Pomegranate (Punica granatum)
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One pomegranate delivers approximately 40% of an adult's daily vitamin C requirement and is high in polyphenol compounds. These compounds are thought to reduce 'silent inflammation,' which is at the root of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
Although pomegranate juice has been commonly consumed for atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), evidence of its effectiveness is inconclusive. Pomegranate juice may have antioxidant properties, but its effects have not been widely studied; more evidence is needed. More research is needed for the use of pomegranate as an antifungal agent before a firm recommendation can be made.
Pomegranate has a long history of use as food and medicine in Asia and South America. In the United States, pomegranate is typically juiced or the seeds are used as food. Pomegranate may have medicinal use as an anthelmintic (expels worms) and antidiarrheal agent, although reports conflict. The seeds may have phytoestrogenic qualities and may be used in hormonally related conditions such as menopause.
synonyms
Granada, Grenade, Grenadier, Punica proto-punica, Punicaceae, Punica Granatum, Shi liu gen (Chinese), Shi liu gen pi (Chinese), Shi liu pi (Chinese).
evidence table
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Antifungal
(Grade: C)
An extract of pomegranate was shown to be as effective as a commonly used oral (by mouth) gel when used topically (applied on the skin) to treat candidiasis (yeast infection) associated with denture stomatitis (mouth sores). Additional study is needed to confirm pomegranate's antifungal effects and make a strong recommendation.
An extract of pomegranate was shown to be as effective as a commonly used oral (by mouth) gel when used topically (applied on the skin) to treat candidiasis (yeast infection) associated with denture stomatitis (mouth sores). Additional study is needed to confirm pomegranate's antifungal effects and make a strong recommendation.
Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
(Grade: C)
Preliminary study of pomegranate for atherosclerosis is mixed. Pomegranate juice may decrease serum angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity and lower blood pressure in elderly hypertensive (high blood pressure) patients. However, additional study is warranted to confirm these findings.
Preliminary study of pomegranate for atherosclerosis is mixed. Pomegranate juice may decrease serum angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity and lower blood pressure in elderly hypertensive (high blood pressure) patients. However, additional study is warranted to confirm these findings.
