Recent studies show that pomegranate extract and juice reduce blood glucose and improve insulin sensitivity. The flowers of the pomegranate also increase glutathione and antioxidant enzymes. These enzymes combat oxidative stress, a problem that’s inherent in diabetes and can damage vulnerable tissues. Aside from these benefits, pomegranate has been shown to improve blood lipid imbalances and improve blood pressure.
pomegranate juice inhibits virus binding
Researchers have found that pomegranate juice inhibits the binding of the CD4 antigen to recombinant gp120 IIIB and gp120 BaL. Using a cell-based ELISA, pomegranate juice inhibited the binding of FLSC, a chimeric recombinant protein of gp120 BaL linked to the D1D2 domain of CD4. The inhibitory effect was measured by measuring the amount of PJ-S21 bound to CCR5-expressing cells. In this experiment, pomegranate juice was not added to control wells.
Several chemical constituents of pomegranate fruit extract were found to inhibit the binding of viruses. One of these was fulvic acid. In a study of mice infected with influenza A, pomegranate juice inhibited viral replication, inactivating the H5N1 virus. Moreover, it inhibited the replication of influenza A PR8 in MDCK cells.
pomegranate juice inhibits nociception
Research on the antinociceptive properties of pomegranate juice shows that it helps protect the endothelial cells in blood vessels. These cells are essential for optimal vascular function in older adults. Heart disease and vascular diseases are major causes of death and disability for more than 70 million people in the United States. Cardiovascular disease is associated with inflammation and dysfunction of vascular endothelial cells, which inhibit nitric oxide production. This inhibits oxidation of potentially harmful LDL.
The bioactive compounds in pomegranate have anti-inflammatory effects and have been studied for their potential to help combat osteoporosis. A recent study in mice found that pomegranate juice can improve bone health and reverse the damaging effects of perturbed shear stress. However, further research is necessary to confirm this result. For now, pomegranate juice is a promising natural supplement.
pomegranate extract reduces blood pressure
Recent studies show that pomegranate extract lowers blood pressure in humans. The extract, 1000 mg, decreased blood pressure levels in healthy men and women, while decreasing levels of oxidative stress markers and serum lipids. It may also help lower the risk of heart disease. But this is only one possible benefit. Pomegranate extract may have other benefits, too. Here are a few.
The fruit’s juice has also been shown to lower blood pressure. In one study, pomegranate juice was shown to significantly reduce both diastolic and systolic blood pressure. This reduction was seen in both small and large studies, and was not attributed to the dosage. However, pomegranate extract has also shown to reduce systolic blood pressure by more than 5%.
pomegranate extract reduces inflammation
Research shows that pomegranate extract helps to reduce the levels of several inflammatory compounds in the blood. This natural phytonutrient inhibits NF-kB and reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. It also reduces oxidative stress. This study was conducted on rat models of hypertension. This extract significantly decreased the amount of pro-inflammatory cytokines and improved cardiac hypertrophy.
The benefits of pomegranate juice are numerous, including its ability to treat inflammatory conditions. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, and is rich in fiber. It also helps reduce blood pressure and lowers cholesterol. And the extract in pomegranate juice is also helpful for people suffering from diabetes and heart disease. It has been shown to improve endurance, fight inflammation, and lower blood pressure.
pomegranate extract inhibits cancer cell reproduction
There are a variety of studies on the phytochemicals found in pomegranate extract that show it to inhibit cancer cell reproduction. A significant proportion of these compounds is punicic acid, which is the conjugated isomer of linolenic acid. Other phytochemicals found in PE include ursolic acid and luteolin. All three of these substances have anti-cancer effects, but combination doses do not show any more potent effect than single agents.
Another benefit of pomegranate extract is its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The antioxidant and anti-proliferative effects of the fruit’s peel extract have also been noted. PE inhibits the activity of neutrophil myeloperoxidase, which is a type of enzyme that causes inflammation. This anti-inflammatory action helps prevent the onset of lung inflammation in mice.