• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • ABOUT
  • Recipes
    • LOW CARB
    • Paleo
    • WHOLE 30 Recipes
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
      • Salad
      • Sandwiches & Pizza
      • Quiches & Pies
    • Soups & Chili
    • Dinner
      • Poultry
      • Beef
      • Pork
      • Lamb
      • Fish & Seafood
    • Gluten Free Pasta
    • Healthy Spiralized Recipes
    • Vegetables & Salads
    • Appetizers & Side Dishes
    • Desserts
    • Smoothies & Drinks
  • LOW CARB
  • Chronic Fatigue
  • Resources
    • GF Living
    • Favorite Products
    • Reviews
    • Resources for Kids
    • Meal Plans
    • Celiac Disease
  • Wellness & Strength Training
    • Wellness
    • Strength Training
    • Health And Fitness Products We Use
  • Contact Us

Gluten Free Homestead

creating a healthier lifestyle

Signup for email updates here

Published November 5, 2016 | Last Updated October 12, 2022 By Dr. John Bianchi 15 Comments

Amazing Pomegranates: One Of The Healthiest Foods In The World

Pomegranates have been prized by numerous cultures throughout the ages and may be one of the healthiest foods in the world.

800px-girl_with_a_pomegranate_by_william_bouguereauWhen I was a child, I remember my mom bringing home an unusual fruit one day. It looked a little like an apple but not exactly. She said it was a Chinese apple. I didn’t know it at the time but that was the British term for pomegranates.

She was so excited to show it to me. “Wait until you see what’s inside,” she said, “You’re not going to believe what you see.”

As she started to slice it open, a ruby red juice immediately poured out. When she exposed the inside, I was amazed to see hundreds of tiny jewel-like seeds. To a seven-year-old, this was no ordinary apple.

She told me to try one of the seeds. Looking at them, I expected that they would have the taste of candy. She broke a couple seeds off the rind, and I tried them.

They didn’t taste like candy at all. They were juicy, but also a little bitter tasting. I was a little disappointed. We continued to break more seeds off and ended up making a complete mess of the pomegranate and everything else around.

That was the last time my mom bought a pomegranate. I guess she figured it was just too difficult to open, and the bitter taste didn’t justify all that work.

pomagranates

However, since that time, my perspective on pomegranates has completely changed. I’ve figured out how to open and deseed them easily, and I’ve come to appreciate their taste and goodness.

In this post, I’ll show you how valued the pomegranate has been, why it’s one of the healthiest fruits created for us, how to open it easily, and how you can really enjoy its taste.

November is national pomegranate month

Did you know this month is National Pomegranate Month? I’m not exactly sure who officially made the proclamation but according to the Farmer’s Almanac and Wikipedia, it is. So I guess that means it must be true. Tongue in cheek.

Nonetheless, regardless of who made the proclamation, I think it’s a fabulous idea. Pomegranates are certainly worthy of such a high honor. Not only are they a delicious and nutritious fruit, but they have also been a fruit that’s been venerated in cultures throughout the centuries.

When the ancients set apart a food, as important I think that should give us pause to take a closer look at it and see if they knew something important we don’t know or have forgotten. Let’s see what the ancients thought about pomegranates.

Pomegranates in ancient Egypt

In ancient Egypt, the pomegranate was considered a symbol of ambition and prosperity. There is also evidence that around 1500 BC the Egyptians used it to treat stomach worms and other infections.

Pomegranates in ancient Greece

The pomegranate was also a central feature in many ancient Greek mythologies. Hades was said to have tricked Persephone, adante_gabriel_rossetti_-_%22persephone%22 vegetation goddess, to remain in Hades by getting her to eat some pomegranate seeds. By eating the seeds, she was condemned to spend part of every year in Hades.

Her yearly decent into the underworld and return to the world above was associated with seasons and harvesting and planting. The pomegranate, which was central to that myth, eventually came to be seen as a symbol of life, regeneration, and marriage.

The fruit still plays a part in many Greek traditions.

Pomegranates in ancient Israel

The pomegranate is mentioned several times in the Bible. In Numbers 13:23, the spies sent by Moses to scout out the promised land brought back pomegranates as a sign of the fertility of the land.

In Deuteronomy 8:8, Moses says that a good land was one that contained pomegranates.

