Pomegranate Seeds Health Benefits

Pomegranates, whose botanical name is Punica granatum, are round shaped fruits with red, juicy seeds. These fruits that are native to South east Asia are popular across the globe for their nutritional value. This plant is cultivated in Afghanistan, Armenia, tropical Africa, Malaysia, and Turkey.

Though normally red in color, the yellow variety of this fruit is also available in a few countries. There are approximately 750 species of the pomegranate which are used for eating and extracting juice. The edible part or the seed casings are simply eaten or consumed in the form of syrup or juice.

These fleshy seed casings, or simply seeds (which are dark red or pale yellow in color) are arranged in the fruit and are separated by thin, white or yellowish colored membranes. The juice is extracted from the fleshy part of the seeds.

The rind and the aril (which is the seed casing) of the fruit are also consumed due to their numerous medicinal properties. But they are bitter to taste as compared to the sweet, tart taste of the seeds.

Also known as the 'super fruit', they are loaded with all the essential nutrients required for the body. These fruits are sometimes referred to as nature's pharmacy, owing to its therapeutic uses. You can make many nourishing recipes and benefits can be reaped from eating this nutritious fruit.

There are various health benefits, one of them being a rich source of antioxidants, which helps fight against free radicals in the body. They also help repair damaged cells and take care of the wear and tear of the body. Given below are few other health benefits of consuming the fruit in any form, be it seeds, extract or juice.

One of the essential benefits of pomegranate seeds is that this fruit is a powerhouse of various nutrients like calcium, potassium, phosphorus, vitamins C, B complex and K, folic acid, iron, protein, etc. It is also a rich source of dietary fibers, zinc, magnesium and carbohydrates.

A major benefit is that it strengthens the immune system and also protects the body from numerous infections and diseases.

The juice extracted from the seeds also has many health benefits. A positive effect of drinking this fruit juice is that it reduces the symptoms of diarrhea and eases the pain caused due to this condition. But the juice must be consumed only in limit as it may lead to constipation.

Another well-known health benefit of pomegranate juice is that it keeps a check on blood pressure. It ensures the smooth functioning of heart and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It also prevents the formation of blood clots and hardening of arteries. Regular intake will keep heart attacks and strokes at bay.

Massaging the teeth and gums with pomegranate seed oil is beneficial in preventing teeth and gum diseases like dental caries, plaque and gingivitis. Since pomegranate is also rich in vitamin C, it prevents the symptoms and occurrence of scurvy like bleeding gums and loose teeth.

You can now say goodbye to bad breath and other dental problems. This is because, including a cup of pomegranate juice in your diet improves oral hygiene and keeps your teeth free from dental plaque, tartar, toothache, etc.

The seeds help in reducing the levels of bad cholesterol in the body and trigger the production of good cholesterol. This again helps in maintaining the health of the cardiovascular system and keeps disorders like heart attacks, hypertension and strokes at bay.

One of the main benefits for women is that this healthy fruit maintains the level of estrogen in the body. It helps in fighting against the signs of PMS and onset of menopause like irritability, mood swings, hot flashes, etc.

There are also many positive effects on the skin (seen with regular consumption), since this fruit has anti-aging properties and reverses the signs of aging like wrinkles, saggy and dull skin. Applying the juice directly to the skin or mixing it with a moisturizer will give the skin a fresh and healthy glow.

Pomegranate seeds are also effective in preventing cancer. Being rich sources of phytochemicals, also referred to as polyphenols (anthocyanins, quercetin and tannins), these seeds curb the unhealthy growth and development of certain cells, which can be cancerous in nature, in the body.

These are a few nutrition facts about this wonder fruit. Some individuals may show allergic reactions to pomegranate or its extracts, but this is rare in occurrence. If you observe any symptoms like swollen lips, itchy skin and appearance of rashes, consult a doctor. Eat nutritious to stay healthy!