What is Cranberry Extract used for?

Cranberry Extract is mainly used to support urinary tract health, especially to help reduce the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). It is also used for antioxidant support.

How does Cranberry Extract help with UTIs?

Compounds such as proanthocyanidins may help reduce bacterial adhesion (including E. coli) to the urinary tract lining. This may lower the chance of bacteria establishing an infection.

What is a typical dosage for Cranberry Extract?

Common supplemental amounts are about 300–500 mg per day, depending on the product and its standardization. Follow the label directions and consider clinician guidance for recurrent UTIs.

Does Cranberry Extract treat an active UTI?

It is generally used for prevention rather than treatment. If you have symptoms of an active UTI, seek medical evaluation because antibiotics or other treatment may be needed.

Who should be cautious with Cranberry Extract?

People with a history of kidney stones, those taking blood thinners, or anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a clinician before use. Stop use and seek advice if you develop side effects or allergic symptoms.

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Cranberry
Extract

Moderate study situation·7/10

A higher score indicates better study conditions, but not necessarily effectiveness.

Cranberry extract is a fruit-derived supplement used mainly to help prevent urinary tract infections and provide antioxidant support.

Anti-inflammatory Cardiovascular Support Antioxidant Kidney Health

dose range

300–500 mg

Once daily with food

Consumption

Take 300–500 mg of standardized cranberry extract daily with a meal. Higher doses (up to 1500 mg) may be used under medical supervision for short-term management.

Not fat-soluble.

Best time

Preferably take with the first meal of the day.

Description

Cranberry extract, sourced from Vaccinium macrocarpon, is widely used for urinary tract health and contains bioactive compounds like proanthocyanidins with potential health benefits.

benefits

Main effects with level of evidence

Moderate

Note on evidence

Evidence is strongest for UTI prevention, with moderate support for cardiovascular and antioxidant benefits.

Supports Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Strong

Cranberry extract reduces the risk of recurrent UTIs, especially in women, by preventing bacteria like E. coli from adhering to urinary tract walls.

Particularly relevant for: Women with recurrent UTIs · Individuals prone to UTIs

S1 · PubMed: Cranberry Products for the Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections S2 · NIH NCCIH: Cranberry S5 · Cochrane Review: Cranberries for Preventing Urinary Tract Infections

Provides Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Support

Moderate

Rich in antioxidants, cranberry extract may help lower oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting cellular health.

Particularly relevant for: Adults seeking antioxidant support

S2 · NIH NCCIH: Cranberry S3 · WebMD: Cranberry

May Support Cardiovascular Health

Limited

Some studies show cranberry extract can improve blood lipid profiles and endothelial function, possibly lowering cardiovascular risk factors.

Particularly relevant for: Individuals at risk of cardiovascular disease

S3 · WebMD: Cranberry S4 · EFSA: Scientific Opinion on Cranberry Extract

Safety & Information

Important safety information & known risks

For educational purposes only • not medical advice

Cranberry extract is generally safe for healthy adults at typical doses, but caution is required for certain risk groups.

warning notices

Mild gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach upset or diarrhea may occur, especially at high doses.
Cranberry extract is high in oxalate, which may promote kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals.
Potential interactions with warfarin or other blood thinners can increase bleeding risk.
Avoid use if you have a history of kidney stones due to oxalate content.
Use cautiously with blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin) due to potential for increased bleeding risk.
Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent gastrointestinal upset.

Known interactions with medications

Warfarin and other anticoagulants

Contraindications / special precautions

History of kidney stones
Active gastrointestinal distress
Ongoing warfarin therapy without monitoring

interactions

Important interactions between active ingredient ↔ supplement / medication / food

Cranberry extract has significant interactions with certain medications and may affect people prone to kidney stones.

May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing bleeding risk.

drug · Warfarin

CautionModerate

Why

Cranberry may inhibit warfarin metabolism, leading to higher blood levels.

recommendation

Monitor INR closely and consult with a healthcare provider before combining.

S2 · NIH NCCIH: Cranberry S3 · WebMD: Cranberry

Increased risk of kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals.

lifestyle · History of kidney stones

AvoidLimited

Why

Cranberry is high in oxalates, contributing to stone formation.

recommendation

Avoid use if you have a history of kidney stones.

S2 · NIH NCCIH: Cranberry S3 · WebMD: Cranberry

mechanisms of action

Brief explanations of how it works

Inhibits Bacterial Adhesion in the Urinary Tract

Proanthocyanidins in cranberry extract inhibit E. coli from attaching to the lining of the urinary tract, reducing infection risk.

S1 · PubMed: Cranberry Products for the Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections S5 · Cochrane Review: Cranberries for Preventing Urinary Tract Infections

Antioxidant Protection Against Free Radical Damage

Cranberry extract contains polyphenols that neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

S2 · NIH NCCIH: Cranberry S3 · WebMD: Cranberry

Sources & References

Primary literature and reviews on which these statements are based

5 sources

PubMed: Cranberry Products for the Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections

NIH NCCIH: Cranberry

WebMD: Cranberry

EFSA: Scientific Opinion on Cranberry Extract

Cochrane Review: Cranberries for Preventing Urinary Tract Infections

Laatst bijgewerkt: 13 september 2026

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.

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Botanicals & Natural Substances

164 items

CranberryExtract

Description

benefits

Supports Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Provides Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Support

May Support Cardiovascular Health

Safety & Information

interactions

May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing bleeding risk.

Increased risk of kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals.

mechanisms of action

Inhibits Bacterial Adhesion in the Urinary Tract

Antioxidant Protection Against Free Radical Damage

Sources & References

Botanicals & Natural Substances

Andere categorieën

Safety & Information

interactions

May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing bleeding risk.

Increased risk of kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals.

mechanisms of action

Inhibits Bacterial Adhesion in the Urinary Tract

Antioxidant Protection Against Free Radical Damage

Sources & References

Cranberry
Extract