Of late, more studies support tart cherry extract or juice for elite athletes and the general population because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory polyphenol compounds. The supplement is rich in melatonin, which helps healthy bodies sleep, supports the immune system, promotes healthy moods and more. It’s even a source of protein while providing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The extract is also an excellent source of minerals, such as magnesium, potassium and manganese. Compared to sweet cherries, tart cherries have 20 times more vitamin A, and their antioxidant levels are five times higher. Tart cherry extract capsules have a good amount of fiber and contain vitamins A, B, C and K. In western Europe, people took the fresh fruits and pits to make a cherry syrup to help reduce fevers and liver diseases ( x). Greek physician Claudius Galenus, known as Galen of Pergamon, recommended tart cherries as an astringent for various health concerns ( x).Īrabic traditional medicine, known as Unani, used tart cherry formulations to ease conditions like kidney stones, urinary tract infections and painful urination. Nurses gave Roman soldiers injured on the battlefields tart cherries to relieve the pain. Measuring the powder and adding it to a drink for consumption can get a little messy, so tart cherry capsules are the best way to take the supplement. People then add the powder to smoothies or other liquids to take it as a supplement. After removing the moisture from the pulp, it becomes tart cherry extract powder. Making the extract requires boiling cherries to a pulp and then mashing it. Animal and test tube studies show that, with these components in tart cherries have anti-inflammatory qualities ( x). It has bioactive components that are antioxidants. Hydroxycinnamates are another beneficial nutrient. Anthocyanins, a flavonoid with extreme antioxidant activity, are one of those nutrients ( x). Some people take tart cherry extract as a supplement because it contains nutrients that benefit the body. You’ll find tart cherries in conventional food as food coloring and flavoring, but it’s also a dietary supplement.īut talk with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. Tart cherries are the most popular in Russia and Europe ( x). People usually add sugar to these cherries, so they taste better because they are so tart. You can find them frozen, juiced or dried. Tart cherries grow worldwide, and people use them for cooking or making syrups and similar concentrates.

Tart cherry supplement