Botanical perspectives on health: of cystitis and cranberries.

With generalised increased use of antibiotics there has been the accompanying development of antibiotic resistance. It has been suggested that the therapy of uncomplicated cystitis is one area in which it is possible to reduce the usage of such compounds. Many women have long drunk cranberry juice--and it has become an 'old-wives' tale in the treatment of this infection. Perhaps it is now time for science to investigate further the benefits of the humble cranberry.