Phytochemicals from the Fruit and Foliage of Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) - Potential Benefits for Human Health

Abstract

Cranberry fruit and foliage (Vaccinium macrocarpon) contains bioactive compounds that have been found to limit microbial infections, oxidative processes, inflammation, and cell proliferation. Some of these secondary metabolites also play a protective role in the plant against pests and fungal pathogens. Bioactive constituents in the plant include flavonol and anthocyanin glycosides, oligomeric proanthocyanidins, substituted hydroxycinnamic acids and derivatives, other organic acids, iridoids, carotenoids, and triterpenoids. Because cranberries have a unique and diverse phytochemical composition, multiple protective mechanisms are possible. Recent studies employing in vitro and in vivo models of human diseases suggest that cranberry fruit is an excellent source of secondary metabolites that help maintain urinary tract and oral health, and protect against certain cancers and other diseases associated with aging. Similar phenolic secondary metabolites have been identified in cranberry foliage, including derivatives of p-coumaric acid and quercetin glycosides that may serve a dual purpose as antioxidants and as protection against pests. Recent data suggests that constituents of cranberry fruit and foliage can inhibit the growth of human fungal pathogens including Candida species.