This blog post explains how tart cherry juice works inside the body to support joint health, sleep quality, and muscle recovery naturally.

Quick Summary Bullets

• Learn what makes tart cherry juice effective for joints, sleep, and recovery.

• Understand the role of antioxidants, anthocyanins, and potassium in your body.

• Discover how Traverse Bay Farms tart cherry juice works synergistically for full-body wellness.

What Is Cherry Juice and How Does It Work in the Body?

Published March 2013 | Updated October 2025

Curious about how cherry juice really works?

Despite major advances in food science, researchers are still uncovering exactly how nature’s remedies support the body. Yet, when it comes to tart cherry juice, we know a lot about why it’s so effective.

Packed with powerful antioxidants, natural melatonin, and muscle-supporting minerals, tart cherry juice has been studied for its ability to ease sore joints, improve sleep, and support recovery. In this post, we’ll explore what makes cherry juice such a scientifically fascinating and functional drink — and why Traverse Bay Farms uses Michigan-grown cherries in every glass bottle.

(For more on Michigan tart cherries, see our related article: What Is Tart Cherry Juice? Understanding Its Origins, Benefits, and Uses.)

Traverse Bay Farms: A Leader in Natural Fruit Wellness

Traverse Bay Farms has earned 38+ national food awards for its gourmet and wellness-focused fruit products — including its famous sediment-free tart cherry juice concentrate, the only one in the entire cherry industry with that guarantee. Every bottle is made using USA-grown Montmorency cherries from Northern Michigan.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Montmorency tart cherries are one of nature’s richest sources of anthocyanins and antioxidants.

• These compounds help neutralize free radicals and support natural inflammation management.

• Tart cherries naturally contain melatonin — the sleep-regulating hormone.

• Potassium in cherries supports muscle recovery and hydration.

• The benefits come from the synergy of all compounds working together.

How Cherry Juice Works: The Science Behind the Benefits

1. Antioxidants That Protect and Repair

Tart cherries are loaded with antioxidants — compounds that help protect cells from oxidative stress. According to research published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH)[1], oxidative stress contributes to aging, joint stiffness, and fatigue.

The deep red color of tart cherries comes from anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant that gives the fruit its pigment and healing power. Studies show these anthocyanins help manage inflammation naturally and promote joint comfort over time.

That’s why so many people who drink cherry juice daily report feeling less stiffness and more mobility.

2. Anthocyanins: Nature’s Joint Support Compounds

While many fruits contain anthocyanins, those in Montmorency cherries are unique. In one of the earliest studies by Michigan State University, researchers found that tart cherry anthocyanins were up to 10 times more powerful than aspirin at reducing certain inflammation markers — without the side effects of medication.

These findings sparked decades of interest in cherries as a natural way to soothe joint pain. When consumed regularly, tart cherry juice may help maintain healthy joint function by reducing oxidative damage and supporting connective tissue resilience.

3. Potassium for Muscle Function and Recovery

Ever wonder why so many athletes drink cherry juice after a workout? The secret lies in potassium, an essential mineral that helps regulate muscle contraction and fluid balance.

Low potassium levels can lead to muscle weakness or cramps. By restoring this vital nutrient, tart cherry juice helps muscles recover faster, especially after exercise or physical activity. This makes it a favorite among runners, cyclists, and weekend warriors alike.

4. Natural Melatonin for Restful Sleep

Tart cherries are one of the few natural sources of melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate sleep cycles. Drinking a glass of tart cherry juice for sleep in the evening may help increase melatonin levels naturally, improving both sleep quality and duration.

Better sleep isn’t just about rest — it allows the body to repair itself. During deep sleep, the body reduces inflammation, replenishes energy stores, and rebuilds tissue — meaning cherry juice supports recovery from the inside out.

5. The Power of Synergy: Why It All Works Together

Here’s where tart cherry juice really stands out. The benefits don’t come from any single nutrient — it’s how they work together.

• The anthocyanins maintain healthy joint function and ease joint discomfort due to physical exercise.
• The potassium supports muscles.
• The melatonin promotes restorative sleep.

When all three are active in the body, they form a cycle of recovery: better sleep leads to less inflammation, which leads to improved movement and energy the next day.

This synergy explains why tart cherry juice continues to gain attention from both athletes and everyday wellness seekers.

Summary: How Cherry Juice Works

Cherry juice works because of its synergistic compounds: anthocyanins for joint comfort, potassium for muscle recovery, and melatonin for natural sleep support. Together, they help the body rest, repair, and rejuvenate naturally — making it one of the simplest, most effective wellness drinks available.

Ready to Experience the Difference?

Ready to try tart cherry juice for yourself? Traverse Bay Farms offers the only sediment-free tart cherry juice concentrate in the entire industry — made with USA-grown Montmorency cherries and bottled in glass for purity and taste.

Enjoy it diluted in water, sparkling beverages, or smoothies for daily antioxidant and recovery support.

FAQs

Q: How much cherry juice should I drink daily?
A: Most people enjoy 1 oz of concentrate (mixed with 7 oz water) 7:1 ratio daily — morning for energy or evening for sleep support.

Q: Is Traverse Bay Farms cherry juice made with Michigan cherries?
A: Yes. We use as much locally grown, USA-only Montmorency cherries as possible for every batch.

Q: What makes it sediment-free?
A: Our bottling process removes natural pulp particles, ensuring smooth consistency without losing vital nutrients.

Q: Can I use cherry juice for joint support?
A: Research shows tart cherry anthocyanins help maintain healthy joints and support natural inflammation response.

Q: Is it safe to drink every day?
A: Yes, it’s a natural fruit product. Always consult your doctor if you have specific dietary restrictions.

People Also Ask

• What makes tart cherry juice different from sweet cherry juice?

• How long does it take for cherry juice to work?

• Why do athletes drink tart cherry juice after workouts?

• What’s the best time to drink tart cherry juice for sleep?

• What is the difference between tart cherries and sweet cherries?

Get Started Today!

Cherry juice isn’t just another health trend — it’s a well-studied, natural beverage with powerful compounds that support how your body recovers, rests, and rejuvenates. From joint comfort to better sleep, the science behind tart cherries is both simple and extraordinary.

As food scientists continue to explore how these compounds interact, one thing remains clear: when the body is nourished by nature, it performs and heals better. Explore more natural wellness insights in How to Chose the Best Cherry Juice.

Enjoy the Taste of Michigan Cherries

Want to see how tart cherry juice fits into your routine? Explore our award-winning tart cherry juice concentrate — made using as much Michigan-grown fruit as possible and Traverse Bay Farms is backed by 38+ national food awards.

Resource References

[1] USDA Cherry Nutrient Profile: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/
[2] NIH Study on Tart Cherry Antioxidants: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
[3] Product Guide from Traverse Bay Farms: https://www.traversebayfarms.com/pages/how-to-buy-cherry-juice
[4] Michigan State University - Tart Cherry Anthocyanins