Incredible Health Benefits of Pomegranate

by Avadhesh Sharma SEO Analyst

The pomegranate belonging to the Lythraceae family is a fruit-bearing deciduous shrub which grows between 5 and 10 meters in height. It was initially found in the Mediterranean region, but was later introduced into Spanish America and California in the later part of the 16th century by the Spanish settlers.

It grows well in many regions of the world of which the Indian subcontinent is one of them.

Production and Export

Besides Chile, Peru, Egypt, Israel and Turkey India is also a large supplier of pomegranates to the European market where the fruit is unable to be cultivated because of its climate. Fresh Pomegranate Suppliers in India supplied the South Asian markets with the fruit whereas Chile catered to the American market in competition with the South African exporters.

Uses of the Pomegranate in the Culinary World

The fruit has multiple uses in the culinary world. Its juice which is either sour or sweet with most fruits having a moderate taste is primarily used as a juice. It was previously a popular drink in Europe and the Middle East is now introduced and distributed in America and Canada as a juice because of its health benefits. The thickened juice known as Grenadine Syrup is used in cocktail mixing.

Before the tomato was introduced to the Middle Eastern countries, pomegranate juice, molasses and vinegar were commonly used in Iranian main dishes in the form of a thick sauce made from pomegranate juice and ground walnuts.

Its seeds are used as a spice known as anar dana in Indian and Pakistani cuisine. The ground anar dana gives a deep and tangy flavouring to the dishes. It is also used in trail mixes, granola bars, as a topping and dressing for salads and desserts, yoghurt, ice cream, marinating of meat and in a variety other ways.

Health Benefits of Pomegranate

Unequalled by other foods, the pomegranate has broad range of health benefits specially in lowering of certain diseases. They can be found enlisted below.

1. They contain loads of important nutrients: The pomegranate accommodates hundreds of edible seeds known as arils which are rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, bioactive plant compounds and also some sugar.

2. Medicinal Properties: Two important and unique substances, namely Punicalagins which are potent antioxidants and Punicic Acid- a fatty acid contain many health benefits.

3. Anti-inflammatory Effect: Pomegranates have anti-inflammatory effects which help to fight certain diseases like cardiovascular and Alzheimer’s diseases, cancer, Type II diabetes and reduce obesity. It also helps men in fighting prostate cancer. Pomegranate is also known to inhibit breast cancer cells though more study is required in this area.

4. Lowers Blood Pressure: Consistent intake of pomegranate juice lowers blood pressure in as small a time as two weeks.

5. Helps Fight Arthritis and Joint Pain: Arthritis, a common problem in the West can be countered with pomegranates whose anti-inflammatory effects block enzymes known to damage human joints.

6. Fights Bacterial and Fungal Infections: Plant compounds in pomegranates help to combat various gum diseases and yeast infections.

7. Pomegranates Boost Memory: Scientific research shows that pomegranates can boost memory in the older adults and post surgery.

8. Improve Exercise Performance: The fruit rich in dietary nitrates revamp exercise performances by enhancing blood flow, delaying the onset of fatigue and increasing exercise efficiency

Where to Get Pomegranates?

Of all the healthy foods loaded with nutrients and strapping plant compounds, pomegranate is one of them. It is a much sought after fruit because of its multiple health benefits. So a number of Fresh Pomegranate Importers are importing the fruit from the world market to take care of the needs and demands of the local market.