and did not cause stomach upsets).

Cranberry juice will bring huge benefit with urinary tract infections, gastritis, cardiovascular diseases colds, coughs and even inflammations oral cavity.

This healing elixir is also endowed with the ability to disinfect wounds and heal burns, as well as increase the effectiveness of antibiotics.

Important! Frozen cranberries contain much less ascorbic acid than fresh cranberries, but they are quite capable of helping to cope with spring vitamin deficiency and strengthen immunity during this period.

Cranberries during pregnancy

A separate topic is the role of cranberries in the life of expectant mothers. As you know, any viral and other acute diseases during pregnancy are especially dangerous, and taking antibiotics during this period can be no less harmful than the infection itself.

On the other side, female body while carrying a baby, it experiences additional stress and therefore is especially at risk of being infected by viruses. Further, the kidneys and genitourinary organs- these are the body systems that are most often affected during pregnancy.
Cranberry with its bactericidal, anti-inflammatory properties, which are manifested both in the general effect on the body and, in particular, in relation to genitourinary system, - during pregnancy simply irreplaceable!

But that's not all. Eating cranberries will help expectant mother get rid of varicose veins that often occur during this period, since this berry has a very beneficial effect on the work of blood vessels. The same property of cranberries ensures the normalization of blood circulation in the placenta, and, therefore, will help the fetus develop normally.

Normalization of metabolic processes, assistance in the assimilation of the necessary for the body mineral substances - another argument in favor of the fact that pregnant women can not only use cranberries, but also need to use them, because there is no reason to doubt or worry about this.

Cranberry Healing Recipes

Important! Never add honey to hot drinks - it not only kills the beneficial properties of the product, but also turns it into poison! Put honey in warm cranberry infusion, and if you prefer to drink it hot, use a bit of honey.

You can use cranberries, already grated with sugar, as a "tea leaves", and you can also eat berries in pure form if you are not confused by its sour taste.

With a cold

Cranberries for colds, flu and respiratory infections accompanied by fever do not just give the body a loading dose necessary in this condition vitamin C, but also has a diaphoretic effect, prevents dehydration of the body, which is especially dangerous when elevated temperature body.
For the treatment of fruits, it is recommended to use in such ways:

• pour chopped cranberries hot water and insist, as indicated in the previous section, to drink in large quantities throughout the day;
• prepare cranberry juice: chop the fruits with a blender, discard on cheesecloth, squeeze the juice. Pour the cake with hot water, bring to a boil and cool. Then strain and mix with juice. Add sugar or honey if desired;
• pure cranberry juice with the addition of honey is also an excellent anti-cold remedy.

With angina

Cranberry juice, prepared in the above way, helps very well with angina.

Did you know? Angina is a bacterial disease: it is caused by streptococci and other microbes that enter the mucous membrane of the throat. That is why, unlike the flu and other viral infections, tonsillitis does not go away on its own, and for its treatment it is necessary to take antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Unfortunately, cranberries alone cannot solve the problem with angina.

Nevertheless, cranberries will come in handy with this unpleasant disease, because they have the property of enhancing the effect of antibacterial drugs.

With hypertension

Cranberries are also shown at high blood pressure... How to brew cranberries was described above.
In addition, to lower blood pressure will help taking cranberry juice- pure or mixed with the same amount of freshly squeezed red beet juice.

There are more cranberry-based complex recipes used for hypertension.

Traditional medicine gives such a recommendation: you need to beat a kilogram of ice cream or fresh berries with a glass with a blender, add half a liter to the mixture and drink one tablespoon three times a day.

Did you know? If you squeezed juice from fresh cranberries, do not throw away the remaining cake, as it is a good way to expand blood vessels and normalize the work of your heart. On the basis of such pomace, you can prepare compote, or you can just chew it like medicine.

With cystitis

Klukovka helps a lot with symptoms of such an unpleasant and painful condition as cystitis.

