Pomegranates are in season which brings us a great opportunity to replenish our bodies with their damn good healthy benefits. Let’s have a look at why pomegranates are considered to be the rubies of the fruit world.
Pomegranates are very rich in nutrients which makes them quite popular around the world. The fruit originated in areas of Northern India, Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan, though it also grows in Peninsular Malaysia, Southeast Asia, California, Armenia, tropical Africa and others. They have a very leathery texture on the outside that may be orange-yellow, red or purple and they are filled with pink arils with seeds inside that are juicy and sweet.
But why are they so damn good for us?
Pomegranates are often appreciated because they are filled with more antioxidants like punicalagin than other super-foods such as acai berry juice or green tea.
Pomegranates are also high in vitamin C, with 100 ml containing 16 percent of a person’s daily requirement. It also contains high amounts of vitamin K that helps to support bone health and vitamin B5 that helps the body metabolise, protein, carbohydrates and fats.
They are filled with manganese which helps to form bone structures during the metabolic process and potassium that helps to maintain cellular functions and balance fluid levels. The fruit is also high in phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, zinc and iron. There is very little fat in a pomegranate and it does not contain cholesterol.
Doesn’t it sound like the perfect anytime-of-the-day fruit?
Benefits of Pomegranate
1. Beauty Benefits
Regenerates Cells. Pomegranate protects the epidermis and dermis by encouraging skin cell regeneration, aiding in the repair of tissues, healing wounds and encouraging circulation to skin that is healing.
Protects from the Sun. Consuming pomegranate provides the skin with compounds that help to protect against free radical damage which can cause sun damage, cancer and sunburn. The oil of a pomegranate contains the antioxidant ellagic acid that can help to inhibit skin tumours to protect the body from skin cancer.
Slows Aging. Pomegranates can help to prevent hyperpigmentation, age spots, fine lines and wrinkles that are often caused by sun damage. On top of the above, pomegranates help to soften the skin and produce additional elastin and collagen making your skin looking more firm, smooth and youthful.
Helps with Dry as well with Oily Skin issues. Pomegranates are often added to skin care products because they have a molecular structure that can penetrate deep layers of most skin types to provide additional moisture. In opposition, oily or combination skin issues such as acne prone can use pomegranate too to sooth these outbreaks and minimize burns or scarring that can occur during breakouts.
2. Health Benefits
Pomegranates help with an array of diseases as well as they improve many health conditions, here’s a list to look at that includes some of them:
· Eliminate Free Radicals.
· Protect Cardiovascular Health.
· Fight Cancer.
· Improve Bone Quality.
· Boost Digestive Condition.
· Increase Appetite.
· Cure Anemia.
· Reduce Inflammation..
· Promote Blood Circulation.
· Help Lose Weight.
· Decrease Risk of Men’s Impotency.
· Treat Prostate Cancer.
· Aid in Pregnancy.
· Inhibit women’s Breast Cancer
So, what can you do with pomegranates this season – besides eating them or drinking their fabulous juice – that will improve your overall beauty routine?
Here are some very easy to do DIY recipes you will not want to miss:
1. Pomegranate Clay Mask
The nutrients of pomegranates are unparalleled and the juice from them can be a wonderful addition to your clay mask. This mask is perfect for getting a bright, clear complexion without drying your skin out.
· 1 tbsp Radiance Mask or any other clay mask (preferably red or golden Aussie clay)
· 1-2 tsp pomegranate juice
Mix together the clay/powder mask and pomegranate juice and apply it all over your face and neck. Leave on for 10-20 minutes and wash it off with lukewarm water.
2. Face Peel Scrub For Acne
Did you know that the pomegranate peel has acne healing properties? Once the seeds have been removed, and the peels are cut into small pieces, place them in a dehydrator or roast on low heat of 145 degrees on parchment lined baking pans. Roast until they are dry and then remove to cool. Place the peels in a blender or grinder and mix well until you have a powder.
· 2 tbsp pomegranate peel powder
· 1 tbsp yogurt
· 1-2 tsp rose water
Mix pomegranate powder with the yogurt and slowly add rose water until a paste is formed. Place on blemishes as spot treatment. Leave on for 5-10 minutes and then rinse with warm water. This can be done as needed or 1-2 times a week.
3. Pomegranate Body Scrub
This body scrub is both exfoliating and immediately restores hydration to the skin.
· 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds
· 2 tbsp raw sugar
· 1 tbsp macadamia oil
· 1 tsp pomegranate seed oil
In a bowl, combine the oil and the sugar and stir well. Add the pomegranate seeds and crush them to get the juice combining them with the sugar/oil mix. Use as a body scrub and concentrate on rough patches such as knees or elbows. Rinse thoroughly when finished.
4. Grapefruit pomegranate mocktail by Food Lovin
A fantastic refreshment rich in antioxidants you could enjoy while having your mask on? This healthy combination taste delicious and comes jam-packed with nutrients. Only good stuff !
• 120 ml of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
• 60 ml of pomegranate juice
• 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lime juice
• 30 ml of soda water
• 30 ml of kombucha
• 1 sprig of rosemary
• Pomegranate seeds, raw sugar
Dealing with the unspoken pains of feminine dryness can feel like a perpetual losing battle so I’d like to share with all of you a little secret well known by the women of my family for centuries that I hope will help you.
Here’s a small secret:
Did you know that pomegranate seed oil has been used for centuries in Mediterranean countries to comfort feminine dryness during menopause? Vaginal dryness commonly affects postmenopausal women, but females in their twenties can also experience such suffering. Thanks to its phytoestrogens, fatty acids and linoleic acid, pomegranate seed oil will help seal in moisture and form a protective barrier over sensitive parts. Besides, it has an anti-inflammatory effect. I highly recommend using only 100% cold pressed and organic certified oil ACO, BIOCERT or USDA ORGANIC for this purpose, absolutely fragrance free.
When women come together and help, inspire, protect and encourage each other - magic happens.
Keep shining bright naturally,
Sonia x