Alpine Cranberry
Vaccinium vitis-idaea
Vaccinium vitis-idaea, commonly known as lingonberry, is a small evergreen shrub native to northern Europe and North America. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively documented in any specific medical or folk practices. Scientific evidence suggests potential health benefits from lingonberry extract, particularly in relation to cancer. One study indicates that PSMB8 may be a key mediator of the anticancer effect of lingonberry extract in HepG2 cells. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and understand their broader implications for human health. The plant's macronutrient composition can vary based on environmental factors such as forest density and tree species, with denser forests containing less nonstructural carbohydrates but more protein and lignin. Additionally, warming temperatures have been observed to affect the flowering patterns of lingonberry, with different impacts depending on when the temperature changes occur. Safety concerns for Vaccinium vitis-idaea are minimal; no major issues or drug interactions have been recorded in existing literature.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- This study identifies PSMB8 as a key mediator of the anticancer effect of lingonberry extract in HepG2 cells.
- The macronutrient composition of cowberry was significantly altered by forest density and tree species composition, with denser forests containing less nonstructural carbohydrates but more protein and lignin.
- Warming in the initiation year resulted in delayed flowering for Vaccinium vitis-idaea, while warming in the flowering year led to earlier flowering.
- Primary fermentation led to species-dependent changes in phenolic composition, increasing or decreasing total phenolics in different Vaccinium species.
- Fruits from different provenances of lingonberry showed varying levels of phenolic and osmoprotective compounds under different ripening temperatures.
Frequently asked questions
What is Alpine Cranberry?
Alpine Cranberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Alpine Cranberry?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Alpine Cranberry; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: This study identifies PSMB8 as a key mediator of the anticancer effect of lingonberry extract in HepG2 cells.
How strong is the evidence for Alpine Cranberry?
The strongest finding for Alpine Cranberry carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Alpine Cranberry safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Alpine Cranberry in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Alpine Cranberry interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Alpine Cranberry in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Alpine Cranberry?
Alpine Cranberry is also known as: брусника, airelle rouge.
Is Alpine Cranberry a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Primary Fermentation in Wine Production Influence on Phenolic Retention and Valorization Potential of Berry Skin By-Products. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Forest stand characteristics drive the macronutrient composition of Vaccinium winter forage for cervids. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Contrasting effects of experimental warming in the initiation year and the flowering year on flower phenology of boreal understory species. literature abstract metadata
- T2 PSMB8 as a Core Target Mediating the Anti-Hepatocellular Carci-Noma Activity of Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) Extract in HepG2 Cells. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Temperature effects on oxidative, phenolic and osmoprotective traits in lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) fruits from contrasting provenances. literature abstract metadata