The properties of cherries and sour cherries and uses in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries

11 Dec 2024
1310

Cherries, particularly the Prunus cerasus (sour cherry) and Prunus avium (sweet cherry), have been celebrated for centuries for their taste and cultural significance. Beyond their symbolic representation of renewal, cherries are now at the forefront of modern pharmaceutical and cosmetic products, supported by extensive scientific research and industrial applications.

Rich in flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids, cherries are renowned for their strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown their ability to reduce oxidative stress, a key factor in chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, and metabolic disorders. Cherry extract, in particular, has proven effective in reducing muscle pain, improving sleep quality due to its natural melatonin content, and managing inflammatory responses.

Recent advancements in the field of nanotechnology have optimized the biodisponibility of cherry extracts. Research highlights the use of nanoparticles to protect the stability of bioactive compounds during digestion, ensuring their effectiveness at the cellular level.

Cherry derivatives are highly sought after in skin care for their antioxidant and moisturizing properties. Studies show that cherry extracts can improve product formulations, enhancing foam stability and viscosity in applications such as moisturizers and shower gels.

Cherry pits, often considered waste, contain powerful antioxidants such as cumarolic derivatives and flavonoids. These compounds have been shown to protect skin cells from oxidative stress, making cherry derivatives a sustainable choice for natural cosmetics.

Leading companies such as Shiseido and The Body Shop incorporate cherry blossom and fruit extracts into their skin care lines to combat aging and promote hydration. Kérastase, a leader in hair care, integrates cherry seed oil for nourishment and shine.

Cherries are also widely used in the food and beverage industry. Iconic products include Luxardo S.p.A.'s cherry liqueurs, MARASKA d.d. cherry brandy, and artisanal cherry liqueurs from LEOPOLD BROS. These companies combine tradition and innovation, highlighting the natural flavors of cherries and their health benefits.

In perfumery, the delicate floral and fruity notes of cherries are often replicated using aldehydes and synthetic aromatic compounds. Unlike cosmetics, the perfume industry relies on these compounds to mimic cherry scents, ensuring consistency and sustainability in fragrance production.

Cherries and their extracts represent the intersection between tradition and cutting-edge science. From reducing oxidative stress to enhancing beauty products, their diverse applications make them valuable across all sectors. Supported by clinical research and industrial innovation, cherries remain a natural concentrate of health and beauty.

Images: Ahmad Jalliko; SL Fruit Service

Ahmad Jalliko
R&D Chemist & Cosmetics


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

Farewell to a great cherry expert

27 Jun 2023

For many years Nicola Dallabetta worked at the Agricultural Institute of San Michele all'Adige, now the E. Mach Foundation, and had recently embarked on a new adventure through collaboration with Agromillora.

2025 Cherries: Yakima Valley Crop Grows 9% Over Previous Year

Production

19 Jun 2025

The 2025 cherry season in the U.S. Northwest looks promising: 21.4 million boxes forecasted, a 9% increase over 2024. Optimism rises for exports and domestic sales, thanks to an evenly set crop, better timing, and less overlap with California’s cherry harvest.

In evidenza

Sweet cherry in Volgograd: irrigation and nutrition for stronger seedlings

Nurseries

03 Sep 2025

A five-year study in Southern Russia, Volgograd region, showed how targeted irrigation and balanced nutrition improve vigor, uniformity, and commercial quality of sweet cherry seedlings, while optimizing water use in arid agricultural environments with limited resources.

First Asian wasps released in the Netherlands against Drosophila suzukii

Crop protection

03 Sep 2025

Asian parasitoid wasps Ganaspis kimorum have been released in the Netherlands to fight Drosophila suzukii, a pest damaging cherries, strawberries and raspberries. The WUR-led project aims to reduce crop losses through biological control and more sustainable farming.

Tag Popolari