Melatonin in Cherries: Natural Sleep Support Backed by Science
Published: December 2010 | Updated: October 2025
Quick Summary
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Cherries naturally contain melatonin that supports restful sleep
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Backed by peer-reviewed research and real-world testimonials
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Traverse Bay Farms: Award-winning, USA-grown tart cherry products
Introduction: Do Cherries Really Have Melatonin?
If you’re still searching for a natural way to get a good night’s sleep, you may be surprised to learn that Montmorency tart cherries contain melatonin — the same sleep-regulating hormone your body produces.
Research published in peer-reviewed journals has shown that cherry juice may support longer, more restful sleep and help maintain your sleep-wake cycle without the grogginess some experience with synthetic melatonin supplements [1].
Traverse Bay Farms, winner of 38+ national food awards, offers tart cherry juice concentrate and capsules made with 100% USA-grown cherries only, backed by the industry’s only sediment-free guarantee.
What is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland that signals to your body when it’s time to wind down and rest. Many people take melatonin supplements to improve sleep, but these are often synthetic and may deliver doses much higher than your body needs.
That’s why food-based melatonin sources like tart cherries are appealing — they deliver smaller, natural amounts along with additional antioxidants and phytonutrients.
Do Cherries Contain Melatonin?
Yes. Studies have confirmed that Montmorency tart cherries contain measurable levels of melatonin. While the amount is lower than you’d find in over-the-counter pills, it’s still biologically significant and contributes to improved sleep quality.
A 2010 study published in the European Journal of Nutrition found that participants who drank tart cherry juice increased their sleep duration and reported improved sleep quality [2].
Health Benefits of Melatonin in Cherries
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Improved sleep duration and efficiency
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Fewer nighttime awakenings
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Natural regulation of circadian rhythm
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Additional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits thanks to anthocyanins and flavonoids naturally found in cherries
Cherries vs. Melatonin Supplements
| Feature | Tart Cherries (Juice/Capsules) | Synthetic Melatonin Pills |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Natural food-based | Lab-created |
| Dosage | Small, balanced amounts | Often 1–10 mg (high dose) |
| Additional Benefits | Antioxidants, inflammation support, joint recovery | Sleep only |
| Side Effects | None reported at food levels | Possible grogginess, vivid dreams, dependency |
| Taste/Enjoyment | Delicious juice or easy capsules | Capsule only |
Takeaway: Tart cherries provide natural melatonin plus whole-fruit benefits you can’t get from a pill.
Why Traverse Bay Farms is Different
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38+ National Food Awards – More than any other superfruit brand
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USA-Grown Only – Never imported, always Michigan Montmorency cherries
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Sediment-Free Guarantee – The only brand in the cherry industry with this purity standard
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Trusted Nationwide – By health experts, athletes, and thousands of satisfied customers
"I’ve tried melatonin pills before, but Traverse Bay Farms tart cherry juice actually helps me sleep better — and I feel refreshed in the morning." — Linda P., California
How to Use Cherry Juice for Sleep
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Serving Size: 1 oz (2 tablespoons) of cherry concentrate daily
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Dilution: Mix with 7 oz water (7:1 ratio) for a full glass
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Best Timing: 1–2 hours before bedtime
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Storage: Refrigerate after opening and use within 60 days
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Capsules: Take 1–2 capsules daily with a full glass of water
Optional tip: Add cherry concentrate to sparkling water or herbal tea as a calming evening beverage.
FAQs
Q: How much melatonin is in cherries?
A: Tart cherries contain small but meaningful amounts of melatonin that support better sleep quality.
Q: Is cherry juice as effective as melatonin supplements?
A: Studies show tart cherry juice can improve sleep naturally, without the side effects sometimes linked to high-dose pills.
Q: When should I drink cherry juice for sleep?
A: Most people drink it 1–2 hours before bed.
Q: What type of cherries are best for melatonin?
A: Montmorency tart cherries from Michigan are considered the gold standard.
Q: What makes Traverse Bay Farms different?
A: Award-winning, USA-grown, sediment-free guaranteed cherry products you can trust.
Conclusion: Natural Sleep Support You Can Trust
Cherries don’t just taste great — they’re one of nature’s few food-based sources of melatonin. When combined with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, tart cherry juice is more than just a sleep aid; it’s a wellness solution.
Traverse Bay Farms is proud to offer award-winning tart cherry products, made only from USA-grown Montmorency cherries and backed by our sediment-free guarantee.
Order today and start experiencing deeper, more refreshing sleep in as little as 7 days — risk-free.
Feel the Difference Natural with Traverse Bay Farms Cherry Juice Concentrate
- Result conducted by Dr. Russell Reiter - *Cherry powder is used to make cherry capsules
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