The secret is that it has the property of pushing out pathogenic microbes from the walls. Bladder and, thus, stop the inflammatory process. The best way to heal is cranberry juice freshly squeezed out: a glass half an hour before meals twice a day - and you're fine!

For diseases of the joints

Cranberry for joint pain relief is taken with a prescription similar to the one used to treat hypertension.

We mix freshly squeezed cranberry and garlic juice in the ratio 5: 2, insist 24 hours, stirring from time to time.

Add honey (twice the volume of berries), mix again and take a teaspoon three times a day 15 minutes before meals.

How is it used in cosmetology

I did not ignore this useful product and cosmetology. It is not surprising, because the sour berry has a beneficial effect on the entire body.
From the cranberry effect, the skin becomes more elastic and taut, acquires youth, velvety and pleasant color. Also, the berry will help get rid of flaking and dryness, remove unhealthy shine and redness, and even eliminate such an unpleasant phenomenon as acne. Cranberries are very beneficial for hair (especially oily type).

To prepare cranberry lotion for oily skin we rub a whole face on a grater, fill it with vodka (250 ml), put it in a dark place and forget it for a week.

After this period, we filter, add a glass of freshly squeezed cranberry juice, 100 ml of boiled water, cooled to room temperature, and a tablespoon of glycerin to the liquid.
We mix all the components well. This lotion is used to rub the skin on the face every day before going to bed.

Based on red berries, you can cook face mask... Grind the fruits in a blender or in a mortar and apply the resulting substance to the already cleansed skin of the face.

Leave it for a quarter of an hour, then wash it off gently with warm water. We repeat the procedure three times a week for a month.

More simple mask can be done simply by wetting cheesecloth with freshly squeezed cranberry juice and applying to face for 15 minutes. Wash off the mask with warm boiled water and apply a moisturizer.

Important! In the presence of acne, we increase the exposure time of the mask to an hour, however, in this case, cranberry juice should be mixed with boiled water, gradually increasing the amount of juice in the solution from 1: 3 to 1: 1.

Cranberries in cooking: what to cook, how to prepare and store

Cranberries are used not only in folk medicine and cosmetology, but also in cooking: due to its sour taste, it is applicable not only in desserts and cocktails, but also in salads and main courses- both meat and fish, including various seafood.

There is no need to talk about all kinds of jams, marmalades, marmalades, jellies, fruit drinks, compotes and kvass, liqueurs and liqueurs.

The product can be used as a culinary ingredient fresh, frozen, dried, soaked, and even pickled. Berry creates unique compositions in an ensemble with citrus fruits and, and even.

Did you know? Z It is extremely simple to prepare and preserve the berry. In addition to the usual freezing and drying, the following option is also suitable: we put clean fruits in sterile jars or even well washed plastic bottles, fill with boiled water,cooled down to room temperature,cork thoroughly - and that's it! The necessary preservatives are contained in the fruits themselves, so no boiling or special additives are required here. However, it is advisable to store such a product in a cellar, refrigerator or other cool place.

- classics of the genre. The berry not only adds a piquant sourness to the product and increases the dose of vitamin C contained in it, but, being an excellent preservative, helps it to be stored better, preventing fermentation and souring.
The berry can be added to the finished oatmeal, endowing the product with even greater benefits and enriching the taste.

The baked bird will sparkle with completely unique notes if you serve it with cranberry sauce. To prepare the sauce, put 0.5 kg of fresh cranberries in a saucepan, two sweet and sour apples cut into slices, half a glass of powdered sugar, a pinch (or stick) of cinnamon and a little water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and boil until thickened. Bon Appetit!

Possible contraindications

Like any potent remedy, cranberries can bring not only benefits, but also harm. The red color of the berry indicates that it is capable of causing allergies (in addition, many suffer from ascorbic acid intolerance).

Important! Despite the benefits of the berry, during pregnancy and even during breastfeeding it is better to limit yourself in the use of cranberries; it is also not recommended to give it to babies before they reach the age of three.