The high priest’s robe was embroidered with pomegranates around its hem (Ex 28:33-34). In 1 Kings 7:20-21, we are told that the capitals of the two pillars that stood in front of Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem were engraved with pomegranates.

In Song of Solomon 4:3, pomegranates are associated with beauty.

According to some rabbinic traditions, the fruit is also said to have 613 seeds, which corresponds to the 613 commandments of the Torah. It is also said to be a food eaten at Rosh Hashanah and is associated with blessings.

Pomegranates in other traditions

800px-botticelligranat_bild

Madonna of the Pomegranate by Sandro Botticelli, c. 1487

Pomegranates are often depicted in early Christian works of art. A Mosaic from a 4th-century church shows Jesus flanked by pomegranates.

They also show up in religious paintings by DaVinci and Botticelli.

In Persian mythology, Isfandiyar eats a pomegranate and becomes invincible. In The Histories, Herodotus mentions golden pomegranates adorning the spears of warriors in the Persian phalanx.

These warriors could be the Immortals. They were an elite infantry unit in ancient Persia who had spears with pomegranate-shaped counterweights at the butt. You might remember them from the movie 300.

Many other ancient cultures throughout the Middle-East and Asia used the pomegranate as a representation of fertility and prosperity.

There must have been something special for that fruit to be so highly honored in a vast number of ancient cultures.

Did the ancients know something about pomegranates that we’re only recently finding out about today?

Let’s take a look at some of the extraordinary health benefits of pomegranates.

Ancient medicinal uses of pomegranates

As I noted before, the ancient Egyptians used pomegranates as a cure for stomach worms and other infections.

In India, they were used in the Ayurvedic system of medicine for the treatment of diarrhea and dysentery.

Dioscorides, a Greek physician who practiced medicine in Rome during the reign of the emperor Nero and was also a surgeon with thediscordis Roman army, described his medical uses of pomegranates,

“All sorts of pommegranats are of a pleasant taste and good for ye stomach . . . The juice of the kernells prest out, being sod and mixed with Hony, are good for the ulcers that are in ye mouth and in ye Genitalls and in the seate, as also for the Pterygia in digitis and for the Nomae and ye excrescencies in ulcers, and for ye paines of ye eares, and for the griefs in ye nosthrills . . . The decoction of ye flowers is a collution of moist flagging gummes and of loose teeth . . . ye rinde having a binding faculty . . . but ye decoction of ye roots doth expell and kill the Latas tineas ventris.”

Dioscorides published a five-volume book on medical treatments and pharmacology which became widely used throughout Asia and Europe for many centuries.

For more on the Medieval Eastern Mediterranean medical uses of pomegranates, see here.

Let’s discover the scientific basis for what made pomegranates a much-desired healing food in the ancient world.

Two potent medicinal compounds in pomegranates

There are two compounds in pomegranates that appear to be responsible for its extraordinary medicinal qualities.

Punicalagins

Punicalagins are extremely potent antioxidants found in the juice and rind of the pomegranate. Antioxidants are extremely important for neutralizing cancer and disease-causing free radicals.

Interestingly, these antioxidants from the pomegranate are not absorbed intact into the bloodstream but are hydrolyzed to ellagic acid over several hours in the intestine. Intestinal flora, therefore, has some role in metabolizing punicalagins. This is another reason to make sure your gut flora is optimized. See here: How 24-Hour Probiotic Yogurt Can Help Improve Your Health.

The antioxidants found in pomegranates are so powerful that they have been found to have three times the antioxidant activity of red wine and green tea. See here.

Punicic acid

Punicic acid is the main fatty acid in the seed or aril of the pomegranate. It is a type of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) with powerful biological properties. Some of the health benefits associated with naturally occurring CLA may include a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and cancer.

There also have been studies showing that CLA may play a beneficial part in preventing heart disease.

Health benefits of pomegranates

pomegranates

1. Lowers inflammation

Many diseases (such as type 2 diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimers Disease, and metabolic syndrome) are thought to be driven by chronic inflammation.

Lowering inflammation should be a priority in your health plan.

Studies have shown that pomegranates have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect in the gastrointestinal system as well as in breast cancer and colon cancer cells.

2. Pomegranates may aid in the fight against prostate cancer

Results from studies in cells, animals, and humans clearly point to the benefit of pomegranate extract in slowing down prostate cancer cell growth.

