This picture reminds me of a little cherry convention. I’ve been asked to review a new cherry drink, but I thought I would indulge in a little cherry 101 first.

Did you know . . .

• Cherries are related to apricots
• Cultivation of cherries dates back to 300 b.c.
• Prunus avium, the common cherry tree is related to the rose bush!
• The name originates from Greek (of course) and in Latin means ‘of or for the birds’
• While America produces 90% of cherries today, the varieties we know and love were originally brought here by our European settlers
• The popular Bing cherry was named after the farm foreman, who happened to be Manchurian, of the farm in Oregon that developed it

The Little Healer
These little buggers offer a potent dose of antioxidants, but beyond that it is a type of antioxidant not found in most other fruit. Research shows that cherries contain anthocyanins, which protect against heart disease, cancer, and inhibit enzymes that cause inflammation. Health food store shelves are lining up with various ‘cherry’ products that tout the amazing benefits, primarily for pain relief, speedy recovery from exercise, improved sleep and even as the new anti-hangover cure.

John Davey, CEO of CherryPharm discovered the benefits after eating cherries and realizing an old tennis injury. Being inspired, he created this yummy drink that packs 50 cherries in every 8oz. bottle! It is extremely tasty. I drank it for a week and am convinced it helped with my aches and pains. Look for it in your local natural food store or go to their website, where they have specials for direct ordering!

I’ve never really cooked with cherries, but I buy bags of them in the summer for Wayne and the kids.

Please share your favorite cherry recipes!

eat. blog. be merry!
GD Meg