Pomegranate
Background
- Pomegranate is a small, fruit-bearing tree native to Iran and northern India and cultivated around the world.
- Ancient writings described pomegranate as a sacred fruit that provided fertility, abundance, and luck.
- Preparations from pomegranate including the juice or extract have been promoted for prevention or treatment of many conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol levels, cancer, and diabetes.
- We don’t have a lot of strong scientific evidence on the effects of pomegranate on people’s health.
Health Benefits
- The pomegranate fruit contains substances with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. However, the limited research that’s been completed so far has not shown benefits of pomegranate in preventing or treating heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, cancer, diabetes, or other conditions.
Safety information
- Pomegranate juice is believed to be safe. Pomegranate extract may also be safe. Pomegranate root, stem, and peel may not be safe when consumed in large amounts because they contain substances that can have harmful effects.
- Pomegranate usually doesn’t have side effects, but digestive tract symptoms, especially diarrhea, may occur in a small number of people. Allergic reactions to pomegranate have been reported.
- Little is known about whether it’s safe to use pomegranate extract during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Drinking pomegranate juice at these times may be safe.
Disclaimer
- Talk to your health care providers about any complementary health approaches before you use. It may be contraindicated with any medications you are currently taking.