Cranberry-enriched formulations for deodorizing and improving both urinary tract and vaginal health

Abstract

A cranberry-enriched formula with enhanced deodorizing activity and for the prevention of urinary tract infections and vaginal disorders, including: at least one fruit extract in an amount of approximately 5% to 15% by weight of the composition; at least one herbal extract in an amount of approximately 1% to 5% by weight of the composition; at least one monosaccharide in an amount of approximately 1 wt.% to 10 wt.% of the composition; at least one probiotic in an amount of approximately 1% to 5% by weight of the composition and at least one biologically active ingredient in an amount of approximately 1% by weight to 10% by weight of the composition, wherein the deodorizing activity is achieved by the binding of the hydroxy group to the odor-forming compounds.

Description

Field of application of the invention:

[0001] The present invention relates to a cranberry-enriched composition with deodorizing activity and improvement of urinary tract and vaginal health, intended for inclusion in the daily supplement of health care. Background of the invention:

[0002] Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a widespread health problem, especially among women, and are most commonly caused by gram-negative bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli (E. coli). These infections occur when bacteria adhere to and colonize the epithelial cells of the urinary tract. This adhesion is facilitated by proteinaceous fibers, or fimbriae, on the bacterial surface that attach to specific oligosaccharide receptors on the uroepithelial cells. Once attached, E. coli can multiply, leading to symptoms such as painful urination, increased frequency, and, particularly, a foul odor in the urine.

[0003] Standard treatment for UTIs often includes antibiotics, which are initially effective but have significant drawbacks. Antibiotic use can lead to the development of drug-resistant strains of bacteria, making subsequent infections difficult to treat. Additionally, antibiotics may not prevent recurrence, leaving individuals vulnerable to future infections. Current pharmaceutical and herbal remedies do not consistently relieve the full range of acute and chronic UTI symptoms, nor do they provide adequate preventive measures against recurrent infections.

[0004] Given this limitation, there is a clear need for new therapeutic options that effectively target UTIs and relieve associated symptoms without promoting bacterial resistance or causing adverse effects in other areas of the body. Specifically, there is growing interest in the development of herbal or natural formulations that offer a safer and more sustainable alternative to conventional antibiotics with the potential to more comprehensively prevent and treat UTIs. Summary of the invention:

[0005] Accordingly, the present invention provides a cranberry-enriched composition with improved deodorizing activity and for the prevention of urinary tract infections and vaginal disorders. The cranberry-enriched composition comprises at least one fruit extract in an amount of about 5% to 15% by weight of the composition, at least one herbal extract in an amount of about 1% to 5% by weight of the composition, at least one monosaccharide in an amount of about 1% to 10% by weight of the composition, at least one probiotic in an amount of about 1% to 5% by weight of the composition, and at least one biologically active ingredient in an amount of about 1% to 10% by weight of the composition. Furthermore, the deodorizing activity is achieved by the bonding of the hydroxy group to the odor-producing compounds.

[0006] In one embodiment of the present invention, the fruit extract is selected from blueberry, cranberry, bilberry, raspberry, blackberry, elderberry, bearberry, goji berry, red currant, pomegranate, persimmon or a combination thereof.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, the herbal extract is selected from roselle extract, horsetail extract, ginger extract, dandelion extract, nasturtium extract, green tea extract, goldenseal extract or a combination thereof.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the monosaccharide is selected from L-arabinose, L-fucose, D-mannose, L-rhamnose, L-xylose, lyxose, galactose or a combination thereof.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the probiotic is selected from Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum LP115, Lactobacillus helveticus LA25, Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. lactis LDL114, Lactobacillus fermentum LF26, Lactobacillus rhamnosus LRH10, Lactobacillus paracasei LPC12 or a combination thereof.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, the biologically active ingredients are selected from ascorbic acid, niacin, tocopherols, tocotrienols, zinc gluconate, zinc citrate, zinc picolinate, zinc acetate, hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate or a combination thereof.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the odor-forming compounds include ammonia, trimethylamine, hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, formaldehyde, or a combination thereof.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the urinary tract infections and the vaginal disorder may further include urethritis, cystitis, urethrocystitis, ureteritis, pyelonephritis, pyelitis, interstitial cystitis, or pyelocystitis.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the urinary tract infections and the vaginal disorder may be caused by pathogens selected from Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Enterococcus spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Chlamydia trachomatis, or a combination thereof.

