Evidence supporting the use of: Cranberry
For the health condition: Urination (burning or painful)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is commonly used to support urinary tract health, particularly in the context of preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can cause symptoms such as burning or painful urination (dysuria). The scientific rationale for cranberry use centers on its content of proanthocyanidins, which are believed to inhibit the adhesion of certain bacteria (notably Escherichia coli) to the urinary tract lining, thereby reducing the likelihood of infection. Multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses have examined cranberry’s effectiveness, with mixed results. Some studies suggest a modest reduction in recurrent UTIs, while others find little or no significant benefit compared to placebo. Importantly, cranberry products do not treat active infections or directly relieve burning or pain associated with current UTIs; rather, they may play a preventive role. The evidence is generally stronger for prevention than for symptom relief, and the overall effect size is small. Clinical guidelines sometimes mention cranberry as an option for UTI prevention, particularly in women with recurrent infections, but do not recommend it as a primary treatment for dysuria or acute infection. In summary, cranberry is supported by some scientific evidence for prevention of UTIs (which may help reduce episodes of painful urination), but its efficacy specifically for treating the symptom of burning or painful urination is not well established.

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