Cranberry extract is produced from the fruit of Vaccinium macrocarpon (American cranberry) through juice concentration and standardized extraction. The extract is rich in type-A proanthocyanidins (PACs), which are the bioactive compounds responsible for cranberry's ability to prevent bacterial adhesion to urinary tract epithelial cells.
It also contains anthocyanins, organic acids, and flavonols. Clinical evidence supports cranberry extract for reducing urinary tract infection (UTI) recurrence. Commercially, it is used in UTI prevention supplements, women's health formulations, and antioxidant nutraceutical products.
