Ellura is a dietary supplement designed to promote urinary tract health and reduce the occurrence of urinary tract infections (UTIs). The product is made from pure cranberry extract, specifically standardized to contain high levels of proanthocyanidins (PACs), which are known for their ability to prevent harmful bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. Unlike many cranberry supplements on the market, Ellura focuses on providing a high concentration of active PACs, which are key in helping to reduce the frequency of UTIs.
In this review, I’ll discuss how Ellura works, its key ingredients, potential benefits, side effects, and whether it’s a good option for urinary tract health.
What is Ellura?
Ellura is a cranberry extract supplement developed to support urinary tract health. It is marketed as a preventative option for individuals prone to recurrent urinary tract infections. The supplement is made using a proprietary process to extract proanthocyanidins (PACs) from cranberries, which are the active compounds thought to inhibit bacteria like E. coli from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract.
Ellura is primarily targeted toward people who frequently experience UTIs and want a natural, non-antibiotic option to help reduce the likelihood of infections.
How Does Ellura Work?
Ellura works by using proanthocyanidins (PACs), which are compounds found in cranberries known for their ability to prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder and urinary tract walls. This anti-adhesion property helps to flush out harmful bacteria like E. coli, the primary cause of most urinary tract infections, before they have a chance to multiply and cause infection.
- Prevents Bacterial Adhesion: The high concentration of PACs in Ellura helps prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining, reducing the risk of developing an infection.
- Natural and Non-Antibiotic Approach: By using cranberry extract, Ellura provides a natural, non-prescription alternative to antibiotics, which are commonly used to treat UTIs but may contribute to antibiotic resistance when overused.
Key Ingredients in Ellura
- Cranberry Extract (36 mg PACs): The primary active ingredient in Ellura is a concentrated cranberry extract standardized to deliver 36 mg of PACs per dose, which is believed to be the effective amount needed to prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls.
- Gelatin and Magnesium Stearate: These are inactive ingredients used in the capsule formulation. They help ensure the supplement is easy to swallow and digest.
Unlike many other cranberry supplements, Ellura emphasizes its high concentration of type-A proanthocyanidins (PACs), which are considered the most effective form of PACs for urinary health.
Potential Benefits of Ellura
- Reduces Risk of UTIs: By preventing bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall, Ellura helps reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs, especially for individuals who frequently experience infections.
- Non-Antibiotic Prevention: For individuals looking to avoid frequent use of antibiotics, Ellura provides a natural alternative that doesn’t contribute to antibiotic resistance.
- High Potency PACs: The 36 mg of type-A PACs in each capsule is standardized to deliver the clinically studied amount required for effective UTI prevention.
- Convenient Daily Supplement: Ellura is easy to take, with just one capsule needed per day to maintain urinary health.
Potential Side Effects of Ellura
Although Ellura is made from natural cranberry extract and is generally considered safe, some users may experience mild side effects:
- Digestive Issues: Some individuals report experiencing mild stomach discomfort or gas after taking cranberry supplements.
- Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some users may have an allergic reaction to cranberry extract, particularly those allergic to similar fruits like blueberries or bilberries.
- Increased Risk of Kidney Stones: Cranberries contain oxalates, which can increase the risk of kidney stones in people predisposed to this condition. If you have a history of kidney stones, consult your healthcare provider before taking Ellura.
As always, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Who Should Consider Using Ellura?
Ellura is a suitable option for individuals who:
- Are prone to frequent urinary tract infections and want a natural way to prevent them.
- Are seeking an alternative to antibiotic treatment for UTI prevention.
- Want a clinically backed cranberry supplement with high-potency PACs to support urinary tract health.
However, if you have a history of kidney stones or other urinary conditions, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before using Ellura.
The Company Behind Ellura
Ellura is produced by Trophikos, LLC, a company that specializes in natural supplements designed to support urinary tract health. Trophikos emphasizes the clinical research behind their products, particularly focusing on the role of proanthocyanidins (PACs) in preventing UTIs. The company prides itself on producing high-quality supplements backed by scientific evidence.
Customer Testimonials
Here are a few reviews from users who have tried Ellura:
- “Great for UTI Prevention”
“After suffering from frequent UTIs, I’ve been using Ellura for over a year, and it has dramatically reduced the number of infections I experience. I haven’t needed antibiotics since I started taking it daily.” – Amazon Review - “Effective but Pricey”
“Ellura works well for me, and I feel more protected from UTIs. However, it’s on the expensive side compared to other cranberry supplements, though I think it’s worth it for the quality.” – Customer Testimonial - “No UTIs, but Some Digestive Issues”
“Ellura has kept my UTIs at bay, but I have noticed some mild stomach discomfort after taking it. Still, it’s much better than dealing with recurrent infections.” – User Feedback
Where to Buy and Pricing
Ellura is available for purchase through the official Ellura website, Amazon, and other online retailers. Pricing for a one-month supply (30 capsules) typically ranges from $35 to $45, making it more expensive than some generic cranberry supplements, but the higher concentration of PACs justifies the cost for many users.
Final Thoughts: Is Ellura Worth It?
From a medical perspective, Ellura provides a clinically-backed, natural solution for individuals prone to recurrent urinary tract infections. Its high concentration of proanthocyanidins (PACs), derived from cranberry extract, makes it a potent option for preventing bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining, reducing the risk of infection.
While the product is more expensive than many other cranberry supplements, its standardized PAC content and focus on urinary tract health make it a superior choice for those serious about preventing UTIs. For individuals seeking an alternative to frequent antibiotic use, Ellura may be a valuable addition to their daily routine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How long does it take for Ellura to work?
Many users report seeing benefits after several weeks of daily use, though the exact timing may vary based on individual needs. - Can I take Ellura with antibiotics?
Ellura can be used in combination with antibiotics for those who are actively treating a UTI. However, consult with your healthcare provider before combining supplements with medications. - Is Ellura safe for long-term use?
Yes, Ellura is designed for long-term use as part of a preventative approach to urinary tract health. Always consult with your doctor for personalized advice.
For individuals looking to reduce the frequency of UTIs naturally, Ellura provides a high-potency cranberry extract that may offer effective relief and prevention.