Pomegranate

Pomegranates are a type of fruit that are claimed to be beneficial for various medical conditions. This fruit contains several medicinal components that may help to slow down the progression of atherosclerosis, as well as lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Although pomegranates are a fruit, they may still cause side effects (such as allergic reactions) in some people. Before taking pomegranates medicinally, make sure to talk to your healthcare provider.

 

What Is Pomegranate?

The pomegranate is an unusual fruit that has recently received much attention. It is claimed to be useful for preventing or treating a variety of different medical conditions. People usually eat the seeds or drink the juice, although pomegranate extracts and supplements are also available.
 
(Click Pomegranate Health Benefits for more information on the potential benefits of pomegranates.)
 

How Does Pomegranate Work?

Pomegranates contain a variety of medicinally active components. One of these components is polyphenol, which has antioxidant activity. In fact, pomegranate juice contains more polyphenols than red wine. As antioxidants, polyphenols have several beneficial effects in the body, including slowing down the progression of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). It is thought that polyphenols may also reduce the amount of cholesterol produced in the liver.
 
Pomegranates can also increase the production of nitric oxide in the blood vessels. Nitric oxide can help to lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels. Pomegranates may also work like ACE inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors), a group of prescription high blood pressure medications that help to relax the blood vessels.
 
Pomegranate seeds may contain several estrogen-like substances. However, it is not known exactly how these substances affect the body.
 

Is Pomegranate Effective?

Pomegranates are clearly not the "cure-all" that they are often claimed to be. However, very early research suggests that they may be effective for a number of different uses (see Does Pomegranate Work? for more information).
 

Pomegranate Dosing Information

It is difficult to recommend a pomegranate "dosage," as research is still in its early stages.
 
(Click Pomegranate Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Pomegranate

It does not seem likely that pomegranates would cause side effects. However, some side effects have been reported, such as:
 
  • Allergic reactions
  • Swelling of the mouth or throat.
     
(Click Pomegranate Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions With Pomegranate

Pomegranate can potentially interact with several medications (see Pomegranate Drug Interactions).
 

Pomegranate Safety

Normal consumption of pomegranates (though food) is probably safe for most people, although medicinal uses of pomegranates may cause serious problems. Some people are more likely than others to experience problems due to pomegranates. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking pomegranates medicinally if you have:
 
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Is Pomegranate Safe? for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take a Pomegranate Overdose?

It is not known what exactly to expect from an overdose of pomegranates (or if an overdose is even possible). If you think you may have consumed too much pomegranate, seek immediate medical attention.
 
(Click Pomegranate Overdose for more information.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;