The knowledge of medicinal plants handed down through generations has the potential to unlock valuable treatments for numerous diseases, including cancer. Yet, while traditional practices provide anecdotal evidence, modern science requires solid empirical data. Unfortunately, funding for this type of research is often limited, especially for natural remedies that cannot be patented. This lack of profitability reduces interest from corporations and potential sponsors.
Sometimes, unexpected sources can provide undeniable proof of a plant’s medicinal properties. A notable example comes from a Native American high school student whose research on a traditional recipe and plant gained international attention at the Los Angeles International Science Fair. According to Indian Country Today, Destany “Sky” Pete, a member of the Shoshone and Paiute Tribes from the Duck Valley Indian Reservation (spanning Idaho and Nevada), discovered a link between her community’s current health problems and the absence of traditional foods, particularly the lost recipe for toishabui, also known as chokecherry pudding.
Curious about the potential health benefits of chokecherry pudding—especially its rumored ability to fight cancer—Sky decided to put these claims to the test. She partnered with Dr. Ken Cornell, a biochemistry professor at Boise State University with expertise in cancer cell research, to design an experiment.
Dr. Cornell analyzed four different chokecherry samples on uterine sarcoma cancer cells. Surprisingly, only one sample—the traditional chokecherry pudding—showed promising results. Within just 24 hours, the cancer cells began to die. Sky explained that the key ingredient behind this success was the inclusion of crushed chokecherry pits, an essential part of the original recipe. The findings were celebrated within her community as a powerful example of how traditional knowledge can align with modern science.
Sky’s project was such a success that it won the First Grand Prize at the 2017 Elko County Science Fair in Nevada, outperforming over 440 other submissions. Motivated by these results, she plans to continue her research to determine if chokecherry pudding can have similar effects on other types of cancer cells over longer testing periods.
Reflecting on the significance of her work, Sky highlighted the importance of traditional diets in maintaining health. “It was the traditional preparation of toishabui with the crushed seeds that had the results,” she said. “I feel like our ancestors were really healthy. Nowadays, we’re prone to diabetes and other diseases. But back then, it was our food that made us healthy.”
Chokecherry – The Cancer-Fighting Fruit Packed with Antioxidants
Chokecherry, a tree native to North America, bears small fruits bursting with antioxidants that ripen in late summer. Interestingly, the tiny seeds found within these fruits are believed to have cancer-fighting properties. Despite this, the seeds are often overlooked, particularly in popular recipes like chokecherry jam, which typically discard them. To bring back the traditional medicinal value of chokecherries, it’s essential to embrace the entire fruit—seeds included. A classic way to do this is through chokecherry pudding, a recipe that incorporates crushed seeds. While the seeds naturally contain a trace amount of cyanide-like compounds, they’re safe when consumed in moderation, and cooking the pudding neutralizes any potential risks. Other enjoyable ways to savor chokecherries include creating fruit leather, juice, or jam.
Traditional Chokecherry Pudding Recipe
Though variations of chokecherry pudding exist across different Native American tribes, the key principle is the same: use the entire fruit, including the pits. It’s important to note that chokecherries are not interchangeable with black cherries or other cherry varieties, as these differences may affect both the health benefits and potential risks.
Sky, a proponent of traditional recipes, highlights that authentic chokecherry pudding involves crushing the seeds along with the fruit. However, modern adaptations sometimes involve removing the seeds during the juicing process. According to Sky, the seeds may play an important role in promoting health and well-being.
Here’s a recipe shared by Idaho State University:
- Start by picking fresh chokecherries straight from the tree.
- Wash the berries thoroughly, then place them on a sturdy surface like stone. A stone mortar or even a meat grinder can help crush the pits.
- Crush the berries and pits together into a coarse mixture.
- Boil the mixture in a pot of water until the liquid changes color.
- Gradually add flour to the boiling mixture, stirring until it achieves a thin pudding-like consistency.
- Sweeten the pudding with sugar to taste.
- Remove from heat, let it cool, and enjoy.
Addressing Cyanide Concerns
When working with medicinal foods, it’s vital to remember the phrase, “the dose makes the poison.” Chokecherry seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide-like compounds, similar to those found in apple seeds, but they’re safe in small quantities. In fact, these compounds might even offer some health benefits. However, overconsumption could be dangerous, so it’s a good idea to consult a naturopathic doctor if you’re unsure.
Thankfully, there’s no need to worry when it comes to chokecherry pudding. Boiling the seeds during the cooking process renders them completely safe, allowing you to reap the health benefits of the fruit without any danger. For those who prefer to enjoy chokecherries for their flavor, alternatives like fruit leather, jam, juice, or even store-bought chokecherry jelly are excellent options.