Will Cherry Juice Help Arthritis?

Q:  A friend with rheumatoid arthritis told me that drinking 2 tablespoons of tart cherry juice mixed with 8 ounces of water three times a day is beneficial for arthritis. Does this really help?

A: Though it has not been proven in clinical trials, yes, I believe that drinking tart cherry juice mixed with water three times a day may be beneficial for some people with arthritis.

In traditional medicine, the fruit of sour cherry has been used orally for arthritis and gout. In folk medicine, the stem of the sour cherry is used to ease fluid retention and facilitate digestion. Cherries contain significant levels of important nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A and alpha-linolenic acid as well as traces of vitamin E, betacarotene, folacin and thiamine.

Cherries also contain varied antioxidants, including kaempferol and quercetin. These compounds, particularly quercetin, may have anti-inflammatory effects that are similar to those of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). The anti-inflammatory effects of quercetin might be due to its ability to inhibit the production and activity of inflammation-causing substances known as leukotrienes and prostaglandins as well as histamine. I sometimes prescribe quercetin supplements to my arthritis patients. The typical dosage is 400 milligrams (mg) to 500 mg three times a day.

There are all types of potions, lotions and notions purported to be beneficial for arthritis. Are they useful? Without clinical trials we have no scientific proof. But just because something isn't formally proven doesn't mean it doesn't work. I advise my patients to consult me before starting any kind of alternative therapy, so I can help them decide whether it is safe and cost-effective for them. Many of my patients come to me with all kinds of things that they discover are useful for them. I don't decrease a patient's medications, however, until I am convinced they are doing well.

Another point worth mentioning is that just because cherry juice helped your friend doesn't mean it will help you. Response to treatment differs among the various types of arthritis. Also, different treatments - both conventional medication and natural alternatives - work differently even in people with the same form of arthritis.

Before beginning any alternative treatment, it's always best to speak with your doctor. But I see no reason you shouldn't try cherry juice. You'll never know if it might work for you until you try.

JAMES MCKOY, MD
Rheumatologist

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