Alpine Cranberry
Parts Usually Used
Leaves, berries
Description of Plant(s) and Culture
Alpine cranberry is a small evergreen plant; grows from a creeping rootstock to a height of 4-10 inches. The leaves are alternate, obovate, pale green with brown spots underneath, and have rolled edges. Its reddish-white, bell-shaped flowers grow in a terminal cluster from May to August. The fruit is a red berry.
Where Found
Grows in European coniferous forests with dry soil and also in mountain marshes.
Medicinal Properties
Leaves: antiseptic, astringent, diuretic Berries: astringent, refrigerant
Legends, Myths and Stories
The common cranberry is called “Mui” by the Chinese because the shape of the fruit resembles a small plum or tiny peach. Bottled commercial cranberry juice (not cranberry drinks) can be substituted for fresh when the fresh cranberry is not available. Commercially prepared cranberry juice beverages are often laden with sugar and high in calories. Be sure to obtain the pure juice.
Uses
Historical herbalists used an infusion of the leaves for bladder complaints, while a decoction of the leaves was traditionally administered for gout and rheumatism. In various recipes and formulas, alpine cranberry served as a milder-tasting substitute for bearberry. The berries were historically consumed as food, to stimulate the appetite, and as a traditional remedy for diarrhea.
How Sold
Commercially prepared cranberry juice beverages are often laden with sugar and high in calories. Capsules of cranberry extract are available in health food stores and are not only more potent but fewer calories.
Bibliography
The Herb Book , by John Lust, Bantam Books, 666 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY. copyright 1974. The Nature Doctor: A Manual of Traditional and Complementary Medicine , by Dr. A. , 27 Pine Street (Box 876) New Canaan, CT. 06840-0876. Copyright Verlag A. , Lotus Press, PO Box 325, Twin Lakes. , West Nyack, NY, 1987. , 15 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10023