The Jewel of Autumn

     Long cherished for its exquisite beauty, flavor, color and health benefits, the pomegranate has been termed "royalty among fruit."  Over 8,000 years ago it was one of the first cultivated fruits, originating in Persia.  There is even speculation that it was the forbidden fruit that Eve offered to Adam in the Garden of Eden.  Its name is derived from Middle French pomme garnete, meaning seeded apple and it is sometimes referred to as a Chinese apple that grows on a deciduous shrub or small tree.


The pomegranate is a symbol of prosperity, hope and abundance in many cultures.  A Turkish tradition states that following the marriage ceremony the bride throws a pomegranate on the ground and the number of arils (seeds) that fall out indicates how many children she and her husband will have.

     


     While pomegranate juice is available year round, the Jewel of Autumn is available as a whole fruit only from September until January.  They are high in Vitamin C and potassium, a great source of fiber and low in calories.  The compound punicalagin is found only in pomegranates and is proven to benefit the heart and blood vessels.  It also lowers cholesterol and blood pressure and reduces harmful atheroscherotic plaque.  The juice is high in beneficial antioxidants which have been shown to protect against heart disease and various cancers.  It stimulates serotonin and estrogen receptors, improving symptoms of depression and increasing bone mass.

     Perhaps we should amend that old saying to "A Chinese apple a day keeps the doctor away.