Drinking black cherry juice may cause your mouth to pucker, but it can also deliver a wealth of nutrients and potential health benefits.
What is Black Cherry Juice?
Black cherry juice is derived from the black cherry (Prunus serotina), which is a member of the rose family and is native to North and South America. It has since been introduced around the world as an ornamental tree. When mature and in bloom, a black cherry tree produces beautiful, small white flowers. The black cherry tree produces small, dark red or purple fruit with large stones in the center. The juice of the black cherry has long been used in traditional medicines for diseases of inflammation, such as gout. However, modern research has found several other medical benefits of this popular summer fruit. [1]
Benefits of Black Cherry Juice
The top benefits of black cherry juice include its ability to relieve symptoms of arthritis, treat gout, lower inflammation, boost heart health, improve sleep, and prevent signs of aging.
Black cherry juice has a high antioxidant content. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Prevents Gout
Black cherry juice is most frequently recommended for the treatment of gout, which is a form of arthritis where uric acid crystals build up around sensitive joints, causing inflammation and pain. Drinking it every day has been shown to reduce that uric acid build-up, which can prevent outbreaks of gout.
Anti-Inflammatory Nature
In addition to gout, black cherry is effective in reducing inflammation from other forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Black cherries are rich in anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant that helps block certain enzymes that cause inflammation. [2]
Rich in Antioxidants
Anthocyanins have also been found to prevent high blood pressure, reduce cardiovascular disease and prevent obesity.
Promotes Good Sleep
This tart juice contains serotonin, which not only helps you fall asleep but also increases overall sleep quality.
Heart Health
The melatonin in black cherries lowers blood lipid levels, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Great for Working Out
Black cherry juice can help repair muscle damage after strenuous exercise and boosts metabolism, making your workouts have more of an impact! [3]
Anti-Aging
The antioxidants in this juice also help prevent age-related eye damage and keep your skin looking healthy and clear, reducing fine lines and wrinkles. [4]
Hair Care
Finally, the high iron content of black cherry juice can prevent hair loss and strengthen hair follicles, keeping you looking younger for longer!
Side Effects
Drinking excess black cherry juice may cause side effects that include indigestion and other gastrointestinal issues.
- Digestion: Consuming excessive black cherry juice can lead to diarrhea, indigestion, and gastrointestinal issues. Black cherries contain sorbitol, which may exacerbate conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.
- Diabetes: The juice contains natural sugars. Also, most fruit juices sold contain added sugars. People with diabetes should exercise caution while drinking this juice. It is best to consume the unsweetened version.
- Interactions with other medications: Patients who take sedatives or who are on medication for high cholesterol, allergies, fungal infections, or cancer should check with their doctor before using black cherry juice as a supplement.
