The ‘Arakta’ variety of pomegranate presently under commercial cultivation in various regions of Maharashtra. Pre-released in the year 1989, It has now been released as ‘Phule Arakta’ for its cultivation by the Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri.The ‘Phule Arakta’ variety of pomegranate is heavy yielder and possesses desirable fruit characters. The fruits are bigger in size, sweet with soft seeds, bold red arils. It also possess glossy, attractive, dark red skin. It is less susceptible to fruit spots and thrips. These little red devils are not only perfect from the outside, upon consumption they will make you insides perfect. Here are some flabbergasting facts about the Arakta variety of pomegranate.
Lowers Blood Pressure
High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the leading drivers of heart attacks and strokes. In one study, people with hypertension had a significant reduction in blood pressure after consuming 5 ounces (150 ml) of pomegranate juice daily for two weeks. Other studies have found similar effects, especially for systolic blood pressure, which is the higher number in a blood pressure reading. Moreover, Regular intake of pomegranate juice has been shown to lower blood pressure levels in as little as two weeks.
The Power of Punicalagin
Punicalagins are extremely potent antioxidants found in pomegranate juice and peel. They’re so powerful that pomegranate juice has been found to have three times the antioxidant activity of red wine and green tea. Pomegranate extract and powder is typically made from the peel, due to its high antioxidant and punicalagin content.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Chronic inflammation is one of the leading drivers of many serious diseases. This includes heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and even obesity. Pomegranates have potent anti- inflammatory properties, which are largely mediated by the antioxidant properties of the punicalagins.
Test-tube studies have shown that they can reduce inflammatory activity in the digestive tract, as well as in breast cancer and colon cancer cells. One 12-week study in people with diabetes found that 1.1 cups (250 ml) of pomegranate juice per day lowered the inflammatory markers CRP and interleukin-6 by 32% and 30%, respectively. If you are interested in reducing inflammation in your body, pomegranate is an excellent addition to your diet.
Red grenade against Arthritis
Arthritis is a common problem everywhere. There are many different types, but most involve some form of inflammation in the joints. Given that the plant compounds in pomegranate have anti-inflammatory effects, it makes sense that they could help treat arthritis. Interestingly, laboratory studies suggest that pomegranate extract can block enzymes that are known to damage joints in people with osteoarthritis. This extract has also been shown to relieve arthritis in mice, but evidence from human-based research is very limited so far.
Improves memory
There is some evidence that pomegranate can improve memory. One study in surgical patients found that 2 grams of pomegranate extract prevented deficits in memory after surgery. Another study in 28 older adults with memory complaints found that 8 ounces (237 ml) of pomegranate juice per day significantly improved markers of verbal and visual memory. Studies in mice also suggest that pomegranate may help fight Alzheimer's disease. Some evidence shows that pomegranate may improve memory in older adults and post-surgery. In addition, studies in mice suggest that it may protect against Alzheimer's disease.
The Bottom Line
These pomegranates are one of the healthiest foods on the planet, packed with nutrients and powerful plant compounds. They have wide-ranging benefits and may help reduce your risk of various serious illnesses, including
heart disease, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. What’s more, they may boost your memory. Say goodbye to those 5 almonds a day! If you want to reap the many health benefits pomegranates have to offer, either eat the arils directly or drink pomegranate juice.
