They are a rich source of vitamin C, so a daily dose will keep colds and runny noses at bay. And the cranberry is an invaluable source of fibre.
At this time of year, changing seasons means unpredictable weather - sunny days, chilly air and freezing nights - which means our bodies need time to adjust to the changing temperatures. This often results in colds and flu as we run down and tired. Instead of filling yourself with drugs, you can look after your health through the use of eons old, tried and tested, natural remedies. In much the same way our pagan ancestors got through dark winter months, so too can we, if we turn our attention to natural foods and healers.
Cranberry is a natural healer
Part of the Vaccinium family of blueberries, bilberries and cowberries, cranberries were used by ancient mariners and indigneous tribes of the Americas and Northern Europe to treat gout, scurvy, eyesight, digestive and other skin related conditions. They were added to brews and liquors to add gusto and mixed with meat and fat to create a sustaining mash on long hunting trips.
Thankfully we're over the scurvy days, but we still need to consume high quantities of high potency vitamin C and A in order to combat many modern ailments and conditions, and cranberries offer an ideal method of ingestion.
Digestive stimulator
They stay fresh through long snowy winters so are associated with winter foods and have become a staple part of feasting (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Sunday roasts etc). But their appearance on the dinner table isn't just timing. Cranberry sauce is traditionally served with meats, game and Christmas dinner because cranberries are digestive stimulators. They help break down fatty foods and increase your own ability to digest rich foods easier.
Health benefits
A daily dose of fresh cranberry juice or some organic dried berries can have remarkable effect:
- Potent source of vitamin C
- Fights fever, protects from colds
- Low sugar content
- High in fibre
- Digestive stimulator
- Cures diarrhoea and dysentry due to anthocyanins - highly nutritious flavonoids
- Treat urinary tracts disorders, esp. cystitis
Cranberry skincare
Want lush rejuvenation of your skin? Cranberries are rich in anthocyanins and caroteinoids and vitamin a - all beneficial to your skin colour. The vitamin C helps produce collagen which firms your skin. Generally speaking, the berry delays the signs of aging. Just look at quality skin care products to see how often it is listed as an ingredient.
Cranberries for kids
