Pomegranate origin begins in Egypt thousands of years ago. Some say it's the native fruit of Persia whereas others say it's native to Iran and India. It was cultivated in these countries and a few other countries as well such as the East Indies, Asia, Africa, and Malaysia.
Botanica Name: Punicum malum
Pomegranate varieties are Roja española, Mauritus, PR-1-67, Cabezona, Pernambuco, Montufar, Abacaxi, Ripley, James Quenn, Queen, Spanish Jewel, Sugar Loaf, Singapore Spanish, Masmerah, Cayena Lisa, Champaka, Monte Lirio, Perolera, Barón de Rothschild, Brecheche, Burmanguesa, Maipure, Rondon etc.
The pomegranate has amazing level of nutrition. Considered as a superfood, pomegranate is a rich source of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber that may protect against and even improve several diseases, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease; also help to prevent and arrest the development of certain cancers, in addition to protecting the health of the mouth and skin.
Nutritional profile
Health Benefits
Fight Against Prostate Cancer
One of the common types of cancer in men is Prostate cancer.
Research suggests that pomegranate extract may induce apoptosis or cell death and slow cancer cell reproduction.
Several studies on human, that shows drinking one cup of pomegranate juice per day prevents cancer or reduces the risk.
MAIN THING: Regularly consumption of Pomegranate juice may lower the risk of cancer.
Lower Blood Pressure
High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the common problems in people which is responsible for heart diseases.
A study conducted on people suffer with hypertension, Drinking half cup of pomegranate juice daily for two weeks shows significant reduction in blood pressure.
Another study carried out on people with coronary heart disease, Consuming pomegranate juice may improve blood flow to the heart.
MAIN THING: Pomegranate juice beneficial for heart health and protect the heart and arteries.
Arthritis and Joint Pain
Now a days Arthritis is a common problem. Pomegranate has high concentration of antioxidants that's why it has powerful anti inflammatory effects, it helps to treat arthritis.
Researchers suggest that pomegranate extract can lower the risk of osteoarthritis.
MAIN THING: Due to anti inflammatory properties in pomegranate relieves the pain from arthritis.
Improve fertility and Sexual performance
High concentration of antioxidants in Pomegranate juice can reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative damage can impair blood flow, shown to cause erectile dysfunction and decrease fertility in women.
A study conducted on rabbits found that Pomegranate juice, help to increase blood flow and erectile response, but it was not statistically significant.
MAIN THING: Drinking pomegranate juice can Improve fertility and Sexual performance.
Sharpen your Memory
Some studies found that pomegranate can sharp memory.
Researchers conducted study on 28 older adults with memory complaints found that daily one cup of pomegranate juice significantly improved memory.
In Animal Studies suggest that pomegranate may also help to fight against Alzheimer's disease.
MAIN THING: A recent study found that daily drinking pomegranate juice may improve learning and memory.
Safety Profile
Pomegranate juice and extracts are Safe.
Pomegranate is Unsafe when the root, stem or peel are taken by mouth in large amounts. The root, stem, and peel contain poisons.
Warnings & Precautions
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Pomegranate juice is Safe.
Low blood pressure: Drinking pomegranate juice can slightly lower blood pressure. Patients suffer with low BP can avoid pomegranate juices
Allergies: People with plant allergies can avoid pomegranate consuption.
Surgery: Avoid taking pomegranate at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Interactions
Moderate Interaction with ACE inhibitors, Antihypertensive drugs and Rosuvastatin and Minor Interaction with amlodipine, diltiazem, verapamil, Calan and many others.
Selection and Storage
Selection
Choose Fruits it should be plump and round, heavy for their size, with a rich, fresh color and should be free of cuts and blemishes.
Storage
Pomegranate Stored in a cool dry area for about 1-2 months in the refrigerator. The seed pips can be frozen in an airtight bag up to one year. Fresh juice should be refrigerated and used within 2-3 days.