With gout and urolithiasis these berries should be consumed in moderation, but gastritis and ulcers against the background of increased acidity in the exacerbation stage - direct contraindication for the use of the fruits of this shrub.

In order to avoid the harmful effects of the product on the walls of the stomach, it is better for such people (even in remission) to use the berry after a hearty meal.

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341 once already
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Mother Nature gives people generous gifts, rich in vitamins and microelements. After all, it was not in vain that in the old days people were treated with herbs and berries, getting everything they needed in their natural form. The richest source Since ancient times, cranberries have been considered useful substances that save from scurvy, colds and fevers, and strengthen the immune system. Its unique composition has the ability to detoxify the body, and its taste is widely used to make delicious sauces and great desserts.

Cranberry berry: composition and useful properties

A native of the Northern Hemisphere, cranberries grow in wetlands with a cool, humid climate. For the gracefulness of the flower, which resembles the shape of a crane's head, it is called "crane berry", and the richness of its mineral composition makes it a valuable food product for the inhabitants of the northern regions. It retains useful properties until spring. The berries harvested in September are perfectly stored in containers filled with water, long winter... In Russia, the "cranberry" business brought considerable income to the state treasury, and fruit drinks, juices, dried fruit were included in the diet of most residents.

Not inferior to lemon, grapefruit in the content of ascorbic acid (55 mg per 100 g of berries), fresh cranberries have unique properties, give to people useful vitamins and trace elements:

• vitamins:
  • group B - thiamine, niacin and riboflavin;
  • K - phylloquinone;
  • beta-carotene (A) and pyridoxine (B6).
  • folic acid;
• trace elements: potassium, calcium, fluorine, iodine, magnesium, iron, etc.
• organic acids: benzoic, malic, citric.

For its antioxidant properties, cranberries are considered a "rejuvenating" berry. Canadian scientists during clinical research found that the risk of neoplasms in individuals who consume 100-150 g of these berries daily is reduced by 35%. Residents of industrial cities with high level It is vitally important to add air pollution to the diet of cranes, reducing the level of carcinogens in the blood.

Benzoic acid, which is very abundant in cranberries, is a natural preservative, therefore, the beneficial properties of "crane berries" are widely used for conservation. Dried cranberries and leaves of the plant will become a source for strengthening vitality and health during the long months of winter, during the period of spring beriberi. Drinks, fruit drinks, cranberry teas are great energy drinks that enhance the work of the brain and tone the body.

As a natural antibiotic, the miracle berry will speed up the healing process for tonsillitis, colds, viral infections... Useful properties are invaluable for pyelonephritis, cystitis. If you want to cleanse your body of toxins, eat 2 tbsp. spoons of cranberry jam for a month. To clear and thin the blood, no worse than aspirin, fruit drinks and cranberry tinctures will help.

The special acidic properties of cranberries are appreciated in cooking:

• exquisite meat dishes with cranberry sauces will delight gourmets;
• "Cranberries in sugar", cakes, and other confectionery masterpieces will ideally emphasize the compatibility of incompatible tastes - sour and sweet;
• sauerkraut with the addition of cranberries will be not only juicy, crispy, but also very useful.

The use of cranberries for medicinal purposes

The beneficial properties of cranberries are widely used in medicine: traditional and folk. The extract of fruits is used in the manufacture of drugs that reduce the effect of high doses of radioactive radiation. To eliminate the pathogenic environment of the gastrointestinal microflora, pharmacists create medicines based on Oxycoccus, for example Lekran. Ideal combination of fruits and antibacterial therapy... It should not be forgotten that the use of any drugs has contraindications, therefore, consultations with a doctor are necessary.

The use of cranberries will be useful, without contraindications, for the body with such diseases:

1. cordially- vascular system;
2. genitourinary diseases;
3. pyelonephritis;
4. periodontal disease, scurvy;
5. low acidity of the stomach;
6. diabetes mellitus;
7. colds, viral, bacterial infections;
8. treatment of wounds and burns;
9. the appearance of a capillary network on the skin.

