The use of pomegranates dates back to biblical times, when the Babylonians regarded them as mediums for resurrection, and the Persians believed their seeds instilled invincibility on the battlefield. All aspects of the fruit from its fleshy leaves to its thick rind are rife with rich, bioactive compounds that make it highly nutritious. Past clinical studies have concluded the fruit to be effective in warding off diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and infections of the gum, skin, and liver. Considered a functional food because of these healing properties, the pomegranate has rapidly become a predominant superfood in the realm of health and wellness.
With such widespread circulation, the pomegranate has become widely available in both juice and capsule form. Its physiological makeup deems it an excellent antibiotic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, antibacterial, and anti-diabetic agent with a broad range of phytochemicals. To date, a tremendous amount of research has gone into the study of the pomegranate, and there is great interest in its functionality. At least 770 scientific papers exist on the fruit, according to Science Direct, which is a compendium of peer reviewed journals and articles by leading scientists. From this research scientists strive to assess the overall value of the fruit by testing its extracts on animals and humans. So far, the extract has shown proven reduction in cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids, as well as increased HDL cholesterol, or “good” cholesterol, and antioxidant activity.
In the realm of skincare, pomegranate peel and seed oil have been especially beneficial in regenerating different layers of the skin, like the dermis, a deeper layer of skin, and the epidermis, the layer closest to the skin’s surface. Further, pomegranate extract contains chemo-preventive properties against UVA and UVB damage from the sun, and inhibits UV-induced pigmentation and discoloration when taken orally, because of its whitening effect on the skin. Overall, very effective in ameliorating skin damage from the sun!
Right now, pomegranates are in season, best to look for organic grown and from local farmers. My suggestion is, if you can get the most out of your health from a fruit that offers more nutritional punch than the average apple or orange, buy a bundle!
References:
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1541-4337.2010.00131.x/full
