Pomegranate, which is mentioned in some verses of the Quran, is a small-seeded, delicious, and highly nutritious fruit. It is mainly cultivated in Mediterranean provinces of Turkey such as Adana, Mersin, and Muğla. Pomegranate is rich in vitamin C and can strengthen the immune system, provide energy, and has also been found to be beneficial for stomach and mouth ulcers.
Pomegranate is a delightful fruit that has even become the subject of riddles. It has a thick, red skin and is filled with seeds and pulp. While pomegranates are typically tart, there are also sweet varieties available. This fruit is highly resistant to drought and can tolerate temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius. It thrives in Mediterranean climates with mild winters and summer rainfall. It is believed to have originated in Iran and is widely grown from Afghanistan to the Himalayas. In the early 2000s, it began to be commercially cultivated in California and Arizona. In Turkey, pomegranates are extensively grown, especially in Denizli.
Side, a district of Antalya, is named after the word “nar,” which means pomegranate. Additionally, the Granada region in southern Spain also derives its name from “nar.” Pomegranate, which is used in industry as well, is consumed as food all around the world.
**What Is Pomegranate?**
Pomegranate, consisting of hundreds of small seeds, is a high-nutrient fruit that can be tart or sweet. It belongs to the Lythracea e family and can thrive in regions with a Mediterranean climate. Its resistance to high temperatures and drought has made it possible to grow pomegranates in cities such as Adana, Muğla, Antalya, and Mersin.
**Varieties of Pomegranate:**
The most preferred variety of pomegranate in both domestic and international markets is the Hicaz pomegranate. It is harvested in October and is known for its high eating quality and suitability for storage. The Caner pomegranate variety is famous for being seedless, and its skin is darker red compared to other pomegranates. It is produced for both household consumption and industrial use. The wonderful variety, suitable for juicing, has a tangy and flavorful taste.
Deve dişi pomegranate, with green or light red skin, has soft seeds and is known for its high eating quality. It is exported from Turkey to Arab countries. Another pomegranate variety produced for consumption is the esin pomegranate, although it is less suitable for storage than the Hicaz variety. Izmir çekirdeksiz pomegranate has extremely soft seeds and is known for its taste. The Izmir 23 pomegranate is pink, red, or ruby-red and is one of the sweet and soft pomegranate varieties.
**Characteristics of Pomegranate:**
Each individual pomegranate seed is like a treasure trove of health benefits. Pomegranates are rich in vitamin C and also contain vitamins B1, B2, as well as calcium and phosphorus minerals. They blossom in June and July and are harvested from October 5th to 25th. Pomegranates are roughly the size of an orange.
**Uses of Pomegranate:**
After cutting with a knife, the seeds of pomegranate can be easily emptied onto a plate and consumed with a spoon. Pomegranate is not only used as a fruit but also as pomegranate syrup, which is used for marinating meat and in salads. Additionally, pomegranate can be added to desserts like güllaç and aşure. In the absence of tomatoes, pomegranate syrup was used in Iran in the past. Pomegranate is used in various dishes in world cuisine and is not limited to sweet garnishes. It is used in jams, soups, and more.
Pomegranate is also widely used in industry. Pomegranate roots are used to obtain dye for textiles. In the fi eld of medicine, pomegranate is recommended, especially for cancer patients, due to its richness in vitamin C. Pomegranate tea can be consumed to strengthen the stomach, alleviate diarrhea, and address palpitation problems. Veterinarians use pomegranate to combat tapeworms in cattle. Regular consumption of pomegranate can reduce the risk of a heart attack and is also used for removing dental plaque.
**Benefits of Pomegranate:**
Pomegranate helps balance blood pressure and is also effective against palpitations. It provides energy and combats fatigue. This fruit strengthens the immune system and can be consumed for the treatment of gastric inflammation and mouth ulcers. It is known to inhibit the development of cancer cells. Pomegranate is also recognized for its ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. It promotes smooth skin and acts as a diuretic. Additionally, artists often use pomegranate juice to soothe their vocal
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