The pomegranate, the fruit of prosperity and health not only on New Year’s Eve

The pomegranate, with its hard skin and fleshy seeds, is a fruit rich in symbolism and tradition, especially during the end-of-year holidays.

In many cultures it is associated with wishes for prosperity, luck and renewal. In Brazil, pomegranates are especially known for being part of New Year’s Eve rituals.

Superstition says that when you eat the seeds at midnight on New Year’s Eve, each one represents a month of prosperity. Many people still keep three seeds in their wallet throughout the year, as an amulet to attract money and luck. And, to get into the Christmas spirit, let’s find out something more about this fruit!

Native to the Middle East and Asia Minor, the pomegranate was cultivated in Iran as early as 2000 BC. For the Greeks the fruit was a symbol of love and fertility; for the Jews it represented the hope of a prosperous new year; and for the Romans it was linked to wealth and order.

These cultural associations reflect the belief in their power to bring good energy, especially at the beginning of a new cycle.

But the pomegranate is not just a symbol of luck. It is also one of the healthiest fruits on the planet, being considered a superfood for its therapeutic properties and health benefits.

The fruit is rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, especially punicalagins, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and therefore prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s and obesity.

Additionally, pomegranate is beneficial for the skin, helping to combat the effects of premature aging and lightening spots such as melasma, thanks to its high concentration of antioxidants and vitamin A.

Pomegranate is also beneficial for cardiovascular health, as it can reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and protect against the oxidation of cholesterol particles, an important factor in the development of heart disease.

Studies also suggest that consuming pomegranates may help reduce blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.

Furthermore, pomegranate has properties that help improve physical performance. Rich in dietary nitrates, the fruit can increase blood flow and delay fatigue during exercise, making it an ally for athletes and people looking to improve their performance.

It also helps fight bacterial and fungal infections, as well as contributing to the treatment of oral diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis.

Another interesting benefit of pomegranate is its action in the fight against cancer. Laboratory research suggests that pomegranate extract may inhibit the reproduction of breast and prostate cancer cells, slowing tumor growth.

Its juice is traditionally used to treat colic, intestinal diarrhea and sore throat, as well as being an excellent natural remedy for the health of the digestive system.

Pomegranate is rich in mineral salts such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, calcium and iron, essential for the correct functioning of the body and the prevention of various diseases. Although human studies are still limited, preliminary results are promising.

However, like all fruits, pomegranate consumption should be moderate. Excessive consumption can lead to intoxication, causing symptoms such as dizziness and vision changes.

In addition to all these health benefits, pomegranate can be consumed in several ways. The seeds can be eaten plain, used in juices or added to creative dishes, such as hummus, tabbouleh and muhammara, typical of Arab cuisine.

These recipes are a healthy way to enjoy pomegranates, without losing the symbolism of prosperity that accompanies them during the New Year celebrations.

Although the seed ritual is more common in the new year, the pomegranate also has a special meaning on the Day of Kings, January 6, when many take the opportunity to perform the same ritual, with the same intent to attract good energy into the new year. year that begins.

Those who were unable to perform the rite on New Year’s Eve can still do it on the commemorative date, thus ensuring good luck and prosperity for the whole year.

The pomegranate is a fruit rich in meanings and benefits. It symbolizes luck, prosperity, love and fertility, and its medicinal properties make it an important ally for health.

Whether in your New Year’s Eve ritual or as a healthy ingredient in your daily diet, pomegranate is a great option for those looking for a new year full of good energy and health.