Cherries (certain types) seem to have isoflavonoids & flavonoids (again, these are found in dark beer, wine, etc...just not the structure found in cherries) that when oxidized, form compounds that block COX-1 & COX-2 enzymes (inflammation). It seems that a variously hydroxylated benzoic acid with at least one double bond on the cyclic component is most common, and the position of the double bond is of utmost importance.
The kicker is that these compounds are blocking pathways/enzymes that are already treated by Aspirin, Ibuprofen & all NSAIDS, and the COX-2 inhibitors (Celebrex, Vioxx, etc.) This raises the question as to whether or not it's even safe for say, the elderly, since it's obviously concentrated stuff and blocking the COX enzymes can lead to Acute Renal Failure, Hypertension, Salt Retention, and GI bleed (ulcers).
As a lot of people know, I'm reluctant to block the COX pathway (ie, I don't use a lot of Celebrex/Motrin), except in entirely healthy young people. I've had to dialyze people for taking a couple motrin. :scream: This does not apply to anyone here. We're talking about older people with chronic renal failure, congestive heart failure or cirrhosis of the liver. I'm worried about one of those types getting a hold of buckets of tart cherry juice and going at it.
The anthocyanins are potent antioxidants and harmless.
Melatonin is also a strong antioxidant, and present here...so maybe we should all start slamming cherry juice with our vodka @ supper (for sleep). ;)
I'd like to see prospective, double blind trials looking not only @ relief scores, but also at serum creatinine (kidney function). 3 arms: Juice, Motrin/Vioxx, Placebo.
ie, like everything...it's not clear.