In the News: Cherry aid for arthritis
Cherry juice is being tested as a new treatment for osteoarthritis. It follows earlier research suggesting that compounds in cherries — particularly tart ones — may reduce inflammation and pain in a similar way to aspirin.
Previous research at Michigan State University found that compounds called anthocyanins, which give tart cherries — sometimes called sour red cherries — their colour, may have anti-inflammatory properties and contain protective antioxidants.
In a new trial, due to start in May at the Philadelphia Medical Centre in the U.S., men and women with osteoarthritis will be given a tart cherry juice drink for six weeks to see if it has an effect on their use of painkillers, and whether it improves their ability to walk.