The cherry, loved by many, is a fruit that is born from the cherry tree, scientific name Prunus cerasus . Belonging to the Rosaceae family , the plant, in addition to producing delicious fruit, has medicinal properties in its fruit and stem – peduncle. Native to temperate regions, the cherry can be harvested in late spring. Depending on its variety, it can be harvested until around August.
Index
Benefits and properties
With properties that attribute action such as diuretic, laxative, anti-infective and anti-inflammatory, the cherry can be consumed in the form of syrup, juice, stem tea and stem decoction.
Cherry fruit is indicated for the treatment of gout, as they are rich in anthocyanosides, as well as helping to treat rheumatism, insomnia problems – this due to the presence of a hormone called melatonin, which regulates sleep – and constipation. For this, tea or syrup should be consumed.
The peduncle or stem is indicated in the form of tea or decoction for the treatment of cystitis, urinary tract problems and urinary stones. This tea can also be used to assist in the weight loss process due to the laxative effect attributed to the large amount of vegetable fibers – which contain pectin –, also helping to bring satiety.
Due to the large amount of flavonoids, the fruit can also be used to relieve muscle pain and aid in heart health due to its antioxidant effect, which helps prevent the accumulation of fat in the arteries.
Rich in vitamin C, A, protein, calcium, iron, and other benefits, cherry can also help control high blood pressure, strengthen immunity, and regulate uric acid levels in the blood.
How to prepare tea?
To dry the handles, place them in the sun daily for a week. Then use them to prepare tea. Use the proportion of three tablespoons for every liter of water.
In a container, put the water and bring to a boil. When it comes to a boil, turn off the heat and add the stems, leaving it to rest until it warms up – an average of ten minutes -. Then strain and consume throughout the day.
Contraindications and side effects
Excessive consumption of cherry can cause diarrhea due to its laxative effect. No contraindications were found in the consulted literature.
Heads up
All benefits are associated with tea or fresh fruit, not the one commonly found sold in preserves. These, maraschino or in syrup have a lot of sugar and its nutrients reduced. Always try to consume fresh cherries.
