Acidic cherry has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Sour cherries can reduce chronic inflammation, especially in those who suffer from debilitating pain in joints and arthritis. According to scientists from the Oregon University of Health and Science (USA), acid cherries contain more anti-inflammatory substances than any other product.
Twenty women aged 40 to 70 years with inflammatory osteoarthritis who were given juice from an acid cherry twice a day for three weeks were involved in the study. At the end of the experiment, it was found that this therapy led to a significant reduction in the number of important inflammatory markers. The most beneficial effect was seen in women who at the beginning of the study recorded the maximum level of inflammation.
The composition of the cherry includes antioxidant components of anthocyanins, which provide the berries with a bright red color. It has been proven that anthocyanins possess a high antioxidant capacity and reduce inflammation almost as effectively as some well-known painkillers.
Previous work carried out by experts from Baylor Research Institute (USA) showed that a daily dose of acidic cherry (in the form of a cherry extract) helps to reduce osteoarthritic pain by more than 20% in most men and women. In addition, the same substances relieve athletes from muscle and joint pain.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Athletes are often at greater risk of developing this ailment, as excessive stress on the joints causes destruction of the cartilage, which leads to pain and damage.
The results of the study were presented at the conference of the American College of Sports Medicine.