Cranberry juice: Can it control cystitis?

Q. Do you have any information about remedies for urinary-tract infections (UTI) other than antibiotics? What about cranberry juice?

A. Cranberry juice is a time-honored folk remedy for preventing or treating UTI. The science, however, is quite confusing.

An analysis of 10 different controlled trials concluded that there is some evidence cranberry juice or pills prevent recurrent UTIs (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue One, 2008).

The most recent study did not find a difference between cranberry juice and a look-alike, cranberry-flavored placebo beverage (Clinical Infectious Diseases, Jan. 1, 2011). The authors were surprised, however, that women in both arms of the trial had only half as many infections as anticipated. They speculate that the placebo might accidentally have contained the infection-fighting ingredient in cranberries.

Readers of this column report that cranberry pills have been helpful.

Q. I love reading about all the unusual remedies people try for their health problems. Have you put their experiences in a book? I would love to get a copy.

A. We have collected a large number of these stories in our book “Favorite Home Remedies From The People’s Pharmacy.” They include everything from topical milk of magnesia for underarm odor to yams for hot flashes. Anyone who would like a copy can find it at www.peoplespharmacy.com or by sending $8.95 (plus $4 S&H) to: Graedons’ People’s Pharmacy (Dept. FHR), P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.

Q. For some time, I have had increasingly bad pain in my right knee, left hip and lower back. I was getting so depressed because I was barely functioning. A friend recommended turmeric, and I decided to try it. I had been living on way too much ibuprofen every day. Since the first turmeric tablet, I have not needed another ibuprofen.

The results with turmeric are much better than with ibuprofen. My energy level also is better.

I definitely recommend turmeric as an anti-inflammatory to anyone who can take it.

A. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, has well-established anti-inflammatory activity. We could find no studies on the combination of fish oil and turmeric for arthritis pain in humans. Preliminary rodent research suggests that this combination might be helpful in fighting inflammation (Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, Nov. 10, 1994).

Q. When I began my first real job in an office 20 years ago, I developed severe eczema from handling a large pair of scissors and wearing a new watch. Since the rash was only on my right hand and left wrist, an allergist tested me, and nickel was positive. I solved the problem by covering the handles of the scissors and the underside of the watch with clear nail polish.

A. Others also have reported that clear nail polish painted on earring backings or other jewelry can protect against nickel skin reactions. Thanks for the tip.

In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of The Vindicator or e-mail them via their website: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com. Their newest book is “Recipes & Remedies From The People’s Pharmacy.”

2011 King Features Syndicate Inc.