[0014] In another aspect of the present invention, the cranberry-enriched composition is used to deodorize odor-causing compounds and to prevent and relieve urinary tract infections. Short description of the drawings:

[0015] Embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings, in which: Fig. 1 depicts the deodorization rate test after treatment with the cranberry-enriched composition according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 2 depicts the assay for inhibition of bacterial adhesion by different concentrations of D-mannose according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3 depicts the assay for inhibition of UTI pathogen growth by probiotics according to one embodiment of the present invention. Definitions:

[0016] References in the specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an exemplary embodiment," etc., indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such language may not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, where a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with one embodiment, it is understood that one skilled in the art would know that it can affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not expressly described.

[0017] The terms "a" or "an" are used to include one or more than one, and the term "or" is used to refer to a non-exclusive "or" unless otherwise specified. In addition, phraseology or terminology used herein and not otherwise defined is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. In addition, all publications, patents, and patent documents referenced in this document are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, as if individually incorporated by reference. In the event of any inconsistent usage between this document and such documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in the incorporated reference should be considered supplemental to that in this document; in the event of any irreconcilable inconsistency, the usage in this document shall control. Detailed description:

[0018] In the following description, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications involving additions and / or substitutions may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Specific details may be omitted so as not to obscure the invention; however, the disclosure is written to enable one skilled in the art to practice the teachings contained herein without undue experimentation.

[0019] Provided herein is a cranberry-enriched composition. The cranberry-enriched composition comprises at least one fruit extract, at least one herbal extract, at least one monosaccharide, at least one probiotic, and at least one biologically active ingredient. The composition enhances deodorant activity and provides improved prevention of urinary tract infections and vaginal disorders, which may include, but are not limited to, urethritis, cystitis, urethrocystitis, ureteritis, pyelonephritis, pyelitis, interstitial cystitis, or pyelocystitis.

[0020] The at least one fruit extract has an amount of about 5% to 15% by weight of the composition (e.g., 5.5%; 6.5%; 7.5%; 8.5%; 9.5%; 10.5%; 11.5%; 12.5%; 13.5%; 14.5%, etc.). Meanwhile, the fruit extract includes, for example, but is not limited to, blueberries, cranberries, bilberries, raspberries, blackberries, elderberries, bearberries, goji berries, red currants, pomegranates, persimmons, or a mixture thereof. A preferred embodiment of the fruit extract is cranberry, which is known for its rich and diverse phytochemical profile. Cranberry contains significant levels of proanthocyanidins (PACs), the primary active compounds believed to possess anti-adhesive properties that inhibit the adhesion of fimbriae of bacteria, including both antibiotic-sensitive and antibiotic-resistant strains.Additionally, cranberry appears to prevent the formation of bacterial biofilm, further enhancing its protective effect. The proanthocyanidin concentration of the cranberry-enriched composition in the present invention is about 1% to 15% by weight of the composition (e.g., 3%, 5%, 7%, 9%, 11%, 13%, etc.). In another embodiment, the proanthocyanidin concentration of the cranberry-enriched composition in the present invention is about 20 mg / g to 100 mg / g (e.g., 30 mg / g, 40 mg / g, 50 mg / g, 60 mg / g, 70 mg / g, 80 mg / g, 90 mg / g, etc.).

[0021] In another preferred embodiment, the fruit extract is derived from persimmon, which is rich in phenolic compounds, carotenoids, vitamins, and fiber. Among these, condensed tannins stand out as the characteristic phytochemicals of persimmon due to their abundance. This class of compounds consists of heterogeneously polymerized flavan-3-ol units, including catechin, catechin-3-O-gallate, gallocatechin, and gallocatechin-3-O-gallate residues with a high degree of polymerization. Condensed tannins are capable of neutralizing or eliminating odor-causing compounds produced by pathogens associated with UTIs and bacterial vaginosis (BV). The pathogens may include, but are not limited to, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Enterococcus spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Chlamydia trachomatis, or a combination thereof, and the odor-causing compounds produced by said pathogens may include, but are not limited to, ammonia, trimethylamine, hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, formaldehyde, or a mixture thereof.The deodorization mechanism includes several actions, such as (1) Binding to odor molecules: Condensed tannins, as large polyphenolic compounds with multiple hydroxyl groups, can form strong hydrogen bonds or electrostatic interactions with proteins and sulfur-containing compounds that are often responsible for malodors; (2) Complex formation: By binding to odor molecules, condensed tannins form stable, less volatile complexes, reducing the likelihood of malodorous emissions; (3) Reduction of odor-causing bacteria: Condensed tannins also exhibit antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for the production of odor-causing metabolites. (4) Antioxidant activity: With strong antioxidant properties, tannins can neutralize reactive sulfur compounds that contribute to unpleasant odors.They capture free radicals and reactive molecules, preventing them from breaking down into foul-smelling substances.

