Cherries Cherry juice is now being tested as a new treatment for osteoarthritis. These tests follow earlier research which suggests that the compounds found in cherries may help to ease the disease that causes a lot of discomfort.

The compounds in cherries, particularly tart ones, have been found to reduce inflammation and pain in the same way that an aspirin would.

Previous research at Michigan State University found that compounds called anthocyanins, which give tart cherries (sometimes known as sour red cherries) their color, may have anti-inflammatory properties and contain protective antioxidants.

In the latest trial, which is due to start this month at the Philadelphia Medical Center in the US, men and women with osteoarthritis will be given a tart cherry juice drink for six weeks, to see if it really has an effect on their use of painkillers, and whether it improves their ability top walk.