With high blood pressure

The significant content of flavonoids in cranberries strengthens the walls of blood vessels, prevents the formation of plaques, and promotes the resorption of blood clots. The beneficial properties of the fruit are good for increasing the elasticity of the capillaries. A mild, gradual decrease in elevated blood pressure is a distinctive feature of cranberries. Grind the required amount through a sieve or beat with a blender. Weigh the resulting mousse and add natural honey to it (1: 1). Taking a tablespoon half an hour before meals 3 times a day for a month's course normalizes blood pressure.

For colds

A natural antibiotic, cranberries have the beneficial properties of lowering fever by enriching the body with vitamin C, which is essential for colds. Do not forget about contraindications, replace if the last fruits are available with rose hips or raspberries. Warm tea with dried berries, plant leaves, will get rid of viruses; relieve sore throat. Those who take the "tasty" medicine will be able to assess the benefits of treatment, the beneficial properties of cranberries:

• Cranberry juice. You will need 250 g of berries, a liter of water, 100 g of sugar, boil for 10 minutes and let it brew.
• Vitamin-honey tea. 100 g of berries, 5 - 6 cranberry leaves, 20 g of honey, pour boiling water. Drink warm. Helps with bronchitis, sore throat, tracheitis.

With diabetes mellitus

"Good" cholesterol, formed with constant consumption of cranberry fruit drinks, juices, normalizes metabolism. Stimulating the activity of the pancreas by taking 200 - 250 ml of a pure drink leads to a decrease in sugar values ​​in type II diabetics, stabilization of the indicator - for type I disease. Low calorie content of cranberries, replenishment of nutrients in the body are the most important beneficial properties of fruits for improving the quality of existence of diabetics.

With weakened immunity

Avitaminosis, decreased immunity is a serious reason to introduce a miracle berry into the diet. Useful properties of cranberry jam (raw berries, ground with sugar 1: 1) will replenish the supply of trace elements; fruit drinks will help to restore strength, vigor. To effectively resist bacteria, the body needs to get at least 50 g of cranberry extract or 250 ml of juice per day. An excellent means of increasing immunity will be "union" sauerkraut with cranberries, 200 g of which will save you from flu and colds every day in winter.

During pregnancy

For expectant mothers, the use of cranberries is very useful, but it is associated with some contraindications. Useful actions berries increase immunity, give strength, energy, stimulate the development of the baby's vascular system, improve mental abilities. Reducing puffiness, increasing adaptability to hormonal changes- a huge plus of cranberry drinks. However, doctors warn: uncontrollably get carried away so useful fruits pregnant women should not be possible contraindications- allergic reactions, increased gastric acidity.

With kidney disease

The diuretic properties of cranberries, a powerful anti-inflammatory effect will become indispensable for diseases of the kidneys, genitourinary system. Cranberry kvass (0.5 kg of berries, 2 l of water, a glass of sugar, 50 g of yeast) has a useful property to wash out sand, prevent the formation of stones; freshly squeezed juice - 200 ml - in case of cystitis, it will quickly remove pain lower abdomen, relieving inflammation. The advantage of the berry is that in the presence of diuretic properties, the reserves of potassium and magnesium are not washed out from the body.

How to prepare berries for the winter

For harvesting for the winter, whole berries with an intact shell will be good. The best option storage will be a container (barrel) with water, where berries are immersed, located in a dark cool room. Cranberries do not lose their beneficial properties when frozen or dried. Delicious delicacy cranberry jam, which does not require heat treatment, will save you from colds. Compotes, juices, fruit drinks, prepared for the winter, lose some of the useful properties, therefore, it is preferable to cook them before eating, using frozen fruits, dried twigs, plant leaves.

Video recipe: how to make cranberry juice

Cranberry juice is a pleasant soft drink prepared on the basis of freshly squeezed juice, water, sugar (honey). To prepare a healthy vitamin cocktail that protects against viruses, strengthens strength, and has anti-inflammatory properties, prepare:

• small sieve;
• salad bowl (bowl) for freshly squeezed juice;
• a pot of water;
• ingredients: washed, sorted berries and sugar.

