Wild Cherry Bark: The Traditional Remedy
When discussing whether cherry is good for a cough, it is crucial to distinguish between the bark and the fruit. While the fruit is a popular snack, the bark of the wild cherry tree (Prunus serotina) has a long history of use in herbal medicine for respiratory ailments.
How Wild Cherry Bark Soothes Coughs
Wild cherry bark contains naturally occurring cyanogenic glycosides, specifically prunasin. Once metabolized in the body, these compounds can act as mild sedatives on the respiratory nerves, helping to suppress the urge to cough. This makes wild cherry bark particularly useful for dry, irritating, and spasmodic coughs.
Additionally, the bark has astringent properties, which can help to dry up excess mucus in the respiratory tract. This dual action of suppressing the cough reflex and managing mucus makes it a versatile ingredient in many herbal cough remedies.
Tart Cherry Juice: Antioxidants and Sleep
While the bark is the traditional cough remedy, tart cherry juice offers different benefits that can aid recovery from an illness that causes a cough. The vibrant red color of tart cherries comes from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory effects. By reducing inflammation, tart cherry juice can help alleviate associated symptoms like a sore throat and general sickness.
Furthermore, tart cherries are a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Adequate sleep is vital for the immune system to fight off infection, so drinking tart cherry juice may indirectly help with recovery. However, unlike the bark, the juice does not have direct cough-suppressing effects.
The Risks of Sweet Cherries and Acidity
While cherry cough drops are a common sight in pharmacies, they often contain menthol as the active ingredient to soothe the throat, with the cherry providing flavor. Consuming actual sweet cherry fruit or juice during an illness can sometimes be counterproductive. Cherries, like other stone fruits, can be acidic. If you have a sensitive or irritated throat from coughing, this acidity may cause further irritation and potentially worsen your cough. The skin of stone fruits can also feel rough, which can be irritating to a raw throat. Therefore, while antioxidant benefits exist, moderation is key, and some may find it better to avoid the fruit during a bad cough.
Using Wild Cherry Bark: Methods of Consumption
Wild cherry bark can be prepared in several forms for use as a cough remedy:
- Syrups: Often combined with honey and other herbs like mullein, a wild cherry bark syrup is a popular way to soothe irritated throats and suppress coughs, especially for children.
- Teas and Infusions: A simple tea can be made by infusing dried wild cherry bark in hot water. This offers a gentle method for respiratory support. A warm beverage can also help to thin mucus.
- Tinctures: Concentrated alcohol-based extracts offer a more potent and faster-acting way to take wild cherry bark. They are easily dosed and can be mixed with water or tea.
Comparison: Wild Cherry Bark vs. Tart Cherry Juice for Coughs
| Feature | Wild Cherry Bark | Tart Cherry Juice |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Cough suppressant, expectorant | Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, sleep aid |
| Mechanism | Mildly sedates respiratory nerves, dries mucus | Reduces inflammation via antioxidants |
| Best For | Dry, irritating, spasmodic coughs | General sickness symptoms, aiding sleep |
| Throat Irritation | Soothing effect | Can be acidic, potentially irritating |
| Scientific Evidence | Used traditionally, but limited human trials | Research supports anti-inflammatory and sleep benefits |
| Safety | Generally safe in moderation; contains small amounts of cyanide | Generally safe; moderation is advised |
Potential Risks and Considerations
While natural, remedies derived from cherry bark are not without risks. Because wild cherry bark contains small amounts of cyanide, excessive intake can be toxic. It is crucial to use it in recommended dosages and to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for children, pregnant or nursing women, and those with severe liver or kidney disease. Wild cherry bark can also interact with certain medications.
For most people, the main risk associated with cherry fruit consumption during a cough is the acidity. If you find that acidic foods worsen your throat irritation, it may be best to avoid sweet cherries and opt for other soothing foods like honey and warm broth.
Conclusion: The Final Word on Cherry for Cough
Ultimately, the effectiveness of cherry for a cough depends entirely on which part of the cherry plant you are using. Wild cherry bark is the proven traditional remedy with properties that directly suppress coughs and manage mucus, although human clinical trial data is scarce. Tart cherry juice can provide indirect relief by reducing inflammation and promoting restful sleep through its antioxidant and melatonin content. However, the fruit itself, particularly if sweet or acidic, could potentially irritate a sensitive throat. For targeted cough relief, especially from dry, nagging coughs, wild cherry bark in the form of a syrup, tea, or tincture is the historically supported choice, whereas tart cherry juice is a supportive option for overall wellness during a cold.
Note: Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal remedy, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications. You can find more information on herbal remedies from reputable sources such as the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
Sources
Wild Cherry - Uses, Side Effects, and More. WebMD. The Ultimate Guide to Wild Cherry Bark. WishGarden Herbs. Top Fruits to Avoid During a Cough and Cold. Clinic One. Wild cherry's therapeutic uses | Research Starters. EBSCO. The 15 Best Foods to Eat When You Have a Cold. GoodRx. Tart Cherry and Lime Immunity Sparkler. THIRA Health.
