ΡΟΙΑ
Punica granatum
(Pomegranate)
Botanical info:
Pomegranate is a multi-stemmed deciduous (evergreen in tropical areas) shrub or small tree that grows to 5 to 10 m high, with numerous spiny branches. Pomegranates are cultivated in the Mediterranean Basin, central Asia, and south Asia for its fruit, which is typically in season from October to February. The wild ancestor of the pomegranate is unknown, but its closest wild relative has been found in Socotra Island. Flowering in July and August.
Hippocratic legacy:
a. In Affections:
a. Pomegranate is described as tonic and phlegmatic, with the seed constipating, without it laxative.
b. Is recommended as a refrigerant poultice for wounds.
b. In Nature of Women pomegranate is described:
a. As anti-vomiting and uterus hemostatic.
b. Against vulval irritations, and ulcers.
c. In Diseases of Women 2 pomegranate is recommended:
a. Against leucorrhea.
Other uses:
Pomegranates are used in baking, cooking, juice blends, meal garnishes, smoothies, and alcoholic beverages, such as cocktails and wine. The seeds are demulcent. The fruit is a mild astringent and refrigerant in some fevers, and especially in biliousness, and the bark is used to remove tapeworm. The rind is used in diarrhea and chronic dysentery, often combined with opium. It is used as an injection in leucorrhea, as a gargle in sore throat in its early stages, and in powder for intermittent fevers. The flowers have similar properties. A decoction of the bark is used as a taenicide.