Pomegranate is a nutrient-rich fruit with low calories and high fiber. Today, we unlock the surprising pomegranate secrets. Many chemicals are naturally produced by pomegranate and help to control heart diseases. Not only pomegranate seeds or juice are beneficial also the peel of this fruit has a lot of secrets which have a close relation with our health. We can use this peel in different ways. Letter, we will discuss how can we utilize the pomegranate peel for health purposes.
Nutrients in Pomegranate
The pomegranate has high levels of minerals, vitamins, and fibers. The macro-nutrients include carbohydrates, protein, and fats although the the fats are less in quantity. The amount of Micro-nutrients such as vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin B6, B9, and B5 are present in pomegranate. Other minerals which are potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and iron are also part of the nutrients in pomegranate.
Chemicals in Pomegranate
There are many health-friendly chemicals are produced by pomegranate. The list of these chemicals is below.
| Chemical | Type | Where Found |
| Punicalagins | Anti-oxidant | Peel and Juice |
| Punic Acid | Polysaturated fatty acid | Seeds |
| Ellagic Acid | Polyphenolic | Peel and juice |
| Anthocyanins | Pigments | Arils |
| Quercetin | Anti-oxidant | Whole fruit |
| Kaempferol | Anti-oxidant | Whole fruit |
| Gallic Acid | Phenolic | Peel and Juice |
| Beta-sitosterol | Plant sterol | Seeds |
| Tannins | Polyphenolic | Peel and Juice |
Pomegranate Benefits
Heart Health
The pomegranate contains large amounts of polyphenolic compounds such as tannins, and ellagic acid, which regulate chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. The researchers suggest pomegranate juice has significant benefits in improving heart conditions like blood pressure, coronary artery, and atherosclerosis. Besides that, it can control the cholesterol level in your body by decreasing the LDH concentration and increasing the HDL concentration.
The polyphenolic compounds of pomegranate not only regulate blood pressure but also reduce chest pain as well as also decrease plaque buildup in your arteries. The patience having heart-related disorders must include pomegranate in their diet to reduce the rate of a heart attack.
Read also: New Year New You: Mediterranean Diet Recipes for January Comfort
Anti-Cancer Properties
The pomegranate has anti-oxidant compounds, the anti-oxidants can destroy the free radicals and prevent cell damage. The pomegranate contains a large amount of quercetin which prevents oxidative stress as well as apoptosis inhibition which promotes cancer development. Quercitin can inhibit metastasis which can spread cancer to other body parts. Researchers suggest juice intake to prevent cancer although the clinical study is limited ongoing research uncovers the potential effects of quercetin.
Along with Quercitin other compounds including gallic acid, ellagic acid, and anthocyanins can protect against cancer. Researchers from the University of California at Los Angeles found that drinking pomegranate juice can suppress the growth of prostate cancer. Other studies also suggest that the peel of pomegranate has anti-oxidant properties and can be used for medicinal purposes.
Urinary Health
The pomegranate has dietary fibers rich in arils, so it can regulate digestive health. Along with dietary fibers it contains gallic acid which promotes gut health by increasing the beneficial gut bacteria. Studies reveal that pomegranate extract regulates the calcium, phosphate, and oxalate concentrations and reduces the chances of kidney stones.
Glowing Skin
The pomegranate has anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties which glow up your skin. It contains essential fatty acids like punicic acid which helps to moisturize the skin. The Punicalagins, vitamin C, and ellagic acids can destroy the free radicals and prevent premature anti-aging, reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Vitamin C can boost collagen production. Ellagic acid helps to brighten the skin tone by inhibiting melanin production and also diminishes the dark spots on the face.
How to Use Pomegranate?
For Medicinal Purpose
Tea: Dry the peel of pomegranate, and grind to make a powder. Make a tea with powder and drink it for digestive health purposes.
Supplements: Take the pomegranate extract capsule or powder for health benefits.
Juice: Make the juice of pomegranate and use it for heart diseases.
Read also: Discover the Best Herbal Teas for Stress Relief and Relaxation
For Skin Care
Hydrating mask: Mix the pomegranate juice with aloe vera and apply for 15 minutes on your face for hydrated and nourished skin.
For Dark Spots: Dry the peel of pomegranate, grind it, and make a paste of it with rose water. Apply to dark spots or acne spots for 10 to 15 minutes.
Reduce Wrinkles or Anti-aging: Apply the seed oil to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and premature aging. The pomegranate seed oil treats the dryness as well.
Pomegranate is an incredibly nutrient-rich fruit that offers a wide range of health benefits, both from its flesh and peel. With its high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and beneficial compounds, pomegranate has proven to support heart health, aid in cancer prevention, promote urinary health and improve skin conditions. The peel, often overlooked, holds many medicinal properties that can be utilized for various health purposes, such as improving digestion, supporting kidney health, and even enhancing skin appearance by combating aging and dark spots.
Incorporating pomegranate into your diet and skincare routine—whether through juice, tea, supplements, or topical treatments—can significantly contribute to overall well-being. From its ability to regulate blood pressure to its potential in anti-cancer treatments, the various compounds in pomegranate, such as quercetin, ellagic acid, and punicalagin, work synergistically to offer a holistic approach to health and beauty.
As ongoing research continues to uncover more of its benefits, pomegranate is a powerful addition to a balanced diet and skincare regimen, offering natural, nutrient-dense solutions for promoting longevity and health.
