Health Benefits Of Pomegranate Peels
1. May Fight Acne, Pimples And Rashes
Pomegranate peel is said to possess antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties (1) It can effectively fight skin problems like acne, pimples, and rashes. The peel is rich in antioxidants and helps in keeping bacteria and other infections at bay (2). You can easily prepare a pomegranate face mask at home by mixing its peel powder with other beneficial natural ingredients like milk and rose water. Anecdotal evidence suggests that pomegranate peels can also help in removing dead skin cells from your face when it is used in the form of a face pack or facial scrub. However, more studies are required to understand pomegranate’s benefits for the skin. What Are Its Benefits? Pomegranates can help with sore throat, detoxification, and improve gut health. Who Can Consume It? Anyone looking for a great source of vitamin C and improved body health How Often? You can consume 1 cup of pomegranate seeds daily. Caution Avoid this fruit if you are suffering from diarrhea.
2. May Help In Detoxification Of The Body
Antioxidants proactively combat toxic agents in the body. Hence, the high antioxidant content of pomegranate peel is a capable tool when used to detoxify the body. A study conducted on mice found that the aqueous extract of pomegranate peel may promote detoxification (3). It is said to be very useful in fighting the toxins that are present in the body. However, limited data is available in this context.
3. May Prevent Wrinkles And Other Signs Of Aging
Over-exposure to the sun and pollution are two main causes of premature aging. Research indicates that pomegranate peel extract – when used with seed oil – promotes procollagen synthesisi The formation of procollagen that takes place in the cells and aids in collagen production. , fights the enzymes that break down collagen, and effectively promotes skin cell growth. Thus, it naturally and effectively delays skin aging and wrinkles (4). A study conducted by the Hallym University (Korea) on human skin cells and hairless mice found that the ellagic acid that is found in pomegranate peel extracts may alleviate wrinkles (5). Therefore, it may help keep your skin looking younger.
4. May Cure Sore Throat And Coughs
According to traditional medicinal practices, pomegranate peel helps relieve cough and is used in a powdered form with water as a gargle to help relieve sore throat (6). Multiple studies suggest that the hydroalcoholic extract of pomegranate peel possesses antibacterial properties that may help in treating sore throat and cough (7), (8).
5. May Act As A Natural Moisturiser And Sunscreen
Limited data is available on this point. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that the ellagic acid found in the pomegranate peel may prevent the moisture in skin cells from drying out, hence keeping your skin hydrated. Furthermore, pomegranate peel is said to hydrate and protect your skin from environmental toxins and restore its pH balance. That is also why they are used in skin care products for their moisturizing properties. Pomegranate peel contains effective sunblock agents and acts as a natural sunscreen to prevent and repair the damage caused to the skin by UVA and UVB rays (9).
6. May Fight Against Skin Cancer
Amazing new research has revealed that pomegranate extracts contain a preventive agent that fights against the onset of skin cancer (10). The anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties of pomegranate peel are purported to be effective in the prevention and treatment of skin cancer. Pomegranate peel prevents the cancer cell proliferation process, thereby reducing the risk of skin cancer. However, very few research studies are available in this regard, and more long-term research is required to understand this benefit of pomegranate peel in humans.
7. Rich Source Of Vitamin C
Vitamin C, another must-have nutrient for which we often purchase expensive supplements, is found in abundance in pomegranate peel (11), (12). Vitamin C is an extensive growth agent that helps heal wounds and form scar tissue. It forms proteins to build body mass and is an important player in the repair and maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth (13).
8. May Protect Against Heart Disease
Pomegranate peel is rich in antioxidants that are highly capable of protecting LDL cholesterol against oxidation. It is also said to possess vasculoprotective effects that prevent heart problems (14). This is beneficial because LDL cholesterol oxidation in your body can lead to oxidative stress, a major contributing factor toward heart disease and other ailments (15).
9. May Improve Dental Hygiene
Pomegranate peels are often used in tooth powders and toothpaste. These peels are said to possess antibacterial and anticaries effects that can help deal with a host of dental problems like gingivitisi A commonly occurring gum inflammation characterized by bleeding gums that are caused due to a bacterial infection. , dental plaque, cariesi Tooth decay caused due to bacterial action on the teeth that produces acids, degrades the teeth, and creates holes. , and mouth ulcers (16). However, more long-term studies are required to understand this benefit of pomegranate peels.
10. May Boost Bone Health
Pomegranate peels are effective in reducing bone density loss. Studies indicate that consuming concoctions made of pomegranate peels can help boost bone health and prevent the onset of osteoporosis after menopause. A study states that pomegranate peel is rich in tannins, polyphenols, and flavonoids, and the consumption of its extract as a dietary supplement has a beneficial effect on bone health (17).
11. May Improve Gut Health
Pomegranate peel contains tannins that help reduce inflammation of the intestine with its anti-inflammatory properties (18). Furthermore, this fruit peel helps in reducing the swelling of hemorrhoidsi Swollen veins in the rectum and the anus that cause extreme discomfort, itching, and even bleeding. (19). Some anecdotal evidence suggests that pomegranate peel also helps stop bleeding during diarrhea and improves digestion.
