Pomegranate properties

Pomegranate:

Pomegranate seed oil Punica Granatum

The oil is untested and scientific data is hard to find. part of the following information is extracted from :
http://www.uni-graz.at/~katzer/engl/Puni_gra.html, which is an excellent site for information about spices and herbs


History: Pomegranate is a very popular fruit all over the Middle East.
Though it can’t be proven definitely, the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge (ets ha-daat [עֵץ הַדַּעַת]) mentioned in the biblical history of creation most probably was meant to be a pomegranate — though most Westerners would hardly believe it, it’s nowhere said to be an apple! Rather, the Hebrew text uses pəri [פְּרִי], an unspecific term meaning just fruit.


Remarkably, in Hebrew the word rimon [רימון] may mean both pomegranate fruit and shell. The underlying Semitic root, RMM, means "high", "exalted" and does not refer to graininess.


There is also a parallel in Greek mythology, where the earth goddess Demeter [Δημήτηρ] lost her daughter Persephone [Περσεφόνη] to the underworld god Hades [ᾍδης] because of one single pomegranate grain the daughter had accepted.
The name pomegranate is of ancient origin.
In classical Latin, the fruit was known either as malum punicum or malum granatum. In these names, malum means apple, granatum derives from granum grain and means (multi)grained
Precautions are : Not suitable for children

Pomegranate seed oil is high in lipids including the rare punicic acid, which helps heal inflammation and reduces swelling.

When taken internally:
Cold pressed seed oil (pcpso) showed strong antioxidant activity when ingested.

Dermal effect:
It has been found to nourish and moisturize the skin, improving elasticity, reducing wrinkles and preventing aging.
It has also been shown to help sunburned and ultraviolet damaged skin

Ingredients of the oils vary but in general contain the following:

1. Punicic acid PUFA(more than 76 %)

2. Conjugated linolenic acid (CLNA) C18.3

3. Tocopherols : Tocopherols (or TCP) are a class of chemical compounds of which many have vitamin E activity.

4. Sterols: Within the past decade, interest in plant sterols as a dietary supplement has increased, due to studies showing that they can contribute to lower cholesterol levels.

5. Squalene (small amount): Squalene is a natural organic compound and the biochemical precursor to the whole family of steroids

To fully benefit from the pomegranate oil, it has to be ingested, which would then complement its action as carrier oil. Tinctures or extracts of pomegranate can also be added to the oil.
Pomegranate oil is non-toxic and has no hormonal influence.

Collagen stimulation:
The peel (pericarp) is well regarded for its astringent properties; the seeds for conferring invulnerability in combat and stimulating beauty and fertility (ethnic).

Experiments suggest that pomegranate fractions facilitate skin repair:
1. aqueous extracts (especially of pomegranate peel) promoting regeneration of dermis,
2. pomegranate seed oil promoting regeneration of epidermis.

Application of the oil:
1. anti-atherosclerosis
2. anti-hypertension
3. anti-obesity
4. hypolipidemic
5. anti-tumor

In cosmetic products it can be used for:
1. skin regeneration
2. wound healing
3. skin elasticity
4. wrinkles
5. skin aging (prevention)

Therapeutic properties: it is calming and healing for
1. Irritated skin
2. Dry skin
3. Sensitive skin
4. Allergic skin
5. Pruritus
6. Psoriasis (??)
7. Eczema (??)