Some studies have even shown that pomegranate extract can even cause prostate cancer cell death.

Pomegranate juice was also found to have a positive effect on improving prostate-specific antigen (PSA) progression in men following treatment for prostate cancer.

3. Pomegranates may help in breast cancer prevention

Some limited studies have been performed to show that pomegranate extract may be helpful in inhibiting the proliferation of breast cancer cells and inducing apoptosis (cell death). See here and here.

4. Pomegranates may help fight bacterial and fungal infections

As we saw previously in ancient times, pomegranates were used to fight a variety of infections.

Scientific studies have since shown the pomegranate’s efficacy in antimicrobial function. However, this seems to be limited to the pomegranate rind. See here, here and here.

5. Pomegranates may be useful in fighting heart disease

Today, more people in the United States die prematurely from heart disease than any other disease.

As I mentioned earlier, punicic acid (a type of CLA) may be helpful in preventing heart disease. One study has shown that punicic acid significantly lowered triglycerides and improved the triglyceride to HDL ratio in 51 people who had high cholesterol and triglycerides levels.

A smaller study which included 22 patients with type II diabetes and hyperlipidemia found that concentrated pomegranate juice significantly reduced total cholesterol levels.

The oxidation of LDL particles has been implicated in promoting atherosclerosis. Pomegranate juice may aid in limiting this process and thus help in the prevention of heart disease. See here and here.

6. Other health benefits of pomegranates

Pomegranate juice may also be helpful in lowering blood pressure, increasing memory function and increasing exercise performance, especially in aerobic sports.

The bottom line: Pomegranates have been prized by numerous cultures throughout the ages and may be one of the healthiest foods in the world.

Watch this video and see how to cut and seed your pomegranate

 

You can enjoy pomegranate seeds with these delicious recipes:

Autumn Kale Salad with Apples, Pomegranate, Pistachio and apples Recipe here.

Autumn Kale Salad with Apples, Pomegranate, Pistachios, and Goat Cheese
This wonderful autumn kale salad is made with massaged kale, apples, toasted pistachios, and goat cheese topped with pomegranate seeds.
Check out this recipe

gluten free, paleo, spinach, salad, pomegranate, seeds, goat cheese

Pomegranate Spinach Salad With Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Bid goodbye to the boring side salad with this bowl of crisp, baby spinach, juicy pear slices, sweet pomegranate seeds, and tangy goat cheese. Paired with a homemade, paleo apple cider vinaigrette, this salad is a healthy feast of fresh and seasonal ingredients.
Check out this recipe

Pomegranate And Berry Blast Green Smoothie (Weekly Workouts)
Five ingredients all add up to an incredibly healthy smoothie, and just wait until you taste how delicious it is too.
Check out this recipe

Enjoy some pomegranate seeds today, in a salad, blended in a juice, or even by the handful. Have a happy and healthy week!

Enjoy this post? Pin it!

amazing-pomegranates

 

  • About the Author
  • Latest Posts

About Dr. John Bianchi

John has a doctorate in podiatric medicine and is particularly interested in sports medicine and fitness. His articles focus on health and gluten free living. Check out John's Instagram @johnbianchi56
  • How I’m Using Creatine To Get Stronger - February 17, 2022
  • How to Set Up a Home Gym: A Look at Our Garage Gym - January 26, 2022
  • 65 Years Old And Getting Stronger: How We’re Doing It! - January 20, 2022
  • If You’re Over 40 You’re Probably Losing Strength. You Must Deal With It Now! - January 4, 2022
  • Get A Good Grip: How Your Hand Grip Strength Predicts Longevity - August 17, 2021
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Gmail

Hungry for more?

Sign up and I'll send you my eCookbook, Top 10 Recipes as a welcome gift

plus new articles and recipes delivered fresh to your inbox!

Your request has been accepted! Please check your inbox for a verification message.

Your data is collected, used, and protected in accordance with the privacy policy. Unsubscribe at any time.

Filed Under: Egg free, Gluten Free Living, Lunch, Paleo, Recipe, Salad, Vegetables & Salads, Vegetarian, Wellness

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jennifer DeFrates says

    November 6, 2016 at 5:05 pm

    I’ve never tried one before. I guess I was intimidated by them. But there video was very helpful. I just might pick some up.

