The Beauty Of The Pomegranate
The pomegranate has been a much loved part
of the diet of many cultures for thousands of years, and scientists
have recently begun to take a look at its possible health benefits,
over and above those derived from the vitamins and minerals it
contains. Some studies have suggested that the juice of the pomegranate
contains nearly three times the antioxidants found in such foods
as green tea and red wine. In addition, the pomegranate contains
substantial quantities of such important minerals as potassium,
such important vitamins as vitamin C and niacin, and significant
amounts of fiber as well.
Traditional uses of the pomegranate
The pomegranate has long been used in traditional
folk medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including sort throat,
inflammation and rheumatism. These folk uses of the pomegranate
are common throughout the Middle East, Iran and India, where the
fruit is common.
The pomegranate has a touch rind which is
either dark red or brownish in color, and it is similar in size
to an apple or an orange. The edible part of the pomegranate is
the juicy red pulp.
The history of the pomegranate
The name pomegranate is derived from the Latin
term for “fruit of many seeds”, due to the many seeds the interior
of the fruit hold. From ancient times onwards, the pomegranate
has been associated with fertility, and this fruit often makes
appearances in the folklore of ancient Egypt and in Greek mythology
as well.
Eating a pomegranate can be a labor intensive
experience, as the edible seeds must be eaten one at a time to
avoid the bitter membrane that encases them. There are a number
of varieties of pomegranate available throughout the world, and
one of the best ways to distinguish between these types is by
the color of the seeds, which range from light red and dark pink
through a deep scarlet color.
What to look for
When buying pomegranates, it is best to choose
those with the best color, and those which feel heavy. Pomegranates
that are dry looking and wrinkled, or which have a cracked rink,
should be avoided. Pomegranates will keep at room temperature
for two or three days, and in the refrigerator for up to three
months.
In most parts of the United States, the pomegranate
is typically available from September through November. Availability
of fresh pomegranates varies by region of the country, however.
A typical pomegranate contains only about
100 calories, making an excellent food for dieters. Most nutrition
experts recommend eating at least five servings of fruits and
vegetables per day, and pomegranates are an excellent addition
to anyone’s daily diet.
In addition to fresh pomegranates, pomegranate
juice is another popular way to enjoy this popular fruit. Pomegranate
juice can be used to make a wide variety of products, including
jellies, sauces, marinades and vinaigrettes. In addition, the
seeds of the pomegranate are often sprinkled over salads and desserts,
or used to garnish meats, poultry and fish.
With all these things going for it, it is
no wonder that the pomegranate enjoys such long lasting popularity.
While it is not in season for very long, adding a fresh pomegranate
or two to your late fall diet can be very rewarding.