Pomegranates are one of nature’s super fruits. Originating in the region that encompasses Iran to India, the pomegranate is now found all over the world. It has been used in East Asian Medicine (EAM) since 114 BCE. And while the dried rind, also known as Shi Liu Pi, is the part most used in herbal formulas, the rest of the fruit has many health benefits too.
Cracking open a pomegranate and plucking out the tiny, juicy and nutritious seeds can turn into a crimson mess. The benefits you reap from chowing down on the pomegranate seeds however, is well worth the mess. Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants. In fact, they contain up to three times as many antioxidants as both green tea and red wine combined. In addition to antioxidants, this tart fruit is also great for heart related ailments, diabetes, osteoarthritis and stomach disorders. Pomegranates can be consumed in many forms other than just the seeds, including juice, nectar, syrup, concentrate or supplement.
The pomegranate is warm in nature, with a sweet, sour and astringent taste. It can help to generate fluids, as well as detoxify the body. The seeds (arils) are extremely nutritious. For those with poor digestive absorption, swallowing the seeds may be too harsh on the gut. But for those with a strong gastrointestinal system, eating the seeds shouldn’t be an issue.
From an allopathic view, the pomegranate is frequently used to help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, support brain function, improve gut health due to the fiber being ingested and improving skin health. The pomegranate helps promote urinary and kidney health by helping to regulate oxalates, calcium and phosphates in both the urine and blood. Emerging studies are also showing that pomegranates can be helpful in the prevention of some cancers, especially breast, prostate and colon cancer.
Shi Liu Pi, the dried peel of the pomegranate, is used most frequently in EAM. It is used in formulas to stop diarrhea, treat rheumatoid arthritis and stop painful spasms in the legs. Shi Liu Pi is helpful for people who have too much cold in their body. Balance between yin and yang is a key health concept in EAM. Those who have too much cold in their body are said to either have a yin excess, because yin is cold in nature, or a yang deficiency, because yang is hot in nature. Depending on your condition, Shi Liu Pi can help restore a harmonious balance between yin and yang.
Shi Liu Pi enters the lung and spleen meridians supporting the immune system, while also moisturizing and astringing the skin, which helps with conditions like eczema and acne. Shi Liu Pi also helps expel parasites, while helping soothe mouth and throat ulcers.
Pomegranates are truly remarkable fruits that offer an impressive array of health benefits supported by scientific research. Rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals, pomegranates provide more than just delicious flavor, they deliver meaningful health promoting properties that can support your well being in multiple ways. And this is the perfect time to partake in this yummy fruit, because they are in season right now. So add them to your salads or eat the seeds as a daily snack.
If you’re having any of the aforementioned health issues, consider East Asian Medicine ad possibly incorporating herbal formulas that include Shi Liu Pi. We’re here to help you through all of your health journeys.