Contraindications to the use of berries

The beneficial properties of the berry are priceless, even taking into account the contraindications, side effects... To neutralize the latter, do not overuse the amount - and your body will be under reliable protection. The main contraindications for the inclusion of cranberries in the diet are:

• allergic reactions;
• gastritis;
• peptic ulcer;
• increased acidity of the gastrointestinal tract,
• liver disease.

Cranberries are delicious and useful berry growing in a swamp. This is a short evergreen plant with shoots about 30 cm long. A lot can be said about the beneficial properties of cranberries, it is not in vain that it is used both for the preparation of medicines and for food.

General information and chemical composition

V medicinal purposes both leaves and berries of cranberries are used, and there are still more nutrients in its fruits than in the leaves. Typically, cranberries are harvested in the fall, when they are fully ripe. But cranberries can survive the winter, in the spring they become even tastier, but by this time there are fewer vitamins in the berries, and they are not stored for long.

It is best to pick cranberries in October, when the berries are juicy, thin-skinned and dark red in color. If cranberries are harvested during freezing, they are stored frozen.

The berries contain a lot of benzoic acid, so they retain their freshness for a long time without heat treatment and preservatives.

Cranberries are very rich in citric acid, which is why they are called northern lemon. There are also benzoic, ursular, chlorogenic, malic acids, tannins, fructose, glucose and sucrose.

Cranberries contain sufficient quantities of pectins, vitamins C, B, K1 groups, flavonoids, betaine, phenolic acids, anthocyanins, leukoanthocyanins, catechins. Of the micro- and macroelements in cranberries, there are phosphorus, potassium, calcium, iron, manganese, copper, molybdenum, iodine, magnesium, boron, cobalt, nickel, tin, lead, titanium, silver, chromium, zinc.

Beneficial features

Thanks to this set of useful substances, cranberries are used as a medicinal, vitamin and general tonic. It has anti-inflammatory, diuretic, bactericidal, antiscorbutic, anti-sclerotic properties.

Cranberries are useful for hypertension, metabolic disorders, weakened immunity, frequent colds, gastritis with low acidity, sore throat, inflammation of the kidneys, bladder, urinary tract.

Cranberries increase the acidity of urine, therefore it is considered good prophylactic, preventing the formation of kidney stones.

Due to the high content of iron and phosphorus, beaks are useful for anemia, they improve blood composition and activate blood circulation.

Cranberry improves visual acuity, helps heal glaucoma and others eye diseases, improves conditions for rheumatism and arthritis, Addison's disease, diabetes mellitus, acts as an antiemetic

Cranberry helps in the treatment of hair loss, urticaria, vitiligo, psoriasis. Cranberries are especially necessary for cancer, thrombophlebitis, tuberculosis, vasculitis.

Cranberries can be used to treat pressure ulcers, remove age spots, used as an insecticidal agent for head lice.

Cranberry juice can be used to treat wounds from burns and skin diseases, to make an ointment from it. And with anemia and inflammation female organs it is useful to drink juice with sugar or honey.

Cranberries also have contraindications. So, with gastritis with high acidity, it can only be consumed in small doses... The same applies to admission for gastrointestinal ulcers, especially during an exacerbation. Cranberries are contraindicated for acute inflammations in the intestines, stomach, liver, for these diseases, cranberries are used together with other fruits or medicinal herbs... And yet, in cranberry potions, the benefits significantly outweigh the harm, especially if taken at the correct dosage.

Storage

To preserve the beneficial properties of cranberries, several methods are used, these are drying, freezing, urinating, drying. Without heat treatment, cranberries are stored in a dark, cool place with good ventilation, while it is necessary to exclude the ingress of direct sun rays for berries. The berries are stored in plastic or wooden trays and bags.

