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Sour cherries have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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Tart cherries may reduce chronic inflammation, especially in those suffering from debilitating joint pain and arthritis. According to scientists from Oregon Health & Science University (USA), tart cherries contain more anti-inflammatory substances than any other food.
The study involved twenty women aged 40 to 70 with inflammatory osteoarthritis who were given tart cherry juice twice daily for three weeks. At the end of the experiment, it was found that the therapy led to a significant reduction in important inflammatory markers. The most beneficial effect was seen in women who had the highest levels of inflammation at the start of the study.
Cherries contain antioxidant compounds called anthocyanins, which give the berries their vibrant red color. Anthocyanins have been shown to have high antioxidant capacity and reduce inflammation almost as effectively as some well-known painkillers.
Previous studies conducted by specialists at the Baylor Research Institute (USA) have shown that a daily dose of tart cherries (in the form of cherry extract) helps reduce osteoarthritis 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 condition because the extra stress on the joints causes cartilage to break down, leading to pain and damage.
The results of the study were presented at a conference of the American College of Sports Medicine.
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