The pomegranate fruit has taken center stage not only for its taste but for its magnificent health properties. Not only are they rich in heart healthy antioxidants, they also help to keep platelets from clumping together to form dangerous blood clots. Not to mention its cancer preventative effects. This super fruit also has a rich and interesting history as well as some unique characteristics. Here are some pomegranate fun facts you may not know:
Pomegranate Facts: History of pomegranates
This sweet fruit with its characteristic tart undertones is one of the oldest fruits in existence. The first records of this fruit date back to 100 B.C. where it’s thought to be native to Persia.
The pomegranate fruit was mentioned in the book of Deuteronomy in the Old Testament of the Bible. It’s seen frequently in Christian art where it’s considered to be a symbol of resurrection.
Some Jewish Bible scholars believe the pomegranate, not the apple, was the forbidden fruit in the garden of Eden.
The ancient Egyptians believed the pomegranate to be a symbol of fertility and used it in a variety of food preparations.
The pomegranate was brought to America by the Spanish conquistadors.
The ancient Romans used pomegranate rinds as a form of leather.
The Buddhists believe the pomegranate to be a blessed fruit and often use it in their art.
Pomegranate Facts: The pomegranate plant
A pomegranate tree can grow up to fifteen feet in height and may live for more than one hundred years.
Once the pomegranate fruit is picked from the tree it stops ripening but will become more flavorful after being in storage.
Pomegranate fruit is grown in the U.S., mainly in the drier areas of California and Arizona.
Pomegranate Facts: Nutrition
An entire pomegranate has about one hundred calories and yields a little over a half cup of pomegranate seeds.
Pomegranates are a rich source of a strong anti-oxidant class known as punicalagins which are thought to be responsible for the major health benefits of the juice. Punicalagins are though to broken down into ellagic acid, the potent anti-oxidant found in raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries which also have strong antioxidant activity.
The antioxidant potential of the pomegranate fruit is thought to be up to three times higher than that of green tea and red wine.
Pomegranates contain about five grams of fiber per serving and are fat free.
There is more scientific research being done on the health benefits of pomegranate than almost any other fruit due to its potential health benefits.
There’s no doubt the colorful pomegranate fruit will continue to grow in popularity as more and more people discover its taste and health benefits. It’s enlightening to know that when you indulge in this healthy fruit, you’ll consuming one of the oldest fruits in the world.