All useful substances are stored in soaked cranberries; for this, the berries are washed, sorted, put in glass or wooden dishes, and poured with cold water. From above, the container is covered with parchment and a lid with a load. Sometimes a little sugar, salt, spices are added to the water.

Dried cranberries are similar in appearance to raisins. The berries are sorted out, washed, poured with sugar syrup, boiled over low heat for 10-15 minutes, then cooled, taken out of the syrup and transferred to a baking sheet covered with parchment. The baking sheet is placed in an oven heated to 60 degrees for 3 hours, after which the parchment is changed, and the baking sheet is put back in the oven for 6 hours.

Cranberries are dried as follows: 400 grams of berries are poured into a pan and 200 ml of cold water are poured, brought to a boil, kept over medium heat for 5 minutes. Then the berries are cooled and spread on a baking sheet covered with parchment.

The baking sheet is placed in the oven and dried at a temperature of 65 degrees for about 9 hours. At the same time, every 2-3 hours the parchment is changed so that the moisture evaporates more quickly.

Cranberries preserved in this way are suitable for preparing fruit drinks and other dishes.

Folk recipes

Infusions, tinctures and decoctions of cranberries are not at all difficult to make at home, these are easy to prepare and useful means taste good, especially when drunk with sugar or honey. They can also be given to small children, but in limited quantities. For the preparation of tasty and healthy drinks and products, cranberries are used alone, or in a mixture with other foods and herbs. The recipes below tell you how to make preparations from cranberry berries and leaves.

Recipe 1.

Cranberry decoction for hypertension. Mash 2 cups of cranberries, add 1 cup of water, half a cup of sugar, put on fire and bring to a boil. Remove from heat, let it brew, drink instead of tea, diluted with water. It is not necessary to filter.

Recipe 2.

Infusion for atherosclerosis, hypertension, gastritis with low acidity, colitis, metabolic disorders. 10 berries and 1 tbsp. crushed cranberry leaves should be put in a thermos and pour 200 ml of boiling water. Insist for 4 hours, strain, add a little boiled water, divide into 3 parts, drink during the day, regardless of food intake.

Recipe 3.

Infusion for joint pain in rheumatism and arthritis. 4 tablespoons grind cranberries with 2 tbsp. sugar, pour 600 ml of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes. Drink 1 glass three times a day one hour after a meal. The course is 10 days.

Recipe 4.

Cranberry infusion for shortness of breath. 1 tbsp Pour 200 ml of boiling water over crushed leaves, leave for half an hour, drink with honey or sugar.

Recipe 5.

Make a mixture of crushed cranberry leaves and fruits. Take 2 tablespoons. mixture, pour 400 ml of hot water, boil for 10 minutes over low heat. Then remove from heat, cool and strain. Drink the prepared broth in 100 ml 4-5 times a day for diarrhea.

Recipe 6.

Infusion for glomerulonephritis. 1 tbsp grind berries, pour a glass of boiling water, leave for 2-3 hours, drink in 2-3 doses. You don't need to filter.

Recipe 7.

To rinse open wounds, cranberries need to be boiled. 1 tbsp berries are poured with a glass of boiling water, brought to a boil, boiled for 2-3 minutes, cooled and filtered. The broth is used as a disinfectant, antiseptic.

Recipe 8.

Tea with a breakdown, nervous exhaustion, colds. Pour some black or green tea leaves into the teapot, put 1 tbsp. mashed cranberries, pour in 1 tbsp. sugar, pour boiling water. You can drink without measure, like regular tea.

Recipe 9.

A remedy for hypertension - cranberries with honey. Grind 1 cup of cranberries in a mortar, add 1 cup of honey, mix everything thoroughly. There is a mixture you need for 2-3 tsp. with tea after meals.

Recipe 10.

Honey with cranberry juice for rheumatism, flu, cough, sore throat, bronchitis, radiation sickness. Mix equal proportions of cranberry juice and honey. Take the remedy according to the following scheme: the first week - 3 times a day, 100 ml; the second week - twice a day, 100 ml; the third week - 1 time per day, 100 ml. It is necessary to carry out 2 courses of treatment per year.

