Pomegranate for antioxidant power

The luscious pomegranate originated in Persia and is now widely grown in China, India and here in Australia. Slice through the thin skin and you'll find ruby-coloured segments dripping with sweet juice. Pomegranates are also a symbol of fertility and abundance and are sacred in many religions. They are referred to in the Koran as one of the fruits that grow in the garden of paradise. Traditionally used to treat diarrhoea and intestinal parasites, pomegranates contain vitamin C and have exceptionally high levels of the polyphenol ellagitannin, a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Studies have found pomegranates reduce atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), a factor in heart disease, as well as increasing the liver's ability to detoxify free radicals.