The pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a fruit-bearing deciduous shrub which belongs to the Lythraceae family and Punicoideae sub-family respectively. Its name is derived from medieval Latin pōmum "apple" and grānātum "seeded". Pomegranates are used in baking, cooking, smoothies, juices, meal garnishes as well as alcoholic beverages involving cocktails and wine. However, this unique fruit has a great potential to support many health aspects including the immune system and brain's health.
Pomegranate seeds
Within a pomegranate hundreds of arils can be found which are the seed pods inside the fruit separated by cream-coloured membranes. These arils are made up of juicy, red fruit which encapsulates edible seeds. An interesting fact is that a single pomegranate can be composed of more than 600 seeds. Arils or seed pods are what we commonly refer to as “pomegranate seeds” and they are usually eaten raw or used for pomegranate juice. Moreover, seeds are used to produce pomegranate seed oil which shows multiple health benefits, have a low number of calories but are highly abundant in dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals.
Full of antioxidants
Pomegranate fruits are full of antioxidants as well as polyphenolic compounds which provide protection. Punicalagins, anthocyanins and hydrolysable tannins are the main bioactive compounds found within pomegranates. These compounds aid in the protection of the body from free radical damage.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Inflammation is a normal bodily response to infections as well as injury. Yet, chronic inflammation can be an issue and contribute to multiple chronic conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Pomegranate consumption prevents chronic inflammation related to greater risk of chronic conditions. The anti-inflammatory properties are highly related to compounds called punicalagins which contains antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Human studies showed that pomegranate juice leads to reduction of inflammatory markers in the body.
Anti-cancer properties
Studies have shown that substances found in the pomegranate fruit help with the destruction of cancer cells and slow down the spread in the organism. The anti-tumour effects include the lung, breast, prostate, skin and colon cancer respectively. Moreover, research conducted on animals showed that pomegranate contributes to slowing down the process of growth in early stages of liver cancer. With regards to an older test-study pomegranates slow the expansion and even lead to death of prostate cancer. It was shown that ingestion of pomegranate juice by men prolonged the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) doubling the time period therefore decreasing the risk of death from prostate cancer.
Heart support
Evidence shows that fruits full in polyphenolic compounds such as pomegranate can positively contribute to heart conditions. Studies showed that pomegranate effectively decreases oxidative stress and inflammation in the arteries, decrease blood pressure and help with atherosclerosis which refers to a build-up of plaque within arteries which can lead to strokes and heart attacks. With regards to one study conducted on population suffering from heart diseases individuals were provided with one cup (220 ml) of pomegranate juice for five days. The results showed a significant reduction of the frequency and severity of chest pain as well as decrease of biomarkers suggestive of a protective effect on the heart.
Brain
Pomegranates contain a compound called ellagitannins that act as antioxidants and lead to reduction of inflammatory processes in the body. Studies found that ellagitannins protect the brain from Alzheimer’s disease as well as Parkinson’s disease by reduction of oxidative damage and therefore increasing the survival of brain cells. On top of that ellagitannins aid production of a compound named urolithin A which showed to be able to reduce inflammation within the brain and delay the onset of cognitive disease.
Pomegranate peel
Acne, pimples and rashes
Pomegranate peel has anti-bacterial, antiviral as well as anti-inflammatory properties therefore it is very effective in the treatment of various skin problems. It is also suggested that pomegranate peels can get rid of dead skin cells from the face especially when used in a form of a face pack or facial scrub.
Detox
Pomegranate peel contains a high level of antioxidants – it is useful in detoxification of the body. With regards to animal studies conducted on mice, it was discovered that the aqueous extract from pomegranate peel enhances the detoxification process.
Signs of aging
Pomegranate peel prevents collagen breakdown while promoting cell growth hence delaying the signs of aging and wrinkle formation. Sun exposure, together with pollution, can speed up the process of premature aging. Studies show that the peel extract, mixed with seed oil, contributes to procollagen synthesis and enhancement of skin cell growth.
Reduction in cancer risk
The pomegranate peel is filled with antioxidants and flavonoids which show huge effectiveness against free radicals therefore protecting healthy cells. Moreover, pomegranates showed great potential in prevention of prostate, breast, lung and colon cancer and to greatly affect liver cells due to liver-protecting properties as well as significant antioxidant content.
Skin benefits
Pomegranate peel helps with protection of epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) and aids with skin regeneration within epidermis and dermis; increasing circulation and healing the skin, aiding tissue repair as well as wound healing. Additionally, pomegranate contains sun protective compounds which protect the skin from free radical damage, aids skin cancer prevention, relieve sunburn and signs of sun damage. Pomegranates prevent from hyperpigmentation together with age spots, by boosting collagen and elastin production they also contribute to smooth, firm skin.
Pomegranate peel promotes hydration and protection of the skin from environmental toxins as well as it restores the pH balance. It also has a compound called ellagic acid which promotes natural moisturizing of the skin cells.
Pomegranate leaves
The leaves of the pomegranate plant are not of a significant size but contain several medicinal properties. First, they are found useful in the treatment of insomnia (difficulty in sleeping). The leaves are full of anti-inflammatory properties and act as an immunity booster, also helping with treatment of disorders affecting immunity. Moreover, they contain Vitamin C which also helps with immunity improvement. Individuals suffering from indigestion or stomach-ache are advised to consume pomegranate due to the high amount of nutrients which help with stomach problems. Fibre found within pomegranate leaves is helpful with digestion also supressing the feeling of hunger hence act as a snacking prevention.
Additionally, pomegranate leaves are suggested for people suffering from eczema (chronic itchiness of the skin). It is advised to convert leaves into a paste and use it on affected skin areas to alleviate eczema symptoms. The paste is also recommended for skin problems including pimples and acne. Moreover, an effective home remedy can be made from pomegranate leaves providing relief during a cold and cough.
Risks and interactions
One of the adverse reactions include allergies which manifest as itchiness and difficulty breathing. Moreover, excessive intake of pomegranate can lead to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Additionally, hypotension (low blood pressure) was also reported thus could have interactions with certain medications. Thus, when in doubt, it is better to seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Renald Blundell is a biochemist and biotechnologist with a special interest in Natural and Alternative Medicine. He is a professor at the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta
Andrea Weronika Gieleta is a registered nurse and is currently a medical student at the University of Malta
Photo: AI-generated images created by Prof. Blundell