Recipe 11.

Remedy for sore throat. Mix 200 ml of cranberry juice with 3 tbsp. honey, gargle the throat with the mixture 2-3 times a day, and after rinsing, drink 2-3 tbsp. mixtures.

Recipe 12.

Cranberry juice for cystitis. 500 grams of cranberries must be chopped in a juicer, add 2 liters of water, a glass of sugar and cook over low heat for 1 minute. Cool, drink, without straining, 1-1.5 liters per day, regardless of food.

Recipe 13.

For the prevention of cystitis, it is enough to eat 3-4 tablespoons. berries every day, making them fruit drink, jelly, or a mixture with sugar and honey.

Recipe 14.

Cranberry juice for cystitis. Put 500 grams of berries in a Teflon saucepan, put on low heat, add 600 ml of water, 1 tsp. lemon juice... Bring to a boil and cook for 15 minutes to burst all the berries.

Then remove from heat, rub the berries through a sieve, add a pinch of salt. Pour the juice into a container, into which ¼ glass of sugar was previously poured. Mix the juice with sugar, refrigerate for 30 minutes, drink 100 ml for cystitis. The juice prepared according to this recipe can be used for the kidneys, and also as an antipyretic agent.

Recipe 15.

Migraine remedy. Mix cranberry and potato juices in equal proportions, drink 50 ml 3 times a day 20-30 minutes before meals.

Recipe 16.

With vasospasm and hypertension, freshly prepared beet and cranberry juices are mixed in equal quantities, drunk in the same way as in the previous recipe.

Recipe 17.

Cranberry tincture with alcohol. To prepare it, you will need 600 grams of fresh berries, 500 ml of vodka or alcohol, 500 grams of sugar, 400 ml of water. The berries are ground, mixed with sugar and alcohol, covered with a lid, placed in a dark place for 30-40 days. After the end of this period, filter and store in the refrigerator.

Cranberry tincture is a good remedy for strengthening the immune system, improving appetite and reducing fever.

Recipe 18.

Tincture on cognac. 500 ml of cognac will require 250 grams of berries, 150 ml of water, 150 grams of sugar. Pour the berries with hot water, add sugar, grind with a crush, pour in brandy, mix, insist in a warm place for 3 hours, filter. You can drink the tincture as a dessert drink, or as remedy to increase appetite and strengthen the immune system.

Recipe 19.

Vitamin, general tonic. To prepare it, you need to take 1 glass of cranberries, raisins, peeled walnuts, honey, 500 grams of dried apricots and 1 lemon. All components are passed through a meat grinder, seeds are preliminarily removed from the lemon, but the zest is not cleaned. Add honey to the mixture and mix everything. Put in a cool place. Adults take 1 tbsp. in the morning and in the evening, children - 1 dessert spoon.

Recipe 20.

Cranberries for the kidneys - to treat nephritis, you need to make cranberry kvass. To do this, pour 500 grams of berries with 2 liters of water, add 3 cups of sugar, bring to a boil. Remove from heat, add 50 grams of dry yeast. Place the container with the drink in a warm place. After 24 hours, the kvass is filtered and put into the refrigerator. For the treatment of kidneys, you need to drink 3 glasses of kvass per day.

Cranberriescontain all kinds of acids, including cinchona, citric (there is a lot of it, therefore this berry is called northern lemon), ursolic, benzoic, malic, chlorogenic and some others. Also cranberry rich in different types sugars (fructose, sucrose, glucose). Also in sufficient quantity in cranberries contains polysaccharides (pectins). As for vitamins, cranberry contains, in addition to vitamin C, B vitamins (B1, B2, B5, B6), vitamin PP, phylloquinone (vitamin K1) and many others.

