Pomegranate fruit and bark (Punica granatum) have been used historically in folk medicines against illnesses caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and worms. Contemporary uses of the pulp and seeds demonstrate that pomegranate may be useful for a larger range of health concerns. Pomegranate fruit has potent antioxidant activity that protects cells from free radical damage and inflammation, which are at the root of many chronic diseases and cancers. (Note: Do not use pomegranate products if your are taking warfarin or other blood-thinning medication.)
Brain Health
The polyphenols in pomegranate fruit protect and repair the endothelial cells that line the interior walls of blood vessels. When these cells are healthy, they are elastic and allow blood to flow through arteries and veins uninhibited. As we age, these cells become impaired, leading to decreased blood flow to the brain, and possibly dementia. Polyphenols help to protect these cells, and increased cerebral blood flow improves brain function. According to a 2009 study in "Molecular Nutrition and Food Research," healthy blood vessels can maintain and improve brain health.
Heart Health
Pomegranate juice contains higher levels of antioxidants than most other fruit juices. According to a research review in "Nutrition Reviews," pomegranate juice contains potent antioxidants that reduce hypertension and inhibit the buildup of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the "bad" cholesterol. Reducing cholesterol is a major step in protecting yourself against heart attack and stroke.
Diabetes
People with diabetes mellitus have higher levels of glucose in their blood. This increases free radical damage, which can lead to cardiovascular diseases. A study in the Oct. 15, 2009 issue of the "Journal of Endocrinological Investigation" concluded that the antioxidants in pomegranate extract can reverse free radical damage and protect patients with type 2 diabetes from heart disease.
Uterine Stimulant
Beta-sitosterol, a natural plant sterol, is a major constituent of pomegranate seed extract. A study in the December 2009 issues of "Reproductive Sciences" demonstrated that beta-sitosterol in pomegranate seed extract can act as a uterine stimulant.
Strengthens Sore Muscles
The ellagitannins in pomegranate fruit may help you exercise more. A 2009 study in "Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise" showed that men who developed muscle soreness after being subjected to strenuous exercise recovered within two to three days because of the ellagitannins in their pomegranate extract.
Cancer
Pomegranate fruit contains chemicals with potent antitumor and anti-inflammatory properties. A 2009 report in "Integrative Cancer Therapies" demonstrated that pomegranate fruit extracts can inhibit metastasis in aggressive breast cancer.
Malaria
Pomegranate peels have been used in tribal areas of India to protect against and cure malaria. A September 2009 report in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" confirms that pomegranate rinds hold promise as an antimalarial therapy.
References
- "Molecular Nutrition and Food Research"; Vascular action of polyphenols; Ghosh D., Scheepens A.; March 2009
- "Nutrition Reviews"; Pomegranate juice: a heart-healthy fruit juice; Basu A., Penugonda K.; January 2009
- "Journal of Endocrinological Investigation"; The effects of polyphenol containing antioxidants on oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in type 2 diabetes mellitus without complications; Fenercioglu A.K., Saler T., Genc E., Sabuncu H., Altuntas Y.; October 2009
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