POMEGRANATE
Punica granatum

WHAT IS POMEGRANATE?

Pomegranate (scientific name: Punica granatum), also known as "granada" or "Chinese apple," are said to have originated in or near Persia. Their English name is derived from the French words "pomme" for apple and "grenate" for many seeds, giving rise to the many seeded apple. Pomegranate is a tree. Various parts of the tree and fruit are used to make medicine.

Many cultures use pomegranate as a folk medicine. It is primarily cultivated in Mediterranean counties, parts of the United States, Afghanistan, Russia, India, China, and Japan.

Pomegranates are high in nutrients, including vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as potassium, zinc, and calcium. The antioxidant qualities of this super fruit are its most significant feature.

Plant extracts are rich in bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, sesquiterpenes, and triterpenes, which potentially have antiviral activities. The investigation on the role of a pomegranate peel extract (PPE) in attenuating the interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 Spike glycoprotein and the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor, and on the activity of the virus 3CL protease. Although further studies will be determinant to assess the efficacy of the extract in vivo, the results opened new promising opportunities to employ natural extracts for the development of effective and innovative therapies in the fight against SARS-CoV-2.
Pomegranate have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which are largely mediated by the antioxidant properties of the punicalagins. Test-tube studies have shown that they can reduce inflammatory activity in the digestive tract, as well as in breast cancer and colon cancer cells.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Pomegranate juice is POSSIBLY SAFE for pregnant and breast-feeding women. But there is not enough reliable information about the safety of using other forms of pomegranate, such as pomegranate extract. If you use pomegranate during pregnancy or breast-feeding, stick with the juice.
Low blood pressure: Drinking pomegranate juice can slightly lower blood pressure. Drinking pomegranate juice might increase the risk of blood pressure dropping too low in people who already have low blood pressure.
Allergies to plants: People with plant allergies seem to be more likely to have an allergic reaction to pomegranate.
Surgery: Pomegranate might affect blood pressure. This might interfere with blood pressure control during and after surgery. Stop taking pomegranate at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.