Pomegranate is a thick skinned super seedy fruit, with a brilliant red

hue which is now touted as a wonder fruit by scientific researchers.

The name pomegranate derives from the French word pomegranate
or seeded apple. They are believed to have originated in Iran and
brought to Egypt in 1600 BC, where it was not only revered as an
important food source but was also widely used for its medicinal
value. It was held in high esteem even during those times, as it is
evident by their depiction in Egypt1ian paintings and tombs. Inspired
by the abundance of jewel toned seeds within the bright red rind,
pomegranate is considered to be a symbol of fertility and prosperity in
some cultures.

people might find it a bit cumbersome to deal with the little seeds,
which is why, extracting its juice is the best way to utilize the benefits
of pomegranate juice. Drinking it allows for a quick and easy
assimilation of all the nutrients found in the bloodstream by the body.
In comparison to other fruits, pomegranates contain the maximum
amount of anti-oxidants. It contains approximately 3 times more
antioxidants than green tea and oranges.
A single glass of pomegranate juice can provide you with 40 % of the
daily requirement of folic acid and vitamins A, C, and E. Freshly
squeezed pomegranate juice, being completely unprocessed,
triumphs over packaged juice any day, as it retains the maximum
number of vitamins. Make sure that the juice is unsweetened as

sugar being inflammatory can counteract some of the health benefits

of this fruit.

Nutritional Value of Pomegranate:

Pomegranate is a great source of ellagic acid, and antioxidant and
punicic acid, an omega 5 polyunsaturated fatty acid which is highly
beneficial for cell regeneration and proliferation. The juice of this fruit
is an exceptional source of vitamin A, C and E and minerals such as
calcium, phosphorous, potassium, iron, folic acid, niacin, thiamin,
folates and riboflavin.

Health Benefits of Pomegranate Juice:

Pomegranate has been used for medicinal purposes in the middle
and Far East regions for over thousands of years. It was used as a
tonic to heal ailments like ulcers and diarrhea. The juice of
pomegranate contains antioxidants like anthocyanin and ellagic acid,
compounds like gallic acids, and flavonoids like quercetin which offer
protection from diabetes, heart diseases, osteoarthritis and several
kinds of cancer.
1. Heart Benefits:

Pomegranate juice can have a great impact on health, particularly on

the health of the heart, by keeping the arteries flexible and
decreasing the inflammation in the lining of the blood vessels. It is
known to reduce atherosclerosis, which is one of the leading causes
of heart disease. It lowers the risk of blockage in the arteries which
can cause a restriction in the flow of blood to the heart and brain. In

other words it has an anti-atherogenic effect on the heart. It lowers

the amount of LDL or bad cholesterol that is retained in the body and
increases the amount of good cholesterol or HDL.
2. Maintains Blood Sugar Levels:

Although pomegranate juice contains fructose, it does not elevate the

blood sugar levels as other fruit juices do. Studies have shown that
there was no significant increase in the blood sugar level of diabetic
patients who drank this juice daily for a period of 2 weeks.
3. Maintains Blood Pressure:

Pomegranates are also known to reduce high blood pressure. The

juice reduces lesions and the inflammation of blood vessels in heart
patients. It is a natural aspirin, which keeps the blood from
coagulating and forming blood clots. It even acts as a blood thinner
allowing for an unrestricted flow of blood through the body.
4. Protection From Cancer:

Pomegranate juice eliminates free radicals from the body and inhibits
the growth and development of cancer and other diseases. Its high
contents of anti- oxidants stimulate the white blood cells to neutralize
toxins in the body thereby promoting a strong and healthy immune
system. Pomegranate is believed to induce apoptosis, a process
where the cells destroy themselves. Daily intake of a glass of
pomegranate juice can slow down the growth of cancerous cells in
prostate cancer. Moreover it appears to block aromatase, an enzyme
that converts androgen to estrogen, a hormone which plays a crucial
role in the development of breast cancer.

5. Soothes the Stomach:

Pomegranate juice is used in the treatment of diarrhoea and

dysentery as it plays a vital role in the secretion of enzymes which
aids proper digestion. Mixing 1 teaspoon of honey in a glass of
pomegranate juice is sure to cure indigestion problems.
6. Boosts Immunity:

Pomegranate juice has strong anti-bacterial and anti-microbial

properties which help fight viruses and bacteria and boost our
immunity system. It significantly reduces microbes that are found in
the mouth commonly responsible for cavities and staph infections. Its
anti-microbial properties make it an inhibitor of HIV transmission. Out
of all the fruits, pomegranate has the highest potential to inhibit the
transmission of HIV.
7. Prevents Anaemia:

Anaemia is a condition caused by the deficiency of red blood cells in

the body. Since pomegranate juice contains ample amount of iron it
helps in surmounting the red blood cell deficiency in the body. Mixing
some candied sugar in pomegranate juice and introducing a couple of
drops in the nostrils is a quick fix to control nose bleeds. It is an
excellent remedy for red or sore eyes and falling eye lashes.
8. Improves Digestion:

Pomegranate juice aids in the smooth functioning of the stomach,

heart and liver. This juice induces hunger and can even control thirst.
Therefore it is a great choice of drink during summers. It also soothes
urinary tract infection and eases the flow of urine. The high amount of

dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble in pomegranate juice helps to

improve digestion and regulate bowel movement. Since it has no
saturated fats or cholesterol, it is highly recommended for those
aiming to lose weight.