# Prunus cerasus (Sour Cherry)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/prunus-cerasus
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-23
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Fruit
**Also Known As:** Prunus cerasus, Tart cherry, Dwarf cherry, Pie cherry, Montmorency cherry, Sour cherry extract, European cherry, Griotte

## Overview

Prunus cerasus, or Sour Cherry, is rich in anthocyanins and other polyphenols, which exert [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects. These compounds contribute to its potential benefits, including kidney health support and reduction of kidney stone formation.

## Health Benefits

["\u2022 May support kidney health by reducing kidney stone formation, as a randomized trial in 68 children found a 1.25 mL/kg daily dose of concentrate was noninferior to standard therapy, causing a 38.14% reduction in stone number (PMID: 39128111). Evidence quality: One randomized controlled trial.", "\u2022 May aid in exercise recovery, an application supported by scientific reviews, though specific clinical trials were not detailed in the provided research (PMID: 41303315). Evidence quality: Review-level.", "\u2022 Provides potent antioxidant effects by scavenging [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (ROS) and modulating antioxidant response element (ARE) pathways. Evidence quality: Preclinical models.", "\u2022 May offer skin protection, as extracts from sour cherry pits have been shown to protect skin fibroblast cells from UV-induced damage. Evidence quality: Preclinical (in-vitro).", "\u2022 Potentially modulates immune responses, with seed extracts observed to inhibit [T-cell](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity and increase heme oxygenase-1 expression. Evidence quality: Preclinical (in-vitro)."]

## Mechanism of Action

Sour cherry's therapeutic effects stem from its high concentration of anthocyanins (e.g., cyanidin-3-glucoside), other polyphenols, and melatonin. These compounds exhibit potent antioxidant activity by scavenging [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and upregulating antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase. Furthermore, they mitigate inflammation by inhibiting pro-[inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s, including cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which reduces prostaglandin synthesis.

## Clinical Summary

A randomized controlled trial involving 68 children investigated the efficacy of sour cherry concentrate for kidney stone prevention. Participants receiving a 1.25 mL/kg daily dose of the concentrate showed a significant 38.14% reduction in kidney stone number, demonstrating noninferiority to standard therapy. While promising, this evidence largely relies on a single study, suggesting further research is needed to solidify its role in kidney health. Preliminary human and animal studies also suggest benefits for muscle recovery and sleep due to [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and melatonin content.

## Nutritional Profile

Per 100 g fresh sour cherries (Prunus cerasus): Energy ~50 kcal; Water ~86 g; Carbohydrates ~12.2 g (including ~8.5 g sugars, primarily glucose and fructose); Dietary fiber ~1.6 g; Protein ~1.0 g; Fat ~0.3 g. Vitamins: Vitamin C ~10 mg (11% DV), Vitamin A ~64 µg RAE (primarily as beta-carotene ~770 µg), Vitamin K ~2.1 µg, Thiamin (B1) ~0.03 mg, Riboflavin (B2) ~0.04 mg, Niacin (B3) ~0.4 mg, Pantothenic acid (B5) ~0.14 mg, Vitamin B6 ~0.044 mg, Folate ~8 µg. Minerals: Potassium ~173 mg, Copper ~0.104 mg, Manganese ~0.112 mg, Iron ~0.32 mg, Magnesium ~9 mg, Phosphorus ~15 mg, Calcium ~16 mg, Zinc ~0.10 mg. Key bioactive compounds: Anthocyanins ~28–80 mg/100 g fresh weight (primarily cyanidin-3-glucosylrutinoside, cyanidin-3-rutinoside, and cyanidin-3-sophoroside, which contribute to the deep red pigmentation and [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)); total phenolics ~146–312 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 g fresh weight; hydroxycinnamic acids including chlorogenic acid (~8–15 mg/100 g) and neochlorogenic acid; flavonols including quercetin-3-rutinoside and kaempferol glycosides (~2–5 mg/100 g); melatonin ~13.5 ng/g (one of the higher dietary sources, relevant to sleep regulation); proanthocyanidins present in moderate amounts. Tart cherry concentrate and juice show substantially higher anthocyanin concentrations (~45–270 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalents per 100 mL of juice). Bioavailability notes: Anthocyanin bioavailability is relatively low (estimated 1–5% absorption), though microbial metabolites such as protocatechuic acid and phenylacetic acid derivatives formed in the colon may contribute to systemic biological effects. Vitamin C enhances non-heme iron absorption. Melatonin from sour cherries has demonstrated measurable increases in urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin in human studies, suggesting functional bioavailability. Montmorency is the most studied cultivar; anthocyanin content varies significantly by cultivar, ripeness, and processing method (drying and juicing can concentrate or degrade specific polyphenols).

