Cherry Blossom – May Plant of the Month

Medicinal Plant of the Month May: Cherry Blossom

In May, many trees and shrubs delight every nature lover and gardener with their lush inflorescences. This also applies to the cherry tree, which shows its most beautiful blossoms in April and May. The cherry blossom not only looks breathtakingly beautiful, but also has a special meaning. It indicates the end of the cold season and is a symbol of spring.

Cherry blossom: symbol of rebirth and purity

In Japan, it represents rebirth and purity. Her beauty is celebrated there year after year. In East Asia, as a pure extract, it is a popular ingredient in skin care products. It is sometimes used as a counterpart to hyaluronic acid. It provides intensive moisture, helps with skin irritations and has a calming and anti-inflammatory effect. It is rich in antioxidants and protects the skin from harmful environmental influences. Even in the field of anti-aging, cherry blossoms are becoming increasingly popular. Essential fatty acids from the flower oil ensure that the complexion is cared for and kept supple.

But not only the cherry blossom itself – other plant parts of the Prunus avium Linnaeus are also rich in bioactive compounds.

Rich in bioactive compounds

For example, sweet and sour cherries are rich in polyphenols, cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside. In addition to anthocyanins, cherries are also rich in hydroxycinnamate and flavin-3-ols. The antioxidant melatonin in particular is well known to many who suffer from insomnia. Melatonin is also found in sweet and sour cherries and has an influence on sleep regulation.

The consumption of cherries is therefore health-promoting in many ways. Results from human studies show that the consumption of cherries can prevent chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular diseases or diabetes. And more good news for all those who are active in sports: After a hard workout, it is best to reward yourself with fresh cherries – they can relieve your sore muscles.

Kelley DS, Adkins Y, Laugero KD. A Review of the Health Benefits of Cherries. Nutrients. 2018;10(3):368. Published 2018 Mar 17. doi:10.3390/nu10030368