A comprehensive review on neuroprotective effects of pomegranate

Abstract

Pomegranate is one of the oldest, edible fruit with high nutritional values and has been a part of Mediterranean diet since ancient times. The fruit, bark, roots and leaves of pomegranate are reported to have medicinal benefits. Pomegranate is very rich in various poly-phenols, which are probably responsible for most of the beneficial properties of the fruit. The medicinal properties include, anti-ageing, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, cardio protective, lipid-lowering, gastro protective, hepatoprotective, anti-trichomonial, anti-nociceptive, anti-diarrheal, anti-viral effects and beneficial effects against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Neuroprotective effects of Pomegranate extract are reducing accumulation of amyloid plaques in hippocampus, preventing neuronal tissue loss, modulating GABA and glutamate levels, inhibiting acetylcholine esterase and inhibiting lipid peroxidation in brain. Here we review the possible mechanisms by which pomegranate may affect neuro-degeneration, and suggest necessary translational research in this area, for the benefit of neurodegenerative patients and the society in general.