Cherries are delicious, can be locally grown and offer an abundance of health benefits. In addition to containing beneficial antioxidants, cherries have anti-inflammatory properties and are used to help avoid or treat a variety of illnesses. Although eating fresh cherries is best, cherry juice can also give you the same benefits.
Healthful Makeup
Tart cherries seem to be the most healthful. They contain anthocyanins, flavanols, phenolic acids, phytochemicals, terpenes and plant hormones. These components help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, boost the immune system, improve heart and brain health and inhibit tumor growth.
Medical Proof
The NCBI indicates a recent study found that consumption of cherry juice decreased strength loss and symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage in adults (see Resources below).
Cherry Products
Cherries can be found fresh from the tree at farm stands or in grocery stores. They are also made into juices, baked goods, candies and canned pie filling.
Grow Your Own
Cherry trees are hardy from USDA Zones 4 or 5 to 9 and prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Fruits will not appear for 2 to 3 years, but a mature cherry tree can yield up to 50 pounds of fruit annually.
Tip
When choosing a cherry juice, try to find a brand with no preservatives or other fruit juices blended in. Search the refrigerated section of grocery stores rather than the canned juice aisle.
Considerations
Fresh cherries or cherry juice can be difficult to find in stores. To avoid a wasted trip, check with your local store ahead of time. In the United States, cherries are harvested in July.
