A pomegranate is a lovely large red fruit with a wonderfully fresh taste. The pomegranate was a symbol of health way back in history, and is consumed in large quantities in countries around the Mediterranean and in the Middle East. The pomegranate originally came from the area between Iran and the Himalayas in India. In the Netherlands, fresh pomegranates are available from October to December. But of course Healthy People pomegranate juice drinks are available throughout the year..
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The history of the pomegranate
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Back in antiquity the pomegranate was seen as a symbol of health, immortality and rebirth. In ancient China the juice was regarded as concentrated life force with the power to bestow immortality. The ancient Egyptians were also aware of the health-giving properties of the pomegranate. In Tutankhamen's tomb archaeologists found pomegranates placed there to promote the rebirth and good health of the Pharaoh.
The pomegranate is also one of the symbols of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, from whose name the word aphrodisiac is derived. Hence it is hardly surprising that the pomegranate is reputed to be an excellent food to increase the libido.
The pomegranate was one of the first fruits to be cultivated. Historians have found references to pomegranate trees planted 4000 years before Christ.
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Scientific research confirms ancient knowledge
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What the Egyptians, the Greeks and the Romans knew centuries ago has since been confirmed by scientific research: the pomegranate is an exceptionally nutritious fruit.
Studies have shown that pomegranate juice contains powerful antioxidants known as polyphenols. In fact, pomegranate juice contains more polyphenols than red wine, grape juice or green tea and has 3 to 4 times the antioxidant effect of red wine and green tea. Drinking pomegranate juice helps to support your immune system, protect your cells against free radical damage and improve your cardiovascular health. In other words, pomegranate juice is a delicious and wonderfully healthy way to quench your thirst.
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