Israel’s Super Fruit

The pomegranate, one of Eretz Yisrael’s seven species, has some potent health benefits which most doctors knew nothing about until recently. This most exotic and regal crown-bearing fruit with dazzling red blood cell-like seeds has always been a favorite of mine but my interest in its health benefits was really peaked 16 years ago. 

I was experiencing a mild yet irritating issue related to depleted, under oxygenated blood. My doctor wasn’t too fazed by it and said the issue would disappear on its own “soon enough”.  Weeks later nothing had changed except for my growing lack of energy. The blood feeds every cell, tissue, gland, organ, and organ system in your body so without strong, oxygen-rich blood these systems can become compromised leading to a feeling of depletion.

One morning I stopped by a juice bar in downtown Jerusalem.  This never happened before but on that day the woman making the drinks specifically asked me if I was having any health issues for which I needed a special drink.  Nothing like Hashgacha to help move things along!  I related my ongoing issue and she immediately declared, “Pomegranate juice of course – effective for all blood problems!”   I immediately downed an extra-large-sized glass and took more home with me. Within 36 hours i was feeling much better and further blood tests a couple of weeks later (during which i kept drinking the juice) showed no remnants of the issue.

I thought that was the coolest thing!  Yes, it could have been a coincidence but all evidence certainly pointed in the way of the pomegranate.  I wasn’t exactly a raw food maven back then but it doesn’t take one to understand that some foods out there have some potent health benefits that doctors just aren’t aware of.  Recently, as more research is being done and word is getting out, more and more medical doctors are recommending pomegranate juice and extracts to some of their cancer patients.

Three of the pomegranate’s many healing properties are extra thrilling! 

First, it has been shown in clinical studies to be the most powerful anti-oxidant of all fruits. Anti-oxidants of course highly recommended in fighting cancer due to their ability to block free radicals. 

Second, every aspect of the tree, especially the bark, has anti parasitical qualities to it which means this fruit is a blood cleanser, a most important foundation of health. Its blood red juice seems to hint at this fact. 

Third, it appears to have some very strong anti-breast cancer properties. A report published in a recent issue of the American Association for Cancer Research reveal that compounds found in pomegranate have suppressive effects on the proliferation of breast cancer cells. Pomegranate seed oil triggers apoptosis – a self-destruct mechanism in breast cancer cells while pomegranate juice is toxic to most estrogen dependent breast cancer cells. Dr. Ephraim Lansky who headed a study by the Israel Institute of Technology on pomegranates’ healing properties explains that, “Pomegranates are unique in that the hormonal combinations inherent in the fruit seem to be helpful both for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.” 

Does this fruit deserve its crown or what?

To get the most health benefits eat at least a couple of bowlfuls of pomegranate seeds per week or have a glass of pomegranate juice several times a week when in season and supplement with organic bottled juice and oil extracts from reputable sources throughout the year. (Pomegranates are in season August – February).

Please note that pomegranate consumption might interfere with certain medications so consult with your health care provider about drug interactions.