6 Amazing Benefits of Pomegranate Peel

The pomegranate is a fruit of a lush ruby color that delights our palate in famous dishes like chile en nogada. This fruit originated in countries in the Middle East, from Iran to the Western Himalayas. It arrived in Mexico during colonization, as it was brought by Spanish evangelizers. According to experts, the first crops are believed to have taken place in Tehuacán, Puebla. In addition to being an essential ingredient for the preparation of traditional chiles en nogada, pomegranate and its peel are attributed with multiple health benefits. This Middle Eastern fruit is used to treat vomiting, intestinal infections, and empacho.Does pomegranate contain vitamins and minerals?Pomegranate is not only delicious and refreshing, but it is also a fruit with many health benefits, as it contains vitamins and minerals:Vitamin AVitamin B9Vitamin CPotassiumPhosphorusIronMagnesiumZincCalciumSeleniumTo top it off, this rich fruit has very few calories, as 80% is water. That is why it is the perfect snack; just add a little chili powder and lime for a healthy treat. Apart from being a nutrient-rich fruit, pomegranate will help you maintain a healthy heart, lower cholesterol, combat stress, and improve blood circulation. Remember that it is also rich in antioxidants, making it your best option for salads and snacks.You can also read: Pomegranate: the fruit with the most benefitsWhat are the benefits of pomegranate peel?Although the fruit has many properties and health benefits, the peel contains even more antioxidants than the fruit. So now you know, think twice before throwing them away. Next, we tell you all the benefits that pomegranate peel has for health, according to Ayurveda.Pomegranate peel against chronic diseasesAlthough it may seem hard to believe, the peel of this exotic fruit could help reduce the chances of suffering from chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart diseases. According to two scientific studies, consuming pomegranate peel extract improves blood sugar levels and lowers cholesterol levels. It also had positive effects on blood pressure.Properties against cancer?A study published in 2017 indicates that the extract of pomegranate peel has good results in the treatment of prostate cancer, as this natural ingredient helps to annihilate cancer cells. In the case of colon, breast, and oral cancer, pomegranate has properties that combat this disease, as it halts the spread of cancer.You can also read: Pecan and Pomegranate TartEnhances brain functionDue to its high antioxidant content, pomegranate peel is the perfect ingredient to combat oxidative stress, which results in conditions like Alzheimer's. However, more studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of this substance.Annihilates bacteriaFor many years, pomegranate peel has been used as a mouthwash to treat sore throat. On the other hand, it also helps with wound healing and fights infections. Pomegranate and arthritisDue to its high antioxidant content, pomegranate peel is considered to have benefits for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, as this ingredient contains punicalagin, a chemical compound that prevents inflammation of cartilage and joints.You can also read:Salad with Pomegranate, Pear, and GranolaBenefits for the skinThanks to its richness in antioxidants and polyphenols, pomegranate peel is thought to improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation, a medical condition that causes dark spots on the skin. According to a scientific study published in 2020, a clinical trial with 30 volunteers found that the topical application of masks with pomegranate peel improved the appearance of skin spots after one month. On the other hand, it is said that using a mixture made with pomegranate peel and water would help treat acne and other skin conditions, as it contains a large amount of antioxidants.How to use pomegranate peel?To make your own pomegranate peel powder, which you can use to prepare teas and even masks, you just need to follow a few steps.Peel the pomegranates and save the peelsLet the peels dry in the sun for 2 or three days or until completely dryPlace the peels in a blender and blend until you obtain a very fine powderStore the pomegranate peel powder in a container with a lid