[0022] The at least one herbal extract is present in an amount of about 1% to 5% by weight of the composition (e.g., 1.3%; 1.6%; 1.9%; 2.2%; 2.5%; 2.8%; 3.1%; 3.4%; 3.7%; 4%; 4.3%; 4.6%; 4.9%, etc.). Additionally, the herbal extract includes, for example, but is not limited to, roselle extract, horsetail extract, ginger extract, dandelion extract, nasturtium extract, green tea extract, goldenseal extract, or a mixture thereof. A preferred embodiment of the fruit extract is Roselle extract (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.), which helps prevent UTIs and improve vaginal health through several mechanisms: (1) antimicrobial activity: compounds such as flavonoids, anthocyanins, and polyphenols disrupt the cell walls of pathogens and impair their enzymes, thereby reducing bacterial viability;(2) Diuretic action: Roselle extract acts as a mild diuretic, increasing urine flow and helping to flush bacteria from the urinary tract, minimizing the opportunity for pathogens to establish an infection; (3) pH modulation: The acidic nature of roselle extract helps lower the pH of urine, creating an environment less conducive to bacteria that thrive in alkaline conditions; (4) Hydration and mucosal support: The polysaccharides and mucus in roselle may help moisten the vaginal mucosa, which may be beneficial in reducing dryness and discomfort.

[0023] The at least one monosaccharide is present in an amount of about 1% to 10% by weight of the composition (e.g., 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, etc.). Furthermore, the monosaccharide includes, for example, but is not limited to, L-arabinose, L-fucose, D-mannose, L-rhamnose, L-xylose, lyxose, galactose, or a mixture thereof. A preferred embodiment of the monosaccharide is D-mannose, a simple sugar and stereoisomer of glucose. It is naturally metabolized by the human body and, in small amounts, contributes to urinary tract health. The cell walls of E. coli are covered with tiny, finger-like projections composed of an amino acid-sugar complex known as glycoproteins or "lectins." D-mannose binds more effectively to these E. coli lectins than to human cells. If sufficient amounts are ingested, D-mannose is excreted in the urine, where it inhibits E.coli and prevents them from adhering to the walls of the bladder and urinary tract. Consequently, the E. coli are flushed out during normal urination.

[0024] The at least one probiotic is present in an amount of about 1% to 5% by weight of the composition (e.g., 1.3%; 1.6%; 1.9%; 2.2%; 2.5%; 2.8%; 3.1%; 3.4%; 3.7%; 4%; 4.3%; 4.6%; 4.9%, etc.). Additionally, the probiotics include, for example, but are not limited to, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum LP115, Lactobacillus helveticus LA25, Lactobacillus delbrueckii spp.lactis LDL114, Lactobacillus fermentum LF26, Lactobacillus rhamnosus LRH10, Lactobacillus paracasei LPC12, or a combination thereof, where the probiotics can help prevent UTIs and improve vaginal health through several mechanisms: (1) Production of antimicrobial substances: Probiotics can produce various antimicrobial compounds, which may include bacteriocins, hydrogen peroxide, and organic acids; (2) Enhancement of the immune response: Probiotics can modulate the immune system by increasing antibody production and activating immune cells; (3) Restoration of microbiota balance: Probiotics help restore and maintain a healthy balance of the microbiota in the urinary tract.

[0025] The at least one biologically active ingredient is present in an amount of about 1% to 10% by weight of the composition (e.g., 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, etc.). Furthermore, the biologically active ingredients include, but are not limited to, ascorbic acid, niacin, tocopherols, tocotrienols, zinc gluconate, zinc citrate, zinc picolinate, zinc acetate, hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, or a combination thereof. These ingredients may improve urinary tract health through various mechanisms, primarily by supporting the integrity and function of the urinary tract mucosa.These mechanisms include: (1) Improvement of mucosal barrier function: in the urinary tract, these ingredients help strengthen the mucosal barrier, which serves as a protective layer on the bladder wall; (2) Anti-inflammatory properties: they can modulate inflammatory responses by interacting with cell surface receptors, thereby reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other inflammatory mediators; (3) Promotion of tissue repair and healing: in cases of damage to the urinary tract mucosa, these ingredients support tissue repair and regeneration by promoting cell proliferation and migration, which are essential for the healing of damaged tissues; (4) Maintenance of hydration and lubrication: Ensuring adequate hydration of the mucosal layer can reduce irritation and improve overall comfort, especially in chronic urinary tract diseases.

