Ancient fruit finding favor as modern remedy
In Greek mythology, the pomegranate symbolized death and fertility; in ancient Chinese culture, it was a symbol of immortality. One of the earliest cultivated fruits, the pomegranate is also called a gift from God in the Bible and the Koran. The pomegranate tree’s fruits, seeds, bark and flowers have been used medicinally for thousands of years in its native Middle East, Asia and Latin America. Today, the pomegranate -- whose scientific name, Punica granatum, is from the Latin for “seeded apple” -- is attracting attention as a powerhouse of antioxidants.
Uses: Historically, parts of the pomegranate tree have been used to treat illnesses including intestinal parasites and respiratory infections. More recently, pomegranate juice has been touted as a protective agent against heart disease, stroke and cancer.
Dose: Usually, 8 to 16 ounces of juice daily.
Precautions: Pomegranate juice appears safe, though few human studies have investigated long-term or high-dose safety or its use in children.
Research: Studies have scrutinized pomegranate’s various health effects, but the bulk of these have been confined to the lab. In lab and animal experiments, the juice shows promise against skin, breast and prostate cancer; menopausal symptoms; brain damage in newborns; ulcers; HIV; and the herpes virus. Preliminary animal research published last month in the Journal of Urology suggests the juice may prove to be a treatment for erectile dysfunction. However, there have been few human clinical trials. In a clinical trial in Iran, the juice lowered cholesterol levels in 22 patients with diabetes. Two small clinical trials in Israel showed that daily consumption of pomegranate juice can reduce plaque buildup in arteries -- a condition that can lead to heart attack or stroke. More human trials are needed to confirm the fruit’s purported health-promoting powers.
Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. to show that their products are safe or effective. Ask healthcare providers for advice on selecting a brand.
-- Elena Conis
