National Geographic : 2010 Jul
PHOTO: REBECCA HALE, NGM STAFF HEALTH Packing a Punch Pomegranates are famous for their jewel-like seeds, whose rich antioxidant stores may help prevent heart disease and certain types of cancer. But some of their most promising health benefits could dwell within their inedible rinds. A group of Kingston University researchers in London found that a mixture of pomegranate- rind extract, copper salts, and vitamin C can significