The pomegranate is native of Iran and the Himalayan region in northern India where it was found hundreds of years ago. It is derived from a beautiful flowering tree that is typically 12 to 16 feet in height. These trees can live for decades upon decades, and some in Europe have survived for more than 200 years.  The product of these plants is a fruit with a semihard shell. Packed inside are edible juicy sacs. The entire fruit is often used as a decorative piece in fruit bowls and as garnish.

Pomegranates are typically used in fresh juice, to make jellies, sorbets, cold or hot sauces, and to flavor pastries. Pomegranate syrup is sold commercially as grenadine. The juice can also be made into a wine. 

Benefits aside from the beauty of this fruit include its wide array of Vitamins and antioxidants. Pomegranates are nutrient dense fruits that provide essential nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Vitamin A. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that has many functions, such as promotion of healthy skin and gums and the ability to increase iron absorption. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant that helps protect cells in the body from damaging compounds.  Vitamin A is essential for normal vision, gene expression, reproduction, embryonic development, growth, and immune function.¹⁴ In addition, the ruby red-coloured pomegranate juice provides other beneficial antioxidants, including polyphenols, tannins, and anthocyanins.¹³