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.
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.
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