## Dosage & Preparation

In a pediatric clinical trial for nephrolithiasis, a dose of 1.25 mL/kg per day of sour cherry concentrate was used for 2 months. In adult trials for vascular and [cognitive](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) health, 30 mL of Montmorency cherry concentrate was administered twice daily (60 mL total per day) for up to 3 months. These commercial concentrates were not standardized to a specific anthocyanin content. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Sour cherry is generally considered safe for most individuals when consumed in food amounts or as a supplement; however, excessive intake may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea or stomach cramps. Due to its potential salicylate content, caution is advised for individuals on anticoagulant medications, as it might increase bleeding risk. Furthermore, individuals with existing medical conditions or those pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before using sour cherry supplements due to limited safety data.

## Scientific Research

Human evidence is limited but includes a randomized, noninferiority trial (n=68) demonstrating that sour cherry concentrate significantly reduced kidney stone numbers in children (PMID: 39128111). However, other randomized trials in adults found no significant effects on vascular function or [cognitive](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)-related metabolic markers (n=50). No meta-analyses were identified in the provided research.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Sour cherry has a history in traditional medicine, particularly for the management of kidney stones and urolithiasis. This historical use, likely within European or Iranian folk systems, has served as a basis for modern clinical investigations which are now beginning to provide scientific support for these applications.

## Synergistic Combinations

Potassium Citrate, Vitamin C, Curcumin, N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How does sour cherry help with kidney stones?

A randomized trial found that a daily dose of sour cherry concentrate reduced kidney stone number by 38.14% in children. While the precise mechanism for stone prevention isn't fully elucidated, it's thought to involve urinary changes and anti-inflammatory effects that may inhibit crystal formation.

### What are the primary bioactive compounds in sour cherry?

Sour cherry is rich in potent antioxidants, primarily anthocyanins like cyanidin-3-glucoside and peonidin-3-glucoside, which give it its deep red color. It also contains other polyphenols, such as quercetin and chlorogenic acid, and is a natural source of melatonin.

### What other health benefits does sour cherry offer besides kidney health?

Beyond kidney health, sour cherry is recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in muscle recovery post-exercise and reduce joint discomfort. Its natural melatonin content also makes it beneficial for improving sleep quality and regulating circadian rhythms.

### What is a typical dosage for sour cherry supplements?

Dosages for sour cherry vary depending on the form and desired benefit; for instance, in the kidney stone study, children received 1.25 mL/kg of concentrate daily. For general health benefits or muscle recovery, common recommendations range from 200-500 mg of extract or 30-60 mL of concentrate daily, often split into two doses.

### Are there any known side effects or drug interactions with sour cherry?

Sour cherry is generally well-tolerated, though high doses may cause mild gastrointestinal issues like stomach upset or diarrhea. Individuals taking blood thinners should exercise caution, as sour cherry contains salicylates which might increase bleeding risk. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns or are on other medications.

### What is the difference between sour cherry juice concentrate and whole sour cherry supplements?

Sour cherry juice concentrate delivers bioactive compounds in a condensed liquid form, making it easier to achieve therapeutic doses as demonstrated in clinical studies, whereas whole cherry supplements (capsules/powders) may provide a more convenient option with consistent dosing. Research on kidney stone prevention specifically used concentrate at 1.25 mL/kg daily, so concentrate may have stronger evidence for that particular application. The bioavailability and compound profile can differ between forms, with some nutrients concentrated while others may be lost during processing.

### Is sour cherry safe for children, and what would be an appropriate dose?

Sour cherry appears safe for children, as evidenced by a randomized controlled trial involving 68 children using 1.25 mL/kg daily of concentrate for kidney stone prevention without reported adverse effects. However, pediatric dosing should be weight-based and guided by a healthcare provider, since children's metabolism and nutritional needs differ from adults. Parents should consult a pediatrician before starting any supplement regimen, especially for children with existing kidney conditions or those taking medications.

### How does the strength of evidence for sour cherry's exercise recovery benefits compare to its kidney stone prevention effects?

Sour cherry's kidney stone prevention benefit is supported by at least one randomized controlled trial with specific efficacy data (38.14% reduction in stone number), whereas exercise recovery benefits are supported by scientific reviews without the same level of rigorous clinical trial evidence. This means kidney stone prevention has higher-quality evidence for making treatment decisions, while exercise recovery applications are promising but require more robust clinical research. When considering sour cherry supplementation, the intended use should align with the strength of available evidence.

---

*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
*License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*