by Ruth Belena

Created on: February 14, 2009   Last Updated: February 16, 2009

The pomegranate is quite an amazing fruit. It contains many juicy kernels tightly contained within a hard inedible outer skin.The soft edible parts of the pomegranate are so full of juice, they burst in the mouth.

Pomegranates can be cut into two and the kernels picked out with a fork. These can be eaten as they are, and can be used in recipes. Juice extracted from the pomegranate makes a delicious drink, naturally sweet and full of goodness.

Juice from the pomegranate has been used since ancient times as a natural antiseptic, to protect wounds from infection. It is still used as a natural remedy, and has proved effective in treating patients with prostate cancer.

Pure natural pomegranate juice and concentrated juice are available from health stores. It is taken as a natural food supplement and as a heart tonic.

The Health Benefits of Pomegranate:

One pomegranate fruit has around one hundred calories and is high in vitamin C. Pomegranate provides the body with folic acid and potassium. The polyphenols and antioxidants in pomegranates reduce levels of cholesterol in the blood, and actively boost the immune system.

The juice of one pomegranate has more antioxidants than a glass of red wine, or a cup of green tea. These antioxidants mop up free radicals in the bloodstream.

Drinking pomegranate juice daily, or consuming the fruit regularly, will reduce the risk of developing heart diseases. It is known to help prevent hardening of the arteries, heart attack and stroke, because it helps to increase blood flow.

Snacks and Meals Made with Pomegranate:

Pomegranate can be blended or served with other fruit. It's a great ingredient for fruit smoothies, and combines well with banana and orange juice.

Pomegranate can be mixed with a variety of berries, chopped apple, orange segments, banana slices and lemon juice, to make a refreshing fruit salad or a tasty fruit punch.

Pomegranate pulp or juice can be served with vanilla ice-cream. The juice the of the pomegranate can used in jellies, sorbets or souffle.

Some Middle Eastern recipes use pomegranate as a main course ingredient, or use the juice as a marinade for meat.

Pomegranate juice can be mixed with herbs, tomatoes and onion, and combined with couscous, cracked wheat or brown rice.

Pomegranate will add sweetness and color to a home made salad dressing, with a light fruity oil, red wine vinegar, fresh herbs and seasoning.

Pomegranates are very beneficial to health and easily incorporated into snacks and meals. Anyone who normally does not like the idea of eating fruit can enjoy naturally sweet drinks and sweet sticky foods made with pomegranate.

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