Pomegranate: Tiny Seeds With Gigantic Health Benefits

Pomegranate is a type of tree and its fruit can be used for different purposes, even medicinal ones. It originates in Iran. It is mostly grown in Mediterranean countries, but also the U.S., Japan, China, Russia, India, and Afghanistan. Pomegranate contains antioxidants, which can help ward off bad cells, such as are cancerous ones and those that can cause the progression of arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Pomegranate juice is a popular form of this fruit. 

Pomegranate juice has been used for thousands of years dating back to 1500 BC when it was used to treat tapeworm and parasites. Ancient mythology and writings by the Greek, Buddhist, Hebrew, Islamic, and Christians all referenced this tree.   

One of the most notable effects of this fruit is that it helps fight anemia. Pomegranate helps supply iron to the blood. Here are 10 possible uses for pomegranate which may or may not be scientifically proven but have been claimed to be effective by users:

1. Lowering high blood pressure (systolic blood pressure).
2. Reducing hardening of the arteries by reducing the build-up of fatty deposits.
3. Preventing diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels.
4. Reducing muscle soreness post-exercise.
5. Removing dental plaque.
6. Helping blood vessel function which helps those with metabolic syndrome.
7. Alleviating the pain of rheumatoid arthritis.
8. Comfort for a sore throat.
9. Helping clear up vaginal infections.
10. Slowing the progression of prostate cancer.

The seeds are a tiny part of the fruit, and most people find that it takes work to pick them out and eat them, which is why most people prefer the juice form of this fruit. Regardless of whether one prefers the actual seeds or the juice, it's pretty clear that its anti-inflammatory power, its vitamin C and its protective nature towards the body all make the effort seem worth it.

From possible prevention of dental disorders to cancer prevention, this fruit is quite powerful. Many doctors suggest pomegranate after surgeries or long-term illnesses to help with blood health. It can be consumed by just eating the seeds, as a syrup, a paste, nectar or as concentrate. A word to the wise is that this fruit will stain your fingertips. As with any fruit juice, it is important to keep an eye out for added sugars. This sweet beverage should be as close to its natural state as possible. Your body appreciates natural remedies to help cellular health perform at its best. Pomegranates are a great option to boost your cellular and blood health. Taste preference is always a consideration, but it's worth trying as a natural approach versus prescriptions that can pile up, cost more and have side effects.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-proven-benefits-of-pomegranate 

https://www.healthline.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis-pomegranate

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4007340/