The Polyphenolics and Health Effects of Pomegranate

Sonya Titin Nge*  -  Master of Biology Program, Satya Wacana Christian University Jl. Diponegoro 52-60 Salatiga, Jawa Tengah 50711, Indonesia
Martanto Martosupono  -  Health Science Faculty of Satya Wacana Christian University, Indonesia
Ferry Fredy Karwur  -  Biology Faculty of Satya Wacana Christian University, Indonesia

(*) Corresponding Author

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a useful fruit which mostly consumed as fresh fruit and can also be used as a various of processed products. Reports proved pomegranate were beneficial to health. Polyphenolic compounds in pomegranate especially ellagitannin (hydrolyzed), anthocyanins, gallotannin,and ellagic acid can maintain oral hygiene, healthy skin from the effects of free radicals caused by UV radiation, has the ability to synthesize cholesterol, destroying free radicals in the human vascular system and can prevent prostate cancer. In vitro and in vivo test has shown the fruit is acting as anti diabetic drug, and hypolipidemic, anticarcinogenic, antibacterial, anti inflamation, and antiviral. This review presenting an overview about the bioactive compound contents, physiological and health function of the fruit.

Keywords: Polyphenol content; Pomegranate seed; Pomegranate peel; Bioactive compound

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