Lingonberry, scientific name Vaccinium vitis idaea, also known as mountain cranberry or cowberry, is an evergreen shrub belonging to the Ericaceae family. Each part of the plant represents a valid remedy to treat different urinary and digestive tract disorders, but let's understand better.
Fruits of lingonberry
Lingonberry is characterized by red and sour berries that can be taken dried or in the form of juice. The fruits counteract chronic inflammation in the body and urinary tract infections such as cystitis and urethritis. In addition to this, lingonberries protect the intestinal microbiota, which is made up of the bacterial flora that lives in our gut (Heyman Linden et al, Food Nutr Res, 2016 - Kontiokari et al, BMJ, 2001). It is important to have a healthy microbiota because in this way not only digestion works better but also the immune system, there are benefits for the mood and in the regulation of body weight.
Glycerine macerate of lingonberry
Glycerine macerate is obtained from the young shoots of the lingonberry. This remedy is characterized by an anti-inflammatory and antihypertensive action and is able to regulate the functioning of the intestine (Natural Medicine from A to Z, Brigo). Hence the lingonberry glycerine macerate is useful in case of irritable bowel, meteorism, but also urinary tract infections such as cystitis and urethritis. The macerate is taken in the dose of 50 drops 1 time a day in a little water between meals. If you are taking medications, ask your doctor for advice to check for any interactions.
Leaves of lingonberry
Lingonberry leaves are also an interesting natural remedy. Dried leaves can be found in herbalist’s shops or online to prepare herbal teas useful both to prevent and to treat urinary tract infections, stomach problems, rheumatism and hypercholesterolemia (Raudone et al, Molecules, 2019). These properties of lingonberry leaves are due to their content in antioxidants, such as proanthocyanidin and flavonoids.
