The therapeutic and nutritional value of black cherry has long been known and made use of. Read on to find all about the health and nutrition benefits of eating black cherries.

Benefits Of Black Cherry

Jams, pies, liqueurs, sodas, ice creams - all of these have a common ingredient quite often. Black cherries! These mildly astringent, bittersweet fruits are also used in dark chocolate cakes and as garnishes for cocktails! Prunus serotina, the botanical name black cherry is associated with, belongs to the genus Prunus and the subgenus Padus. The fruit of this plant, apart from being a boon to the taste buds, is also a panacea for a whole range of disorders. Medical experts have concluded that consumption of black cherries can ease the severity of numerous health problems, ranging from headaches to cancers. Known to have excellent anti-inflammatory properties, black cherry is used as a ready reckoner for many disorders related to inflammation as well. Through the lines that follow, make yourself aware of the health benefits of black cherry as well as its high nutritional value.
 
Nutritional Value Of Black Cherry
 
Amount of Black Cherry: 1 cup
Total Weight of Black Cherry a: 98 g
 

Nutrients
Amount
Basic Components
 
Protein
0.4 g
Carbohydrates
7.5 g
Water
89.6 g
Calorie
131 KJ
Fiber
1.1 g
Fat
0.3 g
Vitamins
 
Vitamin A
752 IU
Riboflavin
0.1 mg
Niacin
0.4 mg
Folate
13.7 mcg
Pantothenic Acid
0.3 mg
Vitamin C
1644 mcg
Minerals
 
Calcium
11.8 mg
Magnesium
17.6 mg
Iron
0.2 mg
Sodium
6.9 mg
Phosphorus
10.8 mg
Potassium
143 mg
Copper
0.1 mg
Selenium
0.6 mcg
Zinc
0.1 mg

 
Health & Nutrition Benefits Of Eating Black Cherries
 
  • Anthocyanins, potent antioxidants, are present in the red pigment of black cherries. They help combat symptoms of gout, by greatly decreasing the levels of uric acid. Anthocyanins further help in fighting inflammation 10 times more than aspirin. They even prevent the build up of plaque in the walls of the arteries, much more effectively than vitamins C and E.
  • The melatonin present in black cherries helps boost the immune system as well as lower the risk of stroke and heart disease, by lowering blood lipid levels.
  • Apart from the antioxidants, black cherry is rich in isoqueritrin and queritrin, two important flavonoids. They help in neutralizing the body' harmful oxidants, in turn aiding the fight against carcinogens, viruses and allergens.
  • The naturally occurring elements in black cherries have been proven to reduce blood sugar levels in diabetics.
  • Regular consumption of black cherry is known to reduce high blood cholesterol, ease arthritis and gout, prevent age-related deterioration of eyesight, and even prevent premature ageing.
  • Drinking a glass of black cherry juice daily can help reduce the muscle damage caused by excessive exercise.
  • The bark of black cherry is used as an ingredient in cough medicines, since it is a known cough suppressant.
  • Black cherry tea is now being used to improve intestinal function and boost overall energy and metabolism.
  • Drinking an ounce of concentrated black cherry juice, an hour or so before bed, helps calm the mind and improves the quality of sleep.

How to Cite

More from iloveindia.com