Pomegranate (Punica granatum) and Cardiovascular Protection

Ancient and Traditional Foods, Plants, Herbs and Spices used in Cardiovascular Health and Disease
2023.0

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels that include cerebrovascular and coronary diseases. Adequate consumption of plant-based foods significantly reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Among these, pomegranate, a rich source of bioactive polyphenol compounds (ellagitannins, gallotannins and flavonoids), some alkaloids, triterpenes, sterols, unsaturated fatty acids, reduces serum TC, LDL-C, and TG levels and increases HDL-C. Pomegranate juice concentrate increases eNOS expression and reduces inflammatory processes. One of the compounds present in the juice, ellagic acid, reduces the risk of hypertension and therefore of cardiovascular diseases, especially in obesity and diabetes, since it reduces blood pressure to normal levels. They are undoubtedly compounds with great potential to improve cardiovascular health; however, there is still little information on the mechanisms of action of each of the compounds that can work as therapeutics or as adjuvants, as well as the appropriate doses, since the information existing shows a great diversity of doses tested. © 2024 selection and editorial matter, Victor R. Preedy, Vinood B. Patel, and Rajkumar Rajendram.

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