Pomegranate is a fruit that has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. It is a rich source of antioxidants and contains several health-promoting compounds.

Some of these compounds have been identified as having preventive properties against various diseases.

Pomegranate Protects Against Cancer

Pomegranate contains compounds called ellagitannins. These compounds break down into ellagic acid in the body. Ellagic acid has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.

Ellagic acid has been found to neutralize cancer-causing agents and prevent the activation of cancer-causing genes. Cancer researchers have found that ellagitannins have anti-tumor properties against prostate, breast, colon, and lung cancer cells.

Pomegranate Protects Against Heart Disease

Pomegranate juice has been shown to protect against atherosclerosis, which is the hardening and narrowing of arteries caused by the buildup of plaque.

A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that daily consumption of pomegranate juice for three months improved blood flow to the heart and reduced plaque buildup. The study also showed that the juice reduced oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to the development of atherosclerosis.

Pomegranate Protects Against Arthritis

A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that pomegranate extract was effective in reducing inflammation in osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a condition that causes joint pain and stiffness due to the wear and tear of cartilage.

The study showed that pomegranate extract reduced inflammation in the joints and increased cartilage growth.

Pomegranate Protects Against Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is a common condition among men. A study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research found that pomegranate juice improved erectile function in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction.

The study showed that the juice improved blood flow to the penis, which is necessary for achieving and maintaining an erection.

Pomegranate Protects Against Diabetes

Pomegranate contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-diabetic properties. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that pomegranate juice reduced insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes.

The study showed that the juice improved insulin sensitivity, which is important for controlling blood sugar levels.

Pomegranate Protects Against Alzheimer’s Disease

Pomegranate contains compounds that have been shown to have neuroprotective properties. A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that pomegranate extract improved cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

The study showed that the extract reduced the formation of beta-amyloid plaques, which are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.

Pomegranate Protects Against Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease is a condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that pomegranate extract reduced inflammation in the intestinal wall of rats with colitis.

The study showed that the extract reduced the levels of inflammatory markers in the colon.

Pomegranate Protects Against Skin Damage

Pomegranate contains compounds that have been shown to protect against UV radiation damage. UV radiation is a major cause of skin damage, which can lead to premature aging and skin cancer.

A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that pomegranate extract protected human skin cells from UV radiation damage.

Pomegranate Protects Against Dental Plaque

Pomegranate contains compounds that have been shown to inhibit the growth of dental plaque bacteria. Dental plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth and can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.

A study published in the Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice found that pomegranate extract reduced the growth of dental plaque bacteria by up to 84%.

Pomegranate Protects Against Liver Damage

Pomegranate contains compounds that have been shown to protect against liver damage. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that pomegranate juice reduced liver damage in rats with liver disease.

The study showed that the juice reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver.