How Does It Work?:
The sweet cherry (Prunus avium) tree, native to central Europe, has been cultivated since Greek and Roman times. The fruit, which can now be found throughout much of Europe and the coastal United States, has long been associated with a variety of health benefits. While the exact mechanism by which cherry fruit and its key components promotes health remains undetermined, new research continues to support the many benefits of cherry consumption.

Antioxidant Support

Cherries are a rich source of flavonoids, natural compounds that are most widely recognized for their potent antioxidant activity. In fact, anthocyanins flavonoids isolated from cherries have been shown to possess antioxidant capabilities superior to vitamin E. This powerful free radical scavenging capacity has broad ranging health implications for the immune, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, cherries have also been shown to support the body's natural anti-inflammatory response.

Joint Support

By disarming free radicals, which can damage healthy cells, flavonoids contribute to the integrity of capillaries, collagen structures, eyes, joints, and arteries.^† Research has shown that anthyocyanins and cyanidin flavonoids present in cherry fruit can positively impact joint health.

Additionally, a recent study found that consumption of sweet cherries promotes optimal pH balance by maintaining healthy uric acid levels, revealing yet another way in which cherries contribute to joint health.

Cardiovascular Support

One of the most exciting new findings regarding cherry fruit consumption is its potential support in the area of cardiovascular health. Researchers recently found that anthocyanins naturally present in sweet cherries support healthy insulin production in pancreatic cells. Cherry consumption may, therefore, help maintain healthy insulin and blood sugar levels that are already within the normal range.

Sleep Support

Melatonin, a natural hormone that is secreted by the pineal gland, supports healthy sleep patterns.^† Studies have shown that melatonin plays an important role in regulating the circadian clock.^† Through its ability to modulate the body's light-dark cycle, melatonin supplementation promotes restful sleep, relaxation, and stress reduction.

A recent study, the first to reveal that melatonin can be naturally present in food sources, found that both sweet and tart cherries contain high levels of melatonin. While additional trials are needed to validate cherry fruit as an effective sleep enhancer, this study implies yet another potential health benefit of cherry consumption.

Conclusion

While much of cherry fruit's reputation is based on anecdotal evidence or “old wives tales”, scientific research is continually validating its numerous health benefits. Enzymatic Therapy's Cherry Fruit Extract provides a high quality and concentrated extract of Prunus avium, a natural source of potent antioxidants.