Cherry Kernels May Be Used in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Cherry Pit and Stem Show Potential for Neurodegenerative Disease Treatment Karya Farma HBX R&D (BAP), which gained attention through its preparations for NASA's 1 million dollar 'Deep Space Food Challenge', has now obtained a patent for research on neurodegenerative diseases. The team, which conducts scientific studies on endemic plants of the Aegean Region and products grown in Aydın, has announced that it is now working on cherries. Hakan Başlık, Scientific Research Projects Coordinator at Karya Farma HBX R&D (BAP), operating within ADÜ Technokent in Aydın, noted that not only the cherry itself but also its pit and stem—typically regarded as waste—are highly beneficial. He stated that cherry is effective for neurodegenerative diseases, considered one of the ailments of our age. Defining neurodegenerative diseases as a group of conditions characterized by progressive loss of nerve cells and resulting in loss of nervous system function, Başlık said: "The most common of these diseases is Alzheimer's disease. Parkinson's disease is the second most frequent. Because of its seasonality, we focused on cherry in our latest research. Cherry, which attracts considerable interest for its beautiful appearance and its never-ending pleasant taste, has countless benefits. It cleanses our body of toxins. The antioxidants it contains are protective against cancer. It helps lower cholesterol and blood sugar. It is rich in vitamins A, B, and C, magnesium and calcium. With the vitamin A it contains, it beautifies our skin and aids growth in children. Due to its high pectin and soluble fibre content, it has a cholesterol-lowering effect. Phosphorus-rich cherry strengthens the nervous system and has a calming property. Consumption of cherry by those with joint problems such as gout and rheumatoid arthritis can reduce their pain. Cherry stems are diuretic. They are effective in preventing constipation. It contains melatonin, which plays an important role in immune system function," describing cherry as a fruit to be consumed not only for its taste but also for its healing properties. Hakan Başlık, Scientific Research Projects Coordinator at Karya Farma HBX R&D (BAP), operating within ADÜ Technokent, stated: "The more sour the cherry, the higher the anthocyanin content. Cherry also contains two powerful antioxidants such as hydroxycinnamic acid and perillyl alcohol. As a result of our R&D studies, we are delighted to have obtained a brand new patent for this fruit that holds great promise for neurodegenerative diseases and which we have abundant trees of in our region."