People’s Pharmacy on UTIs, neuropathy and arthritis.

Q: Four ounces of tart cherry juice in the morning has alleviated the arthritis pain that I used to have in my hands. I’ve been doing this for the past two years. I’ve recommended it to many people. Some don’t experience relief from it, but many do. One friend uses cherry juice at bedtime to help her fall asleep.

A: There is growing evidence that ingredients in tart cherries may ease both inflammation and insomnia. The latest research involved a placebo-controlled trial of powdered Montmorency cherries (Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition online, May 26, 2016). Athletes who consumed the powder outperformed the group on placebo. They also experienced less muscle soreness and had lower levels of inflammatory markers in their bloodstream.

Anyone who would like to learn more about nondrug approaches for controlling inflammation and easing joint pain may find our Guide to Alternatives for Arthritis of interest. It can be downloaded for $2 from our website: peoplespharmacy.com.

Because Montmorency cherries also are rich in melatonin, they may help overcome jet lag and insomnia (European Journal of Nutrition, December 2012).