    Reply
  2. Denise says

    November 6, 2016 at 5:06 pm

    Very cool post

    Reply
  3. Bethany @thekansascitydietitian.com says

    November 7, 2016 at 9:50 am

    I love pomegranates. I didn’t know November was pomegranate month. I seriously did a happy dance in the grocery store when I got my first one for the season.

    Reply
    • John says

      November 10, 2016 at 12:59 pm

      Hi, Bethany. LoL. Pomegranates are a great fruit, aren’t they.

      Reply
  4. Adree @ TheKeeleDeal says

    November 7, 2016 at 11:43 am

    Great information, I didn’t realize all of the benefits of pomegranates. I love Pomegranates but they are such a pain to cut. That video so helpful!

    Reply
    • John says

      November 10, 2016 at 12:58 pm

      Hello, Adree. Pomegranates are an amazing fruit. I’m glad the video helped.

      Reply
  5. Annabella I ZK Buzy Buzz says

    November 7, 2016 at 12:03 pm

    I’ve always loved pomegranates since I was a kid (yep, I do). My grandma used to send us a bunch of these. This post is loaded with great facts. Thanks for coming up with this!

    Reply
    • John says

      November 10, 2016 at 12:56 pm

      Hi, Annabella. Thanks for stopping by. I glad you enjoyed the post.

      Reply
  6. Katherine says

    November 7, 2016 at 12:50 pm

    I had no idea pomegranates had so many incredible health benefits! I’ll have to try out that salad recipe, too.

    Reply
  7. Jen says

    November 7, 2016 at 2:56 pm

    I LOVE pomegranates! I have ever since I was a kid (none of my friends knew what they were)

    Reply
  8. Mummy Times Two says

    November 8, 2016 at 7:04 am

    This is a really interesting article, I would never have known all of this without reading it, thank you x

    Reply
    • John says

      November 10, 2016 at 12:55 pm

      Thank you for your kind comments.

      Reply
  9. Elizabeth Doren says

    November 14, 2016 at 6:09 pm

    Super interesting post. Also Happy Pomegranate Month to you and yours!

    Reply
    • John says

      November 18, 2016 at 12:34 am

      Hello, Elizabeth. Thank you for stopping by. Happy Pomegranate Month to you and yours as well. LOL.

      Reply

Trackbacks

  1. 5 Healthiest Superfoods » Boost Your Immune System » OnlyVegan says:
    April 11, 2020 at 3:32 pm

    […] on Earth. They contain a range of beneficial plant compounds, putting pomegranates in a league of their own when it comes to the health benefits of this amazing […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Primary Sidebar

Hi! We’re Barbara & John. Whether you’re looking for delicious easy to follow gluten-free and low-carb recipes, strength training tips, strategies to beat chronic fatigue, or just because you want to feel good, you're in the right place. Read more here. 

...

"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."

-1 Corinthians 10:31

Buy Me a Coffee at ko-fi.com

Let’s be friends!

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
Bursting With Flavor

Get the Cookbook!

“I’ve enjoyed making a number of these recipes and love the beautiful, appetizing-looking pictures. And the fact that they’re low-carb is all the better! When I discover people who are looking for gluten-free or low-carb recipes—or who are just wanting to try something new—I love recommending Barbara’s recipes.”

—Barbara C.

Get the app!

Download GF Recipe Book PRO app

Trending

The 10 Most Important Strategies I Used To Beat Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Part 1

Why We Bought a Sleep EZ 100% Natural Latex Mattress [Review]

Free eBook!

Get this information-packed eBook as a subscriber freebie!

Your request has been accepted! Please check your inbox for a verification message.

Your data is collected, used, and protected in accordance with the privacy policy. Unsubscribe at any time.

Footer

Affiliates Disclaimer

The Gluten Free Homestead receives a small commission from the sales made through our affiliate links. However, we only promote affiliate products we use or support wholeheartedly. The commissions received through your purchases help maintain this site. Thank you for your support!

Medical Disclaimer

Nothing you read on this site should be construed as medical advice. All blog posts are solely our personal experiences and opinions, and should not be interpreted as an attempt to offer a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine. See more here.

Privacy Policy

This privacy policy sets out how Gluten Free Homestead uses and protects any information that you give while using www.glutenfreehomestead.com See more here.

Copyright © 2023 · Brunch Pro Theme On Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in