Cranberry fruit contain betaine and bioflavonoids (leukoanthocyanins, catechins, phenolic acids, flavonols, anthocyanins), as well as a large number of useful micro and macro elements (molybdenum, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, etc.). Besides in cranberries discovered zinc, tin, copper, iron, manganese, chromium, zinc, silver, titanium, boron, cobalt, etc. Due to such a rich composition mineral salts and biologically active substances, cranberry is truly one of the healthiest berries in the world.

Cranberries - healing properties

Medicinal raw materials used in cranberries, these are mainly berries and sometimes leaves. If we talk about the content of biologically active substances, then cranberry is the leader among berries, only black currant can compare with it.

Among the people, cranberries are considered to be a natural antibiotic that helps the body fight against various diseases. Cranberry juice for a long time they have necessarily been used in the fight against fever. It has been used as a diaphoretic, antipyretic, and diuretic. Scientists have proven that cranberry enhances the effect of drug antibiotics at times, and this is very important in our time, because emerging bacteria become more and more resistant to their effects. Generally eating cranberries normalizes metabolic processes, and also strengthens the resistance of the human body to all kinds of diseases.

Drinking cranberry juice helps to remove toxins and toxins from the body. Beverages from cranberries, as well as the use of the cranberry berries themselves helps in the treatment of gums, as well as other diseases of the oral cavity. Eating cranberries also improves the functioning of the biliary system and kidneys and prevents the occurrence of genitourinary infections.

Research carried out by scientists has shown that the consumption of fresh cranberry juice and berries prevents the formation of blood vessels blood clots and normalizes cholesterol metabolism. If you eat cranberries regularly, then vascular elasticity and their strength increases several times.

Eating cranberries recommended for the treatment of gynecological diseases, tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, anemia, acne and acne, hair loss, etc. , decoctions from this berry and directly from the fruits themselves, relieves tissue swelling, reduces the sensation of pain and, in general, contributes to a speedy recovery.

Cranberries - methods of consumption and use

As stated above, cranberry Is a versatile product that can be consumed in any form (juice, fruit drink, jelly, kvass, syrup, jam, broth, etc.). All this is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals.

Cranberries are eaten fresh with sugar or honey. Very tasty and very healthy vegetable salads with the addition of cranberries, in particular with cabbage and beets. Beetroot and cranberry salads it is recommended to use it for various disorders of the thyroid gland, and especially for its tumor degeneration.

In folk medicine, it is widely used cranberry decoctions and infusions... So, when treating hypertension, it is recommended to use such cranberry broth... Add 200 ml of water, 100 gr. To 2 glasses of crushed cranberries. sugar and bring the mixture to a boil. Then strain, dilute to taste with water and use as a tea.

In case of metabolic disorders, colitis, gastritis, atherosclerosis and, again, hypertension, it is recommended to use infusion of cranberry leaves... One tablespoon of cranberry leaves and no more than 10 berries is poured with boiling water in a thermos and infused for 4 hours. Next, the infusion must be filtered and brought to the original volume with boiled water.

For rheumatism and arthritis, traditional medicine uses cranberry infusion as an anesthetic. To prepare it, you need 4 tbsp. grind cranberry berries with 2 tbsp. spoons of sugar and pour all 3 tbsp. boiling water. Let it brew and take the remedy one hour after a meal 3 times a day.

Cranberries in folk medicine it is used not only internally, but also externally. So, allergic rashes, acne, acne are rubbed with cranberry juice. Cranberry juice very effectively relieves inflammation and irritation. Also, an ointment is prepared from cranberries for external use. To prepare it, mix 20 ml of freshly squeezed cranberry juice with 40 g of petroleum jelly and 40 g of lanolin. Cranberry ointment reduces inflammation, has analgesic and antiseptic effects, and dries out wet and decaying areas. Also cranberry ointment is an excellent treatment for pressure ulcers.

In conclusion, we want to say that eating cranberries has contraindications. It is strongly not recommended to use cranberries for people with increased acidity of the stomach, suffering from gastritis, liver diseases, and peptic ulcer duodenum and stomach.

Be healthy!