The pomegranate fruit is best known for the jewel-like arils stored inside its leathery red rind. Pomegranates have been grown for centuries in India, Asia, the Mediterranean, and the tropical parts of Africa. In ancient times, pomegranates represented, and the fruit has been depicted many times in art throughout history.
Pomegranates are packed with hundreds of edible ruby-red seeds called arils that have a sweet, tart flavor. They’re also full of nutrients that benefit the heart, especially antioxidants that help quell inflammation. In fact, pomegranate juice contains three times the antioxidant activity of red wine or green tea. Studies suggest the juice may help lower levels of harmful LDL cholesterol and reduce blood pressure.
Pomegranate arils are packed with nutrients and antioxidants, substances that can help prevent or delay damage within the cells. In fact, pomegranate juice has three times as many antioxidants as other antioxidant-rich beverages, such as green tea and red wine.