USE OF POMEGRANATE IN FOLK MEDICINE AND ITS ROLE IN MODERN MEDICINE

Аннотация

This article explores the use of pomegranate (Punica granatum) fruit in folk medicine. The chemical composition, medicinal properties, and benefits of various decoctions and infusions made from different parts of the pomegranate are analyzed. Based on research, the article highlights the positive effects of the pomegranate fruit on the human bodydueto itsantioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and blood-purifying properties. Keywords: Pomegranate, folk medicine, modern medicine, antimicrobial, anti- inflammatory, bloodpurification, immunity, vitamin, mineral Nature is an invaluable source for restoring and strengthening human health. Since ancient times, various plants and fruits have been used in traditional medicine. One such fruit is the pomegranate. The pomegranate is not only a delicious and nutritious fruit but has also beenrecognized sinceantiquity as a traditional remedy forvarious diseases. Historically, the pomegranate has been honored for its healing properties and referred to as the “king of fruits.” There are hundreds of varieties of pomegranate, and its fruit contains organic acids, vitamins, and antimicrobial substances. Primarily, the stem, branches, flowers, root bark, and fruit ofthepomegranate are used for medicinal purposes. In the Middle Ages, European physicians used pomegranate juice to soothe nerves. In Chinese medicine, infusions made from pomegranate flowers were used to treat dysentery and prevent tooth loosening or loss. Dried powder from the flowers was applied to various wounds. Indian physician Bhukhan used the root of the pomegranate tree to eliminate tapeworms. The fruit, peel, flower, seeds, and root of the pomegranate contain beneficial substances for the human body and are used to treat and prevent various diseases. In folk medicine, pomegranate juice and decoctions are widely used to boost immunity, purify the blood, treat gastrointestinal disorders, and resolve skin problems. Abu Ali Ibn Sina stated: "Sour pomegranate, especially itsjuice, suppresses bile. The peel, especially when burned, is a remedy for wounds. The seeds mixed with honey are useful for tooth and ear pain. This balm can also beapplied insidethe nose to 98,7:ROTCAFTCAPMI.SECNEICSLACIDEM ,5202 ,lirpA,5emuloV gro.srehsilbupcimedaca.www eliminate wounds and inflammation. Crushed seeds mixed with honey are also beneficial for oral ulcers" [1]. Pomegranate is rich in healing compounds, containing vitamins C, B1, B2, B6, B15, PP, B12, and A, as well as minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron, iodine, silicon,phosphorus, aluminum, magnesium, chromium, copper, and manganese, along with folic and ascorbic acids. There are 80 kilocalories in 100 grams of pomegranate. Its peel contains tannins, resins, and coloring agents. The fruit peel and internal membranes contain up to 28% tannins. Pomegranate helps with weight gain, increases hemoglobin, treats colds, relieves pain, alleviates heart pain, improves the function of blood vessels and the urinary tract, treats abdominal pain, regulates bowel movement and gallbladder function, combats liver weakness, and boosts theimmunesystem [2]. Picture1. Pomegranate (Punica granatum) In cases of stomach and intestinal problems, a decoction made from pomegranate peel is used to treat gastrointestinal diseases, diarrhea, and dysbacteriosis. 1 teaspoon of dried peel is added to 1 glass of water, boiled for 15 minutes. After cooling and straining, it is consumed 2–3 times a day [3]. To lower blood pressure, pomegranate juice is rich in potassium, which helps reduce blood pressure. It is recommended to drink 100–200 ml daily. To strengthen immunity, the antioxidants in pomegranate enhance the body’s defense mechanisms. It is beneficial to consume the fresh seeds of the peeled fruit. For wounds and skin diseases, a solution made from pomegranate peel has antiseptic properties and is usedtowash wounds and ulcers. For blood formation, pomegranate is rich in iron and is helpful in treating anemia. It is recommended to eat one pomegranate or drink 100 ml of juice daily. For cough and joint pain, a decoction of pomegranate peel helps reduce inflammation and relievepain. Pomegranate peel is rich in citric acid, tannins, and natural dyes. It contains 6–20% oil, 9– 12% proteins, 13–18% starch, over 20% cellulose, and 1.54–1.65% minerals. Even in cold 98,7:ROTCAFTCAPMI.SECNEICSLACIDEM ,5202 ,lirpA,5emuloV gro.srehsilbupcimedaca.www conditions, it contains a high amount of pectin. Pomegranate peel is very beneficial for the heart—it protects the heart muscle, strengthens and cleans blood vessels, lowers cholesterol, increases the number of beta-cells, and is especially useful for patients with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. It also affects cancers of the pancreas, esophagus, skin, colon, prostate, and breast. Ellagic acid found in pomegranate peel helps in cancer treatment. Pomegranate peel tea, prepared at home, helps prevent or treat serious cancers such as skin and pancrea