The remains of the pomegranate tree have been found in Egyptian tombs that are over 4000 years old. Israelites appreciated this fruit, too. Greeks regarded pomegranates as the symbol of love and fertility. The pomegranate tree was dedicated to Aphrodite since its fruit was alleged to be an aphrodisiac.
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The great Greek physician, pharmacologist, botanist, and author Pedanius Dioscorides, in the 1st century A.D., recommended the root of the pomegranate tree to “expel wide worms out of the belly.” Indeed, he was talking about taeniae. However, this plant was not used again with these goals until 1800 years after Dioscorides.
The pomegranate tree is a beautiful tree that has spread worldwide. Phoenicians brought it from western Asia to the Mediterranean area, and Romans, first, then Arabs, spread it all over southern European countries. Spaniards introduced it to America, where it spread all over the continent.
Pomegranate Tree Scientific Facts
- French: Granadier.
- Spanish:L Granado.
- Environment: Native to Persia and cultivated in Mediterranean countries and America, from California to Argentina and Chile. Some trees grow wild whenever birds defecate seeds after eating the fruits.
- Description: This tree of the Punicaceae family grows up to 4 m high. Its flowers are beautiful and unique, bright red, with an opened calyx. The fruit is a pomegranate.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The tree bark (especially its root), the flowers, and the fruits (pomegranate).
Healing Properties and Warning
The root bark and the lesser proportion of the trunk and branches bark contain several alkaloids, the most important being pelletierine. It also contains tannin, glycosides with astringent properties, and bromide. Its principal property is vermifuge: it helps to expel parasitic worms in the human intestine and is especially effective for taeniae.
The bark of the pomegranate tree, and especially that of its root, owes its properties to the alkaloids it contains. However, when these active components are administered isolated, they have toxic effects on the body, similar to those caused by nicotine or curare: muscular shivers and paralysis. These effects may also occur on the worms, allowing their expulsion through the anus.
However, when mixed with tannin and the other substances that form pomegranate tree bark, these alkaloids are well tolerated and practically lack any toxic effect on our bodies. The same happens with many other plants; therefore, it is better to administer the whole plant and not only extracts of the most active substances whenever possible. Plants’ healing action is due to the wise combination of their components, not only to isolated active components.
The fruit rind and inner walls also have vermifuge properties, though they are milder than the root or trunk bark. Sometimes, a person who eats a pomegranate expels an intestinal worm days later without the intention of doing so.
The FLOWERS of the tree and the fruit rind have astringent and mildly diuretic properties. They are recommended for:
- Diarrhea, gastroenteritis, and colitis were taken as an infusion.
- Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and the tissues fixing teeth to the jawbone (periodontitis or periodontist). The infusion is applied in mouth rinsings and can help improve loose teeth.
- Pharyngitis and tonsilitis are applied in gargles.
- Leukorrhea (white vaginal flow), applied in vaginal irrigations.
WARNING! The root bark of the pomegranate tree must never be administered to weak or nervous people, children on a milk diet, and pregnant women. Never exceed the recommended doses.
How to use The Pomegranate Tree
- Cold extract 60-90 g of root-dried bark in half a liter of water. Steep for 24 hours. Then boil over low heat until the liquid reduces by half. Drink for two or three days in the morning on an empty stomach. It can be sweetened with honey or flavored with peppermint essence. For children, put only 20-30 g of bark. A laxative infusion should be drunk a couple of hours after each intake.
- Infusion of flowers, with 20-30 g per liter of water. A pomegranate rind can be added per liter. Take a spoonful every hour until diarrhea stops.
- Mouth rinses and gargles, with the infusion of flowers with bark used internally.
- Vaginal cleansing or irrigations with the infusion mentioned above.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the specific antioxidants in the fruit of the pomegranate tree, and how do they work?
Pomegranates boast a unique profile of antioxidants:
Punicalagins: Potent antioxidants primarily in the peel and juice.
Ellagitannins: Also found in the peel and the arils (seeds). Contribute to gut health, too.
Anthocyanins: These are responsible for the red color found in the juice.
Antioxidants fight off free radicals, which cause cell damage and lead to chronic diseases. Pomegranate antioxidants may specifically lower inflammation and support cardiovascular health.
Can the fruit of the pomegranate tree help with specific cardiovascular health issues?
Research suggests pomegranates may be beneficial for:
High blood pressure: Some studies show pomegranate juice may modestly lower blood pressure.
Atherosclerosis: May help slow the thickening of arteries.
Cholesterol: Studies are mixed, but some suggest pomegranate might reduce harmful LDL cholesterol.
Important Note: Don’t replace prescribed medications with pomegranates. Please consult your doctor about its role in your cardiovascular care.
Does pomegranate have anti-inflammatory effects?
Yes. The potent antioxidants in pomegranates have anti-inflammatory properties. This may benefit conditions like:
Arthritis: Limited studies show potential in reducing joint pain and inflammation.
Gut Health: Ellagitannins promote healthy gut bacteria and may alleviate certain inflammatory bowel conditions.
Are there potential cancer-preventive benefits from the fruit of the pomegranate tree?
Laboratory and early cell studies show pomegranate extracts may inhibit the growth of some cancer cells (prostate, breast, colon).
Crucial Note: This does NOT mean pomegranates cure or treat cancer. More human research is essential.
Can pomegranate aid in athletic performance or recovery?
Limited but Intriguing Evidence
May Reduce Soreness: Pomegranate’s antioxidants might aid in muscle recovery.
Energy Potential: Some small studies suggest a benefit to endurance activities.
Does pomegranate interact with medications?
Yes, Possibly. Pomegranate can interfere with how your body processes medications, particularly blood pressure and statin.
It is crucial to discuss your medication use with your doctor before consuming pomegranate in significant amounts.
Can pomegranates help with diabetes?
Historically, some cultures used pomegranates for blood sugar control. However:
May Have Modest Effect: Some studies suggest it might have a mild effect in lowering blood sugar levels.
Not a Replacement: Never substitute pomegranates for prescribed diabetes medications or dietary advice.
Are there benefits to using pomegranate peel extract?
The peel has the highest concentration of punicalagins.
Potential Uses:
Supplements: Some exist for their antioxidant effects.
Topical: Limited research suggests it might benefit wound healing and skin health.
Caution: More research is needed, and DIY extracts can be unsafe. Don’t consume the peel directly.
What part of the pomegranate is the most beneficial?
All Parts Have Value:
Juice: High in anthocyanins.
Arils (seeds): Good fiber source, containing ellagitannins.
Peel: Highest punicalagin content.
How much pomegranate is safe and recommended?
Dosage Varies: No single recommended dose exists. Most studies looked at ½ – 1 cup of juice per day.
Moderation is Key: Pomegranates are a healthy addition to the diet, but remember they contain sugar.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 523, 524. Print.
- Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-proven-benefits-of-pomegranate
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-pomegranates
Last update on 2024-04-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
