Pomegranate Peel: A Natural Shield for Your Immune System
Pomegranates, with their ruby-red seeds, have been cherished for their delicious taste and health benefits for centuries. But did you know that the peel of this fruit, often discarded, is a treasure trove of natural medicine?
At The Wellness Company, we are committed to providing our customers with products backed by solid science, ensuring our community gets the best of what nature has to offer. That’s why – based on recent research outlining the effects of pomegranate peel on the COVID-19 spike protein – we’ve included pomegranate peel in our innovative new product, Kids Spike Support.
Pomegranate Peel's Blocks COVID Spike Protein
Recent studies have shown that pomegranate peel may have the potential to block COVID-19 viral replication and in turn support immune function. Before delving into the research underlying this claim, let's discuss exactly how the COVID-19 virus infects our cells.
Imagine the virus as a tiny, circular invader with spikes on its surface. These spikes, scientifically known as the "S-glycoprotein," are like keys that the virus uses to enter our body's cells. The spike protein is not only responsible for the initial infection but has also been linked to the lingering symptoms characteristic of "long-COVID."
The exciting news is that according to a recent study, the polyphenols in pomegranate peel appear to act like a shield, blocking these spikes and preventing the virus from entering our cells. While the studies directly demonstrating this effect were in vitro (within a cell culture in a lab), rather than in vivo (in humans), the fact remains that pomegranate peel has mechanistic potential to blunt viral replication and lessen the impact of COVID-19 infection.
Antiinflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
Pomegranate peel doesn't only inhibit viral infection. It’s also renowned for its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are like the body's defense team, protecting cells from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. This damage, known as oxidative stress, plays a role in various chronic diseases, and is a hallmark of the aging process itself.
Additionally, pomegranate polyphenols, especially ellagitannins and ellagic acid, modulate immune cell activity, regulate the secretion of cytokines (proteins integral to cell signaling), and mediate production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. These actions are all crucial in maintaining a balanced immune response, especially in the context of an infection like COVID-19.
In essence, pomegranate peel is not just a barrier against viruses; it's also a shield against inflammation and oxidative stress in general, fortifying our body's defenses on multiple fronts.
The Bottom Line
Nature's bounty is vast and varied, and pomegranate peel is undoubtedly one of its hidden gems. While many of us have enjoyed the juicy seeds of this fruit, recent research has unveiled the hidden potential of its peel. In an attempt to create a product with comprehensive immune support, we at TWC have incorporated pomegranate peel into our Signature Series Kids Spike Support Formula. This formula not only boasts the benefits of pomegranate peel but also includes other powerful natural ingredients like Bromelain and Dandelion Extract which offer wrap-around immune support.
So, whether your goal is to strengthen your immune defenses, reduce inflammation, or simply to cover your family’s bases and embrace a more natural approach to well-being, consider the pomegranate peel an ally in your journey towards wellness.
References
Suručić, R., Travar, M., Petković, M., Tubić, B., Stojiljković, M. P., Grabež, M., ... & Škrbić, R. (2021). Pomegranate peel extract polyphenols attenuate the SARS-CoV-2 S-glycoprotein binding ability to ACE2 Receptor: In silico and in vitro studies. Bioorganic chemistry, 114, 105145.
Alexova, R., Alexandrova, S., Dragomanova, S., Kalfin, R., Solak, A., Mehan, S., ... & Tancheva, L. (2023). Anti-COVID-19 Potential of Ellagic Acid and Polyphenols of Punica granatum L. Molecules, 28(9), 3772.
