Pomegranate
Punica granatum
Perhaps no other fruit in the world is so steeped in culture and history as the pomegranate. For 4000 years the Pomegranate has been depicted as a symbol of prosperity, hope, and abundance in every time period, and part of the world inspiring artists, authors, and world leaders. Scholars maintain that the forbidden fruit of the “tree of knowledge” eaten by Eve was in fact not an apple but a pomegranate. The name is thought to come from the French; pomme garnete, literally "seeded apple" or more likely the Latin pōmum "apple" and grānātum "seeded". It has figured in many ancient religious texts including the Bible and the Quran, and figures prominently in Greek Mythology. It is native to modern day Iran and is widely cultivated throughout the Middle East, Mediterranean, southern Europe, tropical Africa, Latin America, and in the United States much cultivation in California and Arizona. Its multi-seeded deep red arils (seeds) symbolize fertility and prosperity in several cultures.
What is Pomegranate Used For?
Pomegranate juice is high in three different types of antioxidants; tannins (Punicalagins), anthocyanins, and ellagic acid. Ancient cultures used the juice and seeds primarily as a food, but one cannot overlook the historical importance of its use for health purposes. In India in Ayurvedic practice the rind of the fruit and the bark of the pomegranate tree is used as a traditional remedy for supporting multiple digestive functions. The seeds and juice are classified as a bitter astringent (pitta or fire) and considered a healthful counterbalance to a diet high in sweet-fatty (kapha or earth) components. Modern research has found it to support healthy prostate function, cardiovascular function, a healthy digestive environment and supportive to immune function.
Traditional Health Benefits of Pomegranate
Additional Information on this Herb
Polyphenols: anthocyanidins delphinidin, cyanidin, pelargonidin. Fatty acids: including punicic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid
Freeze Dried Arils
1.)Wang RF, Xie WD, Zhang Z, et al. Bioactive compounds from the seeds of Punica granatum (pomegranate). J Nat Prod 2004;67:2096-8. 2.)Li, J. Li G. Zhao Y. and Yu C. Composition of pomegranate peel polyphenols and its antioxidant activities. Scientia Agricultura Sinica 2009;42(11):4035-4041. 3.)Jurenka, J. S. Therapeutic applications of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.): a review. Altern.Med.Rev. 2008;13(2):128-144.
Not for use during pregnancy or lactation. If you have a medical condition or take pharmaceutical drugs please consult your doctor prior to use.
- This information in our Herbal Reference Guide is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.
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