4,450 views
Pomegranate is a type of deciduous tree or shrub of the genus Punica or its fruit. The plant is dry-loving and comes from Iran and central Asia, up to the Himalayas. It has been carried to Armenia, the Mediterranean regions, southeast Asia, tropical Africa, and the southwestern parts of the United States. In many of these places it is grown specifically for its edible fruit. The tree grows to about 8 meters, but rarely reaches that. Where it has planted itself, without human care, it often becomes a bush or a low tree. Its leaves are small, oblong and narrow - 3-7 cm long and 2 cm wide. Its color is orange-red, large with five leaves (sometimes more in cultivated plants). The fruit is spherical, about the size of an orange or grapefruit, with a yellow to reddish skin. Under the skin, the flesh is yellowish. Inside, dozens of pink, red or wine-colored juicy grains are stored, which represent the seeds of the pomegranate. Whole grains are edible, sweet or slightly sour in taste. Pomegranate grows in dry areas and does not like moisture, as in such soil it is easily attacked by fungal diseases. Tolerates frost down to about −10 °C. Pomegranate is defined as a "medicine" and an "antibiotic" that greatly strengthens the immune system and protects against various diseases. With some of its ingredients, it is good for the heart, lowers cholesterol, helps prevent cancer cells from developing and balances blood sugar. It also contains many antioxidants. It helps to expand the blood vessels and also blocks the enzyme ACE, as a result of which a decrease in blood pressure is also noticed. Pomegranate peel contains an alkaloid, tannin and glycoside that help fight worms. Also, the bark is a "killer" of viruses and microbes. It also helps with skin infections and wounds. Another property of pomegranate is that it gives energy and removes fatigue. People with low blood pressure should not drink pomegranate juice because it has the property of lowering blood pressure. In folklore, the pomegranate is a symbol of love and marriage. It is believed that whoever ate of its fruits, given by someone else, will never be forgotten. Such, for example, is the story of Hades and Persephone.