12. May Arrest Hair Loss And Prevent Dandruff
Pomegranate peel extracts have been effectively used to combat hair loss and proactively control dandruff.The antifungal activity of pomegranate peel helps reduce the hair loss caused by fungal activity and prevents dandruff (20), (21). However, limited research is available in this regard. While pomegranate peels may benefit your health in many ways, it also comes with several side effects. Keep reading to understand how it may adversely affect your health.
Side Effects Of Pomegranate Peel
Pomegranate peel is generally considered safe for consumption when properly prepared. However, it contains natural compounds that might cause allergic reactions such as itching, swelling, or rash. Additionally, the peel may be difficult to digest, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort or constipation (22). Therefore, wash the peels thoroughly to remove any traces of pesticides or contaminants. Also, ensure the fruits are organic and sourced from sustainable places. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should be cautious and avoid using the peels without consulting the doctor. Seek medical attention if you notice any side effects after consuming pomegranate peel. You can easily prepare pomegranate peel powder at home. However, before that, check out the proper way to peel a pomegranate.
How To Peel A Pomegranate
Here’s how you can make pomegranate peel powder at home.
How To Make Pomegranate Powder
Follow these steps to make pomegranate powder in the confines of your home.
Take four to five pomegranate fruits and cut each fruit into four sections, longitudinally. Remove all the seeds and separate the peels. Further, cut each peel into two halves. With a knife, peel away the yellow portion just beneath the red skin if you wish to use the peels for therapeutic purposes. This is because the yellow portion, when dried and powdered, can give a bitter taste to your concoctions. However, if you are using the peel for external application, you can keep the yellow portion intact. Place the peels on a plate or dry cloth and put them under direct sunlight. Allow them to dry. Leave the peels under the sun until they become hard and lose all moisture. Add all the sun-dried peels to a clean, dry food processor and grind for two minutes until you get a fine powder. Store the powder in a clean airtight glass jar.
Garrico says, “Pomegranate peels have an astringent taste that works well with a variety of spices, especially cinnamon.” Keep scrolling to learn interesting ways of incorporating pomegranate peel into your diet.
Recipes
1. Pomegranate Peel Tambli
Ingredients
Pomegranate peel – 3-inch piece Freshly grated coconut – 1/2 cup Thinned yogurt – 1/2 cup Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon Cumin seeds – 1/2 teaspoon Salt – 3/4 teaspoon Cooking oil – 1 teaspoon Mustard seeds – 1/2 teaspoon A few curry leaves
Directions Get the advantage of pomegranate peel tambli as a diarrhea treatment at home.
2. Pomegranate Herbal Tea
Ingredients
Pomegranate powder – 1 teaspoon Mint leaves Ginger Cumin seeds Organic green tea leaves Honey – 1 teaspoon
Directions Barbara Kovalenko , Nutrition Consultant, says, “Pomegranate peel tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and lower your risk of certain diseases. It also contains anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and promote overall health.” She adds, “One of the most interesting benefits of pomegranate peel tea is its potential ability to stop diarrhea. This is thought to be due to the presence of tannins in the peel, which can help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the gut. However, more research is needed to confirm this effect, so it is not recommended to use pomegranate peel tea as a sole treatment for diarrhea.” You may use this pomegranate powder in almost any herbal mixture you want. Is pomegranate peel good for weight loss? Pomegranate peel-fortified bread, which is high in fiber and antioxidative properties, helps in weight loss (23). Is pomegranate peel good for diabetes? Pomegranate peel contains polyphenols, and its extract helps improve lipid status in people with type 2 diabetes and may help manage blood pressure ( 24). Are there any risks or side effects associated with using pomegranate peel? Intake of pomegranate peel might cause skin irritation or naphylaxis (25). These peels may also interact with anticoagulants like warfarin, further enhancing the effects of the drug (26). How does pomegranate peel compare to other fruits in terms of health benefits? Pomegranate peels are packed with antioxidants and beneficial vitamins and possess anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiviral properties, which make them a top, effective ingredient. Are there any cultural or historical uses of pomegranate peel that are still relevant today? Pomegranate peel features extensively in Ayurveda and other traditional medicinal texts for its medicinal uses. In some cultures, it was used as a traditional natural dye, which is still relevant today. Can pomegranate peel be used as a natural alternative to synthetic supplements or medications? Possibly not. While the benefits of pomegranate peels are backed by a few scientific studies, one can use them as a natural supplement in their everyday life but not as an alternative to traditional medications. Consumption of pomegranate peels for medicinal purposes should be done after consulting a doctor.
Illustration: Promising Benefits Of Pomegranate Peel For Skin Hair And Health
Dive deeper into the amazing benefits of pomegranate peel for skin, hair, and health. Watch this video for insights into how you can incorporate it in your daily routines for maximum results.
