The pomegranate fruit is the fruit of the deciduous shrub of the same name (Punica granatum). Originating from northern India and Iran, the bright red seeds of this fruit are famous all over the world as a healthy treat, especially during the holidays. Not only that, but the pomegranate also gives you a lot of health and beauty benefits. Here are nine of those benefits.

Pomegranate improves your memory

Pomegranate is filled with polyphenols, compounds which can improve memory. Many studies have even found that consuming pomegranate prevents deficits in memory.

Pomegranate encourages hair growth

Pomegranate is rich in punicalagins, which are extremely potent antioxidants that are able to strengthen hair follicles and improve blood circulation around the scalp. With these two health benefits combined, the punicalagins are able to stimulate hair growth.

Pomegranate combats heart disease

Another strong compound found in pomegranate is punicic acid. This powerful nutrient helps protect you against heart disease. One recent study found that drinking as little as 2 oz of pomegranate juice every day improves your cholesterol, lowers your blood pressure and clears your arteries of any plaque. All of these factors converge to lower your overall risk of heart disease.

Pomegranate rejuvenates your skin

Just one cup of pomegranate seeds (174 g) provides you with around 30 percent of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C. One of the great benefits of vitamin C is its ability to hydrate dry and dull skin. Because of the presence of this and other powerful antioxidants, consuming pomegranate juice repairs, rejuvenates and replenishes your skin.

Pomegranate prevents and fights against cancer

There is a lot of evidence that pomegranate is useful in the fight against cancer. The antioxidants, polyphenols and other anti-inflammatory compounds protect the body against oxidative stress. This means that your body has a lower risk of DNA mutations and the growth of cancer cells. Furthermore, there’s evidence to suggest that pomegranate can also prevent cancer from spreading. The current research shows that pomegranate is best suited for fighting against breast and prostate cancer.

Pomegranate fights acne

Inflammation plays a large role in the development of acne. Because the antioxidants in pomegranate are able to neutralize the free radicals that can cause inflammation, consuming pomegranate reduces your risk of inflammation. If you feel like you’re about to experience a breakout, consume some pomegranates to stop it.

Pomegranate improves bone health

A 2013 study found that pomegranate can be a great supplement for dealing with osteoporosis. Once again, the pomegranate’s antioxidants are responsible.

Pomegranate deals with arthritis

Because pomegranates improve bone health, it means they’re also capable of dealing with rheumatoid arthritis. Joint pain, one of the main symptoms of arthritis, is lessened due to the powerful anti-inflammatory properties of pomegranate. It decreases joint tenderness, swelling and pain and some studies even suggest that pomegranate can block the production of an enzyme that destroys cartilage.

Pomegranate is filled with fiber

Pomegranate is rich in fiber. Eating a lot of fiber slows down your digestion, making you feel full for longer. This means that the more pomegranate you eat, the less junk foods you’re likely to stuff into your stomach.

Pomegranates are some of the healthiest foods in the world. They are packed with powerful nutrients and compounds that can greatly impact both your health and beauty needs. If you’re looking to consume pomegranates, you can either eat the seeds and the arils, the red, juicy covering of the seed, or turn it into a juice you can drink up. You can even add it as a sweet ingredient to your salads and other recipes.

With how easy this superfood can be added to your diet, the pomegranate is definitely a fruit you shouldn’t miss out on.

Sources:

TasteOfHome.com

Hindawi.com

Healthline.com 1

ScienceDirect.com

Food.NDTV.com

EurekaSelect.com

Healthline.com 2