Lee Swanson Research Update

Pomegranate Extract May Help Stop Inflammation

July 2008

A study with rabbits indicates that extracts from pomegranate may inhibit inflammation and positively affect chronic disease risk.

The activity of cyclooxygenase enzymes associated with inflammation, COX-1 and COX-2, were inhibited in animals fed a polyphenol-rich extract of pomegranate fruit, according to results published in the open-access Journal of Inflammation.

If the study can be repeated in humans, it offers promise for preventing chronic inflammation brought about by an over-expression or lack of control of the normal protective mechanism. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a range of conditions that are in turn linked to heart disease, osteoporosis, cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s, type 2 diabetes and arthritis.

It is in terms of arthritis that the researchers focused their study. "Consumption of pomegranate fruit extract may be of value in inhibiting inflammatory stimuli-induced cartilage breakdown and production of inflammatory mediators in arthritis," wrote the researchers, led by Tanq Haqqi from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH.

Pomegranate, a rich source of antioxidants, has been linked to improved heart health, but a growing body of science indicates the fruit may protect against prostate cancer. Studies have also reported a role in joint health by slowing cartilage loss in arthritis.

Haqqi and co-workers fed four rabbits the pomegranate extract, equivalent to 175 ml of pomegranate juice, while two rabbits given water instead acted as the controls. Blood samples were taken to measure inflammatory biomarkers and antioxidant levels.

The data showed that blood antioxidant levels were significantly higher after ingestion of the pomegranate extract, indicating the bioavailability of the antioxidants. Moreover, COX-1 and COX-2 activity was significantly reduced in the pomegranate-fed animals, compared to control, particularly for COX-2. Indeed, COX-1 activity was reduced by about seven percent following ingestion of the extract, while COX-2 activity decreased by about 26%.

While the results were promising for pomegranates, the researchers stated that additional animal studies are required, "followed by controlled clinical trials."

Journal of Inflammation Published online ahead of print.

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