A cherry is the fruit of many plants of the genus Prunus and is a fleshy drupe (stone fruit).

Commercial cherries are obtained from cultivars of several species, such as the sweet Prunus avium and the sour Prunus cerasus. The name 'cherry' also refers to the cherry tree and its wood, and is sometimes applied to almonds and visually similar flowering trees in the genus Prunus, as in "ornamental cherry" or "cherry blossom". Wild cherry may refer to any of the cherry species growing outside cultivation, although Prunus avium is often referred to specifically by the name "wild cherry" in the British Isles.

History and Origin
Cherries originated in the region between the Black and Caspian seas, in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). They were spread to Europe by ancient Greeks and Romans, with Roman general Lucullus famously bringing them to Rome in 74 BCE. English colonists introduced them to North America in 1629, and they later spread across the western U.S.

Spread to Britain: 
The first recorded introduction of cherries to England was by order of Henry VIII, who had tasted them in Flanders. They became more widespread in Britain by the 15th century. 

Arrival in the Americas: 
European settlers brought cherry seeds and trees with them to the Americas in the 1600s, planting them in their new colonies. French settlers planted them in their gardens in places like Nova Scotia, and they eventually spread to other areas like Michigan and California.

Nutrient Database – USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

Reference Values for Nutrition – FDA U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Rich in Antioxidants - Cherries are rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins and polyphenols, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. This antioxidant content provides numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, faster muscle recovery after exercise, better sleep quality, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases like cancer.

Cherries protect the brain - by reducing oxidative damage and inflammation through their high antioxidant content, particularly anthocyanins. These compounds may improve cognitive function, memory, and protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's by scavenging free radicals and reducing inflammation in brain cells.

Improved Sleep - Cherries, particularly tart cherries, can improve sleep due to their high content of melatonin and tryptophan, which are compounds that regulate sleep-wake cycles. Consuming tart cherries may lead to increased sleep duration, better sleep quality, and improved sleep efficiency. You can eat them fresh, drink tart cherry juice, or use tart cherry concentrate to get these benefits. 

Enhanced Exercise Recovery - Tart cherries can enhance exercise recovery due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce muscle soreness and pain. They contain anthocyanins and melatonin, which contribute to these benefits, as well as improved sleep quality. Studies suggest that consuming tart cherry juice, or other forms like powdered extract, before and after intense exercise may help with recovery, particularly in strength and endurance activities. 

Gout and Inflammation Relief - Cherries can help with gout and inflammation relief due to compounds like anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies suggest that consuming cherries or tart cherry juice can lower uric acid levels and reduce the risk of gout attacks. While promising, cherries are not a replacement for standard medical gout treatments, and more research is needed to determine the most effective dosage and long-term use.  

Heart Health - Cherries benefit heart health by providing antioxidants, potassium, and fiber, which help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and by reducing inflammation. Their high levels of anthocyanins and other polyphenols protect the cardiovascular system, while potassium helps regulate blood pressure and muscle contractions, including the heart. Consuming cherries, especially tart varieties, can help manage risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol.  

Blood Sugar Management - Cherries can be beneficial for blood sugar management due to their low glycaemic index (GI) and rich content of antioxidants like anthocyanins. They help manage blood sugar by slowing carbohydrate absorption and may also improve insulin regulation, but consumption should be in moderation, focusing on fresh or unsweetened versions to avoid added sugars.  

Rich in Nutrients - Cherries are nutrient-dense, rich in vitamins like C, A, and K, and minerals such as potassium, copper, and magnesium. They are also packed with beneficial compounds including fiber, antioxidants like anthocyanins and quercetin, and melatonin. These nutrients support overall health by providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, promoting gut health, and contributing to heart and sleep health.

Cherry – From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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