By Maggi Kaur

It is said that one Pomegranate can cure one hundred maladies. The fruit is packed with antioxidants, minerals and nutrients. To name a few, it contains ellagic acid, punicic acid and omega 5 polyunsaturated fatty acid, vitamin A, C and E, minerals like calcium, phosphorous, potassium, iron, folic acid, niacin, thiamin, folate and riboflavin.

While Pomegranate is still available in the farmer’s markets, it is time to put the fruit to the test.

Here are ten benefits of the fruit:

Acne - Boil the peel of one pomegranate in 4 cups of water down to 1 cup. Allow it to cool, drain and store the liquid and use a cotton ball to generously dab it on as an astringent.
Glowing Skin - Drinking pomegranate juice on a regular basis contributes to glowing skin and slows down the ageing process, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
Wound Healing - The astringent solution for Acne can also be used for healing minor wounds, cuts, bruises and scrapes.
Reduces Cholesterol - Pomegranate is a heart friendly fruit and can be consumed by all ages. Two tablespoons of Pomegranate, while it is in season, clears the arteries, lowers cholesterol, and reduces the risk of strokes and heart disease.
Digestive - Consuming a tablespoon or two of fresh pomegranate seeds cures indigestion, flatulence, bloating, acidity, diarrhea, and dysentery.
Anemia - Pomegranate is a natural source of iron, folic acid, folate and riboflavin and boosts RBC health.
Feeling Depleted after a workout or long day? - A glass of fresh pomegranate juice or a bowl of fresh pomegranate seeds will immediately refresh, restore and rejuvenate.
Arthritis - Pomegranate reduces the inflammation caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis and builds cartilage reducing the risk of osteoarthritis.
Menstrual Problems - Regular consumption of pomegranate juice or seeds alleviates menstrual problems.
Oral Hygiene - Pomegranate seeds and juice contribute to good oral hygiene and fresh breath. They also reduce dental plaque and build up.

So, go ahead, add pomegranate seeds and juice to your diet. Use the seeds as a garnish or put some in your tea. Just be sure, not to miss out on the benefits of this wonderful fruit while it is still in season.

Maggi Kaur is a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner and a registered Yoga Alliance Yoga Instructor.