[0026] The cranberry-enriched composition of the present invention may be in any form, including, but not limited to, solids, semi-solids, ready-to-drink liquids, concentrated liquids, gels, and powders. In some embodiments, the composition may be in the form of spray-dried powders, dry-blended powders, agglomerated powders, powders prepared by any suitable method, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the composition may be in a formulation suitable for oral consumption, which formulation includes, but is not limited to, tablets, hard gelatin capsules, starch capsules, cellulose-based capsules, soft gel capsules, and elixirs. Example 1: Measurement of PACs

[0027] The cranberry-enriched composition was analyzed for its PAC content using the Bate-Smith method, which provides a reliable measure of condensed tannins. A sample is first subjected to acid hydrolysis using ferric chloride as a catalyst. The acidic environment breaks down the PACs into anthocyanidins, which then react with the ferric ions. This reaction produces a characteristic pink to red color, the intensity of which correlates with the PAC concentration. The analytical results show that the cranberry-enriched composition contains 2.6% PACs by weight. Example 2 Deodorant Test

[0028] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the cranberry-enriched composition of the present invention exhibits excellent deodorizing activity. After a defined test period, the concentrations of malodorous compounds—ammonia, trimethylamine, and formaldehyde—were reduced by over 95%, as demonstrated using gas chromatography. Example 3 Inhibition of bacterial adhesion by D-mannose

[0029] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the E. coli cells were cultured at a concentration of 10 6 CFU / ml were incubated with a tenfold dilution series of D-mannose and exposed to the bladder cell line 5637 to evaluate adhesion. Increasing the concentrations of D-mannose resulted in a significant reduction or even complete inhibition of bacterial binding to bladder cells, indicating its potential for the treatment of UTIs. Example 4 Inhibition of the growth of UTI pathogens by probiotics

[0030] The probiotic combinations selected for the cranberry-enriched composition in the present invention have superior ability to inhibit the growth of UTI-causing pathogens, as described in Fig. 3. These probiotic combinations include Lactobacillus plantarum LP115, Lactobacillus helveticus LA25, Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. lactis LDL114, Lactobacillus fermentum LF26, Lactobacillus rhamnosus LRH10, and Lactobacillus paracasei LPC12.

[0031] The foregoing description of the present invention has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0032] The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

[1] Cranberry-enriched composition with enhanced deodorizing activity and for the prevention of urinary tract infections and vaginal disturbance, comprising: at least one fruit extract in an amount of about 5% to 15% by weight of the composition; at least one herbal extract in an amount of about 1% to 5% by weight of the composition; at least one monosaccharide in an amount of about 1% to 10% by weight of the composition; at least one probiotic in an amount of about 1% to 5% by weight of the composition and at least one biologically active ingredient in an amount of about 1% to 10% by weight of the composition, wherein the deodorizing activity is achieved by the bonding of the hydroxy group to the odor-causing compounds. [2] Cranberry-enriched composition according to claim 1, wherein the fruit extract is selected from blueberry, cranberry, bilberry, raspberry, blackberry, elderberry, bearberry, goji berry, red currant, pomegranate, persimmon or a combination thereof. [3] The cranberry-enriched composition of claim 1, wherein the herbal extract is selected from roselle extract, horsetail extract, ginger extract, dandelion extract, nasturtium extract, green tea extract, goldenseal extract, or a combination thereof. [4] The cranberry-enriched composition of claim 1, wherein the monosaccharide is selected from L-arabinose, L-fucose, D-mannose, L-rhamnose, L-xylose, lyxose, galactose, or a combination thereof. [5] The cranberry-enriched composition of claim 1, wherein the probiotic is selected from Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum LP115, Lactobacillus helveticus LA25, Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. lactis LDL114, Lactobacillus fermentum LF26, Lactobacillus rhamnosus LRH10, Lactobacillus paracasei LPC12, or a combination thereof. [6] Cranberry-enriched composition according to claim 1, wherein the biologically active ingredients are selected from ascorbic acid, niacin, tocopherols, tocotrienols, zinc gluconate, zinc citrate, zinc picolinate, zinc acetate, hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate or a combination thereof. [7] The cranberry-enriched composition according to claim 1, wherein the urinary tract infections and vaginal disorder may further include urethritis, cystitis, urethrocystitis, ureteritis, pyelonephritis, pyelitis, interstitial cystitis, or pyelocystitis. [8] The cranberry-enriched composition of claim 7, wherein the urinary tract infections and the vaginal disorder may be caused by pathogens selected from Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Enterococcus spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Chlamydia trachomatis, or a combination thereof. [9] Use according to claim 1 for deodorizing the odor-forming compounds and for preventing and alleviating urinary tract infections.

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