Cherries are often referred to as the "beauty fruit" for a good reason. These little gems are packed with nutrients that benefit our skin and overall health. With their bright red color, sweet taste, and delightful texture, they've earned a place in the hearts of many.
But, did you know that cherries not only taste good but also bring numerous health benefits? In this article, we'll explore the benefits of cherries and the people who should avoid them, so we can all make the most of this delicious fruit in a safe and effective way!
Why Cherries Are Called the "Beauty Fruit"?
Cherries have long been known for their beauty benefits. In traditional Chinese medicine, cherries are believed to "moisturize the skin" and promote a "healthy complexion." This is because they are loaded with iron. To put it into perspective, cherries have 6 times the iron content of strawberries, 10 times that of dates, and 20 times that of apples! This high iron content helps in producing healthy red blood cells, which is key for skin health.
Regular consumption of cherries can give us glowing, smooth, and hydrated skin. Applying cherry juice to your face can also help reduce wrinkles and lighten spots, keeping your skin youthful and radiant.
Health Benefits of Cherries
1. Combating Anemia
Cherries are rich in iron, a vital element in the production of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is crucial for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Iron helps in boosting the immune system, supporting brain function, and even slowing down the aging process. Consuming cherries regularly can help prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia, boost our overall vitality, and even enhance cognitive functions.
2. Preventing and Treating Measles
In the event of a measles outbreak, giving children cherry juice can help prevent infection. The pit of cherries has been traditionally used to induce sweating, which can help clear the skin rashes caused by measles.
3. Relieving Joint Pain and Reducing Inflammation
Cherries are believed to have a warming property that helps in eliminating wind and dampness from the body, making them useful for treating joint pain or conditions like arthritis. Cherry tree roots also have potent insect-repellent properties and can be used to expel intestinal worms.
4. Healing Burns and Wounds
A traditional remedy for burns and wounds involves using cherries to soothe the skin, prevent blisters from forming, and reduce pain. This natural remedy can be surprisingly effective for minor burns and frostbite as well.
5. Enhancing Skin Health
Cherries are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, carotene, and phosphorus. These nutrients contribute to healthier skin and overall beauty. Regular use of cherry juice on the face can brighten the skin, reduce wrinkles, and even out skin tone.
Who Should Avoid Eating Cherries?
While cherries are wonderful for most people, there are some groups who should be cautious about eating too many. Here's who should avoid indulging in cherries:
1. Children in Excess
Cherries are considered a "hot" food in traditional Chinese medicine, meaning they can generate heat in the body. For children, excessive consumption can lead to heat-related illnesses, such as respiratory issues, chronic cough, or even conditions like tuberculosis or chronic bronchitis. If a child shows symptoms like dry cough, yellowish and thick mucus, or afternoon fever, it's best to avoid cherries.
2. Overconsumption May Lead to Poisoning
Cherries contain cyanogenic compounds, which, when consumed in large amounts, can cause cyanide poisoning. While you would need to eat a lot of cherries for this to be a risk, it's important to consume them in moderation. If you eat too many and start feeling unwell, drinking sugar cane juice can help counteract the effects.
3. People with Heat Sensitivity
Since cherries are considered "hot" in nature, individuals prone to heat-related issues, such as excessive body heat or inflammatory conditions, should limit their cherry intake. If the weather is hot and you are already prone to getting heaty, having just 5 to 10 cherries at a time is sufficient. Eating a large bowl of cherries could be too much for your body to handle.
How to Enjoy Cherries This Summer?
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy cherries, and here are some refreshing ways to incorporate them into your diet:
1. Cherry Soup
For a cooling and nourishing treat, try making cherry soup. Combine 30g of fresh cherries with longan flesh (10g), wolfberries (10g), and water. Boil it until everything is soft, then add sugar to taste. This soup helps treat blood deficiencies and is perfect for improving fatigue and weakness.
2. Cherry Drinks
If you enjoy a bit of spirits, you can try making cherry drinks at home. Place 250g of fresh cherries in a jar, add 1000ml of white drinks, and seal the jar. Stir it every three days for about 15–30 days, and you'll have a delicious homemade cherry drinks to drink twice a day. This helps with kidney-related issues and alleviates joint pain.
3. Cherry Juice
Make your own cherry juice by blending 80g of fresh cherries with 30ml of water. You can sweeten it with sugar if desired. Drinking this juice twice a day can help with skin conditions like acne, scars, and sweat stains.
4. Cherry Paste
Another fun way to enjoy cherries is by making cherry paste. Boil 1000g of cherries with 200ml of water, then add sugar to taste. After reducing it to a thick paste, you can consume a spoonful twice daily to improve liver and kidney function, boost energy levels, and even help with conditions like low libido or fatigue.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cherries are not only a delicious fruit but also a superfood with numerous health benefits. They can help us maintain youthful skin, fight anemia, and even support joint health. However, it's essential to consume them in moderation, especially if you're in certain vulnerable groups. So, enjoy these beautiful, vibrant fruits this summer, but make sure you're mindful of how much you eat!
Let us know, Lykkers, do you enjoy cherries in your daily diet? If so, how do you prefer to eat them?
