Pomegranate Peels and Seeds Extract Shows Promise in Reducing Cardiovascular Risk – A recent study published in the journal Nutrients found that an extract obtained from the non-edible parts of pomegranates, using a sustainable and green method called hydrodynamic cavitation, shows anti-hypertensive properties. The extract from pomegranate peels and seeds has high bioaccessibility in the intestine and exhibits comparable systolic blood pressure-lowering abilities. The study used in vivo experiments in a rat hypertension model and found that the extract exhibited anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects. The pharmacokinetic profile indicated significant levels of ellagic acid in the blood, but urolithin A and punicalagin α were not detected. The researchers believe that the absence of urolithin A and punicalagin α in the blood might be due to the longer metabolism. Other studies have also shown that pomegranate juice possesses antioxidant, anti-hypertensive, and anti-atherosclerotic properties. A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial found that pomegranate extract (PE) significantly decreased diastolic blood pressure after 8 weeks. Besides its antioxidative effects, pomegranate juice reduces triglycerides, LDL-C, increases HDL-C, and lowers blood pressure. Studies have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, wound healing, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties of pomegranate peel.
Key findings:
- Extract from non-edible parts (PPE) was as effective as whole fruit extract (PFE) in reducing cardiovascular risk in rats with induced hypertension.
- PPE exhibited high bioaccessibility and additional anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- PPE lowered systolic blood pressure at lower doses than ellagic acid, a known anti-hypertensive compound.
- Hydrodynamic cavitation, a green and efficient extraction method, was used for both PPE and PFE.
What are the active compounds in pomegranate that have anti-hypertensive properties?
The active compounds in pomegranate that have anti-hypertensive properties include:
- Ellagic Acid: Pomegranate is rich in ellagic acid, which has been associated with anti-hypertensive effects.
- Punicic Acid: Found in pomegranate seed oil, punicic acid has been shown to have anti-atherogenic and anti-hypertensive effects.
- Anthocyanins: Pomegranate seeds are rich in anthocyanins, which contribute to its anti-hypertensive properties.
- Flavonoids: Pomegranate contains various flavonoids, which have been linked to anti-hypertensive effects.
- Tannins: Tannins found in pomegranate are also associated with its anti-hypertensive properties. These compounds, among others, contribute to the diverse medicinal properties of pomegranate, including its anti-hypertensive effects.
What is the recommended daily intake of pomegranate for anti-hypertensive benefits?
There is no standard recommended daily intake of pomegranate for anti-hypertensive benefits, as the research on this topic is not definitive. However, some studies suggest that drinking 8 ounces (approximately 237 mL) of pomegranate juice daily may help lower systolic blood pressure (the top number) by about 5 mmHg.
This is a possible effective dose, but it is not a universally accepted recommendation. It is essential to note that pomegranate juice may interact with certain medications, such as those for high blood pressure, and it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before using pomegranate for medicinal purposes.
What are the other health benefits of pomegranate?
Pomegranates offer a variety of health benefits beyond their anti-hypertensive properties. Some of the other health benefits of pomegranates include:
- Antioxidant properties: Pomegranates contain high levels of antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Heart health: Pomegranates have been shown to lower blood pressure, improve blood flow, and reduce cholesterol levels, which may help prevent heart disease.
- Cancer prevention: Pomegranates contain compounds that may slow tumor growth and reduce inflammation, although more research is needed to confirm these effects.
- Urinary health: Pomegranates may help prevent kidney stones and support urinary health.
- Exercise endurance: Pomegranate compounds may increase exercise endurance and recovery.
- Digestive health: Pomegranates contain fiber, which helps promote a healthy gut microbiome and supports digestive health.
- Skin health: Pomegranate juice may act as an internal sunscreen, protecting the skin from UV damage.
- Men’s health: Pomegranates have been linked to alleviating erectile dysfunction.
- Cognitive function: Pomegranate consumption may improve cognitive function in healthy individuals.
- Immune system support: Pomegranates may help promote a healthy immune system.
However, it is essential to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of pomegranates and to determine the optimal dosage for specific health conditions.
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