Pomegranate fruit has a long history of dietary use, and research is now indicating that pomegranate may contribute to healthy skin and protect it from sun damage. See a nutritionist to find out daily recommended doses of pomegranate and other dietary changes that can keep your skin bright and healthy.
Anti-Wrinkle
A key active ingredient of pomegranate, ellagic acid, may help prevent the wrinkles associated with exposure to sun. According to a study published in the August 2010 issue of "Experimental Dermatology," in animal models ellagic acid from pomegranate or berries helped to reduce sink inflammation and prevent collagen destruction caused by exposure to sun. Collagen is a protein found in the skin that maintains the elasticity of the skin; when this substance is reduced in the skin, wrinkles develop.
Improves Dark Spots
If you have dark spots such as freckles and skin stains, you know they often get darker after exposure to sun. Ellagic acid from pomegranate can help you with this condition as well. Research published in the October 2006 issue of the "Journal of Nutritional Science and Dermatology" evaluated the benefits of pomegranate in 13 women. The study noted amelioration in skin stains and freckles, as well as increased skin brightness, in the subjects who consumed pomegranate.
May Prevent Skin Cancer
UV-B radiation from the sun is linked not only with wrinkles and dark spots, but also with certain forms of skin cancer. Once again, pomegranate may help protect the skin from developing cancer related to sun exposure. Pomegranate extracts may inhibit the formation of cancer in skin cells, according to a study using animal models that was published in the November 2010 issue of "Photochemistry and Photobiology."
Considerations
Pomegranate fruit, juice or extract may help keep your skin healthy. As with any other fruits and herbs, allergic reactions may occur in susceptible individuals, and medical literature includes pomegranate as a possible food allergen. Thus, if you never consumed pomegranate, try a small quantity and watch for any reaction such as skin irritation or swelling of the face or throat. Keep in mind that consuming this fruit does not replace conventional medications you may be taking.
References
- PubMed.gov: Dietary compound ellagic acid alleviates skin wrinkle and inflammation induced by UV-B irradiation
- PubMed.gov: Effects of oral administration of ellagic acid-rich pomegranate extract on ultraviolet-induced pigmentation in the human skin
- PubMed.gov: Oral feeding of pomegranate fruit extract inhibits early biomarkers of UVB radiation-induced carcinogenesis in SKH-1 hairless mouse epidermis
- PubMed.gov: Adverse reaction to pomegranate ingestion
- FoodRefrences.com: Pomegranate History
