benefits of pomegranates

Pomegranate juice works wonders for dry skin. Its small molecular structure penetrates deeply into the skin to provide ample moisturisation and hydration to the skin. Thus it soothes dry and irritated skin. Its content of punicic acid, an omega 3 fatty acid keeps the skin constantly hydrated by sealing in the moisture. Pomegranate juice is beneficial for oily and pimple prone skin too. Application of pomegranate juice on oily skin prevents the outbreak of pimples and controls the production of sebum.

Pomegranate helps in the regeneration of cells in the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin. It has an ability to hasten the process of healing of wounds. Even the oil of pomegranate seeds is loaded with skin friendly nutrients which are beneficial for the strengthening and regeneration of the epidermis. It also protects the skin from sun burns and heals the damage caused to the skin due to constant exposure to the sun.

Pomegranates are also known to extend the life of fibroblasts which are responsible for the production of collagen and elastin that tighten the skin and prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Collagen and elastin provide strength and support to the skin. When the fibers of collagen and elastin break down, the skin develops laxity which causes wrinkles and jowls. Pomegranate is also very useful for lightening the skin tone. Drinking a glass of pomegranate juice daily gives a fair and glowing skin tone.

Mix 1 teaspoon each of powdered green papaya, grape seed oil, and grape seed extract with 2 teaspoons of pomegranate juice and apply it on the face. Leave it on for about an hour and wash it off with lukewarm water.

Pomegranate contains anthocyanins and hydrolysable tannins which possess strong antioxidant and antitumor promoting properties. When applied directly on the skin, ellagic acid, a polyphenol antioxidant found in pomegranates inhibits the growth of cancer of the skin.

Drinking pomegranate juice regularly strengthens the hair follicles which in turn prevent hair fall, thus giving the hair a healthy and lustrous appearance. ? The fruit is also high in phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, zinc and iron. There is very little fat in a pomegranate and it does not contain cholesterol.

Pomegranate tree grows to about five and eight meters tall. It is cultivated at a commercial scale in vast regions across Indian subcontinent, Iran, Caucuses, and Mediterranean regions for its fruits. Completely grownup tree bears numerous spherical, bright red, purple, or orangeyellow colored fruits depending on the cultivar types. Each fruit measures about 610 cm in diameter and weighs about 200 gm. Its tough outer skin (rind) features leathery texture.

Wash pomegranate fruit in cold water or rinse in tepid water to bring to normal temperature if kept in the cold storage. Pomegranate is one of the most extensively cultivated fruits for food, juice, flavor, and color, making it a common ingredient in new functional foods often called

Pomegranate juice may improve blood flow to the heart in people with ischemic coronaryheart disease(CHD). In a study of 45 people with CHD and myocardial ischemia (in which not enough blood gets to the heart muscle), participants who drank about 8 fluid ounces of pomegranate juice daily for 3 months had less ischemia during astress test. Study participants who did not drink the juice, meanwhile, had evidence of more stressinduced ischemia. The study noted no negative effects to drinking pomegranate juice (even on blood sugar levels orbody weight). Lead researcher, Dean Ornish, MD, believes pomegranate juice may even be able to help prevent heart disease in people who do not already have it.

Pomegranate juice may slowprostate cancergrowth. Antioxidants are known to help prevent and repair DNA damage that can lead to cancer. Pomegranate juice wont fend off cancer by itself, but studies suggest it may be a wonderful addition to the balanced, plantbased diet recommended by the American Institute of Cancer Research, says Collins. Men who have already had preliminary treatment for prostate cancer may benefit from a daily dose of pomegranate juice.