Last verified: 17 days ago
Tart Cherry Extract
Also known as: Prunus cerasus extract, sour cherry extract, Montmorency cherry extract, anthocyanin-rich cherry extract
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Antioxidant-rich fruit extract. May reduce exercise-related muscle damage and inflammation.
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What it does
Tart cherry extract is a concentrated form of sour cherry (Prunus cerasus), packed with antioxidant compounds called anthocyanins. In a small clinical trial, 500 mg daily for 7 days reduced...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
500 mg daily based on available study data
What the Science Says
Tart cherry extract is a concentrated form of sour cherry (Prunus cerasus), packed with antioxidant compounds called anthocyanins. In a small clinical trial, 500 mg daily for 7 days reduced markers of oxidative stress and muscle damage after intense resistance exercise, and helped preserve grip strength. Early research also suggests it may lower certain inflammatory markers like IL-6, though most of this evidence comes from animal studies.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to treat or prevent Alzheimer's disease — the only AD research used mice, not humans. No human evidence it helps with weight loss or blood sugar control. Won't replace medical treatment for gout or arthritis. The anti-cancer findings are from mouse models only — don't count on it to prevent cancer.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Reduces oxidative stress and muscle damage markers after intense resistance exercise.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 500 mg/day
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Lowers IL-6 and other inflammatory markers in cell and animal models of obesity.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established human dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Boosts antioxidant capacity and reduces oxidative stress markers in animal and cell studies.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established human dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no human pharmacokinetic data in the provided studies. Anthocyanins are generally considered moderately bioavailable, but this was not directly measured in the provided trials.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Most compelling findings (Alzheimer's, cancer, diabetes) come from animal studies only — not proven in humans
- The human exercise trial had only 13 participants — results need replication in larger studies
- Many products use tart cherry juice (high calorie/sugar) rather than the low-calorie extract studied
- Synergistic effects with prescription drugs (statins, NSAIDs) studied in lab/animal settings — do not combine without medical advice
Products Containing Tart Cherry Extract
See how Tart Cherry Extract is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Tart Cherry Extract do?
Antioxidant-rich fruit extract. May reduce exercise-related muscle damage and inflammation.
What is the effective dose of Tart Cherry Extract?
500 mg daily based on available study data
Is Tart Cherry Extract safe?
Most compelling findings (Alzheimer's, cancer, diabetes) come from animal studies only — not proven in humans
What doesn't Tart Cherry Extract do?
Not proven to treat or prevent Alzheimer's disease — the only AD research used mice, not humans.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25