Health benefits of cherries: From a diet must-have to DIY face mask, you cannot ignore this nutrition powerhouse

Health benefits of cherries: Rich in polyphenols, cherries can contribute to better heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and enhancing blood flow (Image: Canva)

Cherries offer numerous health benefits for both the body and skin. Packed with antioxidants and nutrients, they help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, aid in sleep quality, and even lower the risk of certain cancers.

For the skin, cherries provide anti-ageing properties, hydration, exfoliation, and acne-fighting benefits. To incorporate cherries into your skincare routine, you can apply cherry juice topically, make a DIY face mask, or use skincare products with cherry extract. Whether eaten or applied, cherries are a natural way to promote overall well-being and achieve a radiant complexion.

Health benefits of cherries

Cherries are a nutritious addition to any diet, offering a range of health benefits that can support your well-being. Here's a closer look at some of the potential advantages of consuming cherries:

Reduce inflammation: Cherries contain anthocyanins and antioxidants that possess anti-inflammatory properties, says dermatologist Raghav Sharma. This can be beneficial in lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis.

Improve heart health: Rich in polyphenols, cherries can contribute to better heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and enhancing blood flow. The fiber content in cherries also aids in lowering cholesterol levels.

Enhance sleep quality: Cherries contain melatonin, a hormone crucial for regulating sleep-wake cycles. Studies suggest that consuming cherries or cherry juice may improve sleep duration and quality, especially for people dealing with insomnia.

Aid in exercise recovery: Compounds in cherries can reduce inflammation and muscle damage post-exercise, improving recovery time and reducing muscle soreness.

Lower risk of getting certain cancers: Antioxidants in cherries, particularly anthocyanins, offers protection against specific types of cancer, such as colon and breast cancer.

Improve brain function: The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in cherries help protect brain cells, enhancing cognitive function and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

Skin benefits of cherries

When it comes to skincare, cherries are a natural powerhouse. Their abundance of antioxidants and nutrients can work wonders for your skin. Here's how cherries can benefit your skin:

Help in brightening skin: Vitamin C inhibits melanin production, leading to a brighter complexion. Cherries can help diminish dark spots, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation.

Keep body hydrated: With over 80 percent water content, cherries provide excellent hydration for the skin, maintaining moisture levels and promoting a supple appearance.

Exfoliate: Natural alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like malic acid and tartaric acid in cherries gently exfoliate dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and improving skin texture.

Soothe the skin: Anti-inflammatory compounds in cherries, such as anthocyanins and quercetin, soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation.

Fight acne: Cherries contain salicylic acid, a natural exfoliant that penetrates pores to unclog them. The antibacterial properties of cherries also help reduce acne breakouts.

Tighten pores, control oil: Astringent properties in cherries control oil production, making them ideal for oily or combination skin. These properties also tighten and minimize the appearance of pores.

Protect against sun: Antioxidants like vitamin C and anthocyanins in cherries protect the skin from UV damage, providing a natural defense against the sun.

Help in reducing scars: Cherries' natural acids promote cell turnover and exfoliation, helping to fade scars and hyperpigmentation over time.

Anti-Bacterial: Compounds like p-coumaric acid in cherries have antibacterial properties that inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.

How to use cherry for skincare

Incorporating cherries into your skincare routine is easy and effective. Here are some simple ways to reap the benefits:

Include it in your diet: Consuming cherries regularly provides internal nourishment for healthy skin.

Apply it topically: Apply cherry juice directly to the skin for brightening and antioxidant protection. Soak a cotton ball in cherry juice and apply to the face, then rinse off after 10-15 minutes.

Use as a DIY face mask: Create a hydrating and exfoliating face mask by mixing mashed fresh cherries with honey and plain yoghurt. Apply and leave it on for 10-15 minutes, before rinsing off.

Cherry extract in skincare products: Look for skincare products containing cherry extract for added antioxidant benefits. Mix a few drops of cherry extract with facial oil or moisturiser for extra hydration.

Cherry lip scrub: Make a DIY lip scrub using coconut oil, mashed cherries, and sugar. Gently massage onto lips, then rinse off for smooth, exfoliated lips.