In the usual way of eating pomegranates, we only consume the seeds and discard the skin. However, pomegranate peel has numerous health benefits, and utilizing this peel can enhance health and prevent various diseases.
Benefits of Pomegranate Peel
1. Health Benefits of Pomegranate Peel
Pomegranate peel is rich in antioxidants, leading to many health benefits. Here are nine lesser-known benefits of pomegranate peel.
1.1. Reduces the Risk of Chronic Diseases
Pomegranate peel contains many nutrients that can help lower the risk factors associated with chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Research has shown that when used as a supplement, pomegranate peel can improve cholesterol levels and blood sugar in obese and overweight individuals by acting as a powerful anti-inflammatory.
Pomegranate peel is rich in antioxidants, which can prevent many chronic diseases. (Image: ST).
1.2. Prevents Hearing Loss
Oxidative stress is a contributing factor to age-related hearing loss. Pomegranate peel contains a high number of antioxidants, which help protect against the harmful effects of oxidation, potentially preventing hearing loss.
1.3. Boosts Brain Function
The benefits of pomegranate peel stem from its high antioxidant content. This not only helps prevent various chronic diseases but also improves the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, enhancing their cognitive function.
1.4. Has Anti-Cancer Properties
Pomegranate peel contains a significant amount of punicalagin, a polyphenol that has demonstrated anti-cancer properties in several in vitro studies.
Some studies also reveal that pomegranate peel extracts have anti-proliferative effects, helping to slow down or prevent the spread of tumor cells, thus reducing the risk of developing prostate, breast, oral, and colorectal cancers.
Moreover, researchers have found that pomegranate peel may benefit liver cancer and possess liver-protective properties due to its high antioxidant content.
Pomegranate peel contains a polyphenol that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. (Image: ST).
1.5. Good for Oral Health
Extracts from pomegranate peel can prevent plaque formation and cavities. Additionally, the strong antibacterial properties of pomegranate peel help treat mouth ulcers, gum diseases, and other dental issues. It can also reduce infections and accelerate wound healing due to its antibacterial characteristics.
1.6. Supports Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The benefits of pomegranate peel in treating rheumatoid arthritis come from its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce the severity of arthritis symptoms, such as joint pain.
Additionally, the punicalagin compound in pomegranate peel helps prevent arthritis and cartilage damage.
1.7. Beneficial for Bones and Joints
Rich in essential minerals and bioactive compounds, pomegranate peel extract helps prevent bone loss and regenerate new bone tissue. Regular consumption of pomegranate peel tea can lower the risk of osteoporosis and fractures in postmenopausal women. Furthermore, pomegranate peel contains many antioxidants like tannins, polyphenols, and flavonoids, which also provide numerous benefits for bone health.
Drinking pomegranate peel tea can prevent the risk of osteoporosis and fractures in postmenopausal women. (Image: ST).
1.8. Slows Down Aging Process
Pomegranate peel is also well-known for its use in beauty treatments, specifically for its ability to slow down the signs of aging. Studies suggest that pomegranate peel extract, when combined with seed oil, enhances procollagen synthesis, fights enzymes that break down collagen, and promotes skin cell growth. This process effectively slows skin aging and reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
1.9. Relieves Sore Throat
In traditional medicine, pomegranate peel is used to alleviate colds and coughs. Pomegranate peel powder mixed with water can be used as a gargle, effectively relieving sore throat. Some evidence indicates that hydro-alcoholic extracts of pomegranate peel have antibacterial effects that can treat sore throat and cough.
2. How to Use Pomegranate Peel for Health Protection
To use pomegranate peel, you can dry the peel, grind it into a fine powder, and use it gradually. The process is quite simple:
- Wash the pomegranate thoroughly to remove dirt, then separate the peel from the seeds.
- Dry the pomegranate peel in sunlight until it feels firm and shriveled, indicating it is fully dried.
- Place the peel in a blender or food processor and grind it into a fine powder.
- Store in an airtight glass container in a cool, dry place.
When using, simply mix about a teaspoon of pomegranate peel powder with warm water and enjoy it like other teas. If you are not used to it, start with a small amount and gradually increase over time.
Not only can it be consumed as a drink, but you can also use pomegranate peel powder as a facial mask. Mix it with a little water and apply it to your face after cleansing. Maintain the pomegranate peel mask 1-2 times a week to see noticeable improvements in your skin. However, to avoid allergies, it is advisable to test a small amount of the mask on your hand first to check for any adverse reactions.
The above are the benefits of pomegranate peel for health and how to use it. Studies have not found any side effects from using pomegranate peel, but it is still advisable to consult your doctor. It is important to choose pomegranates from reliable sources, free from pesticides or harmful chemicals, as these can be detrimental to health.
