The Power Of The Pomegranate

Study Finds Fruit's Extract May Help Save Joints, Thwart Arthritis

(WebMD)  Instead, they made their own pomegranate extract from powdered pomegranate. Sophisticated filtering and measuring was used for science's sake.

The pomegranate has "been revered through the ages for its medicinal uses," write the researchers.

Antioxidants in pomegranates fight inflammation and may also counter cancer and heart disease.

In May, researchers reported that pomegranate juice may help prevent the return of prostate cancer. In March, another study showed that pomegranate juice may fight hardening of the arteries.


Pomegranate Season

Pomegranates are in season in the U.S. in the fall. They've got a thick, red, leathery skin. The seeds inside are the edible part.

Want to try a pomegranate? You might want to wear a bib or old clothes. The seeds leave a very strong stain and are used as a dye.

Sources: Ahmed, S. The Journal of Nutrition, September 2005; vol 135: pp 2096-2102. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases, "Handout on Health: Osteoarthritis." News release, Case Western Reserve University. WebMD Medical News: "Pomegranate Juice May Curb Prostate Cancer." WebMD Medical News: "Pomegranate Juice May Clear Clogged Arteries." U.S. Department of Agriculture.