Research shows that tart cherries are a rich source of antioxidants, including melatonin, which may help to relieve the pain of arthritis, gout and possibly fibromyalgia . Melatonin, a powerful antioxidant that is considered more potent that vitamins C, E, and A because it is soluble both in fat and water. Consumption of cherries and its products has been reported to be health-promoting, particularly to alleviate arthritic pain and gout.[1] Ingesting tart cherry juice for 7 days prior to and during a strenuous running event can minimize post-run muscle pain.[2] Tart cherry juice decreases some of the symptoms of exercise induced muscle damage.[3]

Dr. Oz's Tart Cherry Video

1. Wood, M. 2006 Jan.
2. Kuehl KS. et al., 2010 May. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 7;7:17.
3. Connolly, D. et al. 2006 May. Br J Sports Med. 40:679-683.