What is Pomegranate?
Pomegranate is a round shaped fruit with juicy red seeds that
have a sweet taste.
The seeds, peel and aril of the Pomegranate fruit are all edible, but it
is the juicy seeds that are often the primary source of nutrients.
In addition to being a high source of fiber, pomegranate is an excellent
source of essential amino acids, vitamin A, C, E, B5, B3 or Niacin,
Iron, folic acid, potassium, and antioxidant polyphenols.
These properties make pomegranate a great home remedy for many ailments.
What are the Benefits of Pomegranate?
Pomegranate has been consumed for thousands of years due to its
anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging and other healing
properties.
Women have used Pomegranate for centuries for beauty concerns including
wrinkles, acne, dry and saggy skin.
Many studies have also shown that pomegranate may help with heart
disease, arteriosclerosis, blood clots, weakened immune system, viral
infections, dental plaque, erectile dysfunction and prostate and breast
cancer.
A few recent studies suggest that regular use of Pomegranate extract may
slow the spread of tumors and cancerous cells.
Uses of Pomegranate
Cancer
It is believed that the anti-oxidant activity in Pomegranate may induce
apoptosis, a process which causes self destruction of cancerous cells.
While a few studies have shown encouraging results in the treatment of
cancer, further studies are still required to confirm these results.
Nevertheless, in people with a family history of cancer, daily intake of
at least 8 oz. of organic Pomegranate juice or a Pomegranate extract or
oil capsule twice daily may help suppress the development of cancerous
cells.
Cold and Flu
The high amount of vitamin C in Pomegranate may help with flu and cold symptoms.
Simply drink 1 to 2 glasses of pure Pomegranate juice diluted in one litre of water throughout the day.
Coronary Heart Disease
A few studies suggest that Pomegranate may expedite the oxygen supply to
the heart muscles and help treat many heart conditions including
cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure,
and coronary heart disease.
The anti-platelet activity of Pomegranate is also known to help with
arterial plaque and blood clots.
Therefore, simply drinking 8 oz. of organic Pomegranate Juice daily for
at least three months may provide significant improvement in heart
health.
Dental Plaque and Gingivitis
The antioxidant activity of Pomegranate juice may prevent and remove
dental plaque and restore optimal gum health.
Therefore a simple remedy for plaque and gingivitis is to use organic
Pomegranate juice as a mouth wash or chew on one tablespoon of
pomegranate seeds after every meal.
Erectile Dysfunction
Pomegranate may help with erectile dysfunction by increasing and
balancing the blood flow to the heart and subsequently to the rest of
the body.
Simply drink a glass of organic Pomegranate Juice or take one capsule of
Pomegranate extract daily as a natural remedy for erectile dysfunction.
Osteoarthritis
Pomegranate is rich in potassium and polyphenols which may help with the
restoration of cartilage in joints.
Therefore, drinking a glass of organic Pomegranate juice or eating one
whole Pomegranate daily can inhibit the onset of Osteoarthritis.
PMS and Menopausal Problems
Pomegranate is believed to help balance the estrogen level in women.
Therefore, daily intake of a glass of pomegranate juice or a capsule of
Pomegranate extract can help combat PMS and menopausal problems.
Wrinkles and Saggy Skin
The anti-oxidant properties of Pomegranate may contribute to the regeneration of skin cells and reverse the signs of aging such wrinkles
and saggy skin.
Drinking a glass of Pomegranate juice or eating a Pomegranate daily can
reduce wrinkles and give a rosy glow to the skin.
Pomegranate juice can also be applied directly to the affected skin for
half an hour before a shower for a healthy and rejuvenated look.
Pomegranate oil can also be mixed into your daily moisturizer to help
maintain younger, healthy looking skin.
What are the Side Effects of Pomegranate?
Pomegranate is normally a safe fruit to eat when consumed in moderation.
However, an overdose of Pomegranate seeds, its juice, oil or extract may
cause diarrhea or upset stomach.
In rare cases, some individuals can be allergic to the fruit.
If you notice any sort of itchiness, swollen lips or tongue, or
difficulty in swallowing or breathing, you should discontinue use and to
consult your physician immediately.
Where and How to Buy Pomegranate
Fresh pomegranate fruit and packaged pomegrante juice can be bought at many grocery stores.
When buying Pomegranate Juice, it is recommended to look for 100% pure organic Pomegranate juice with no added sugars.
You can also find Pomegranate Oil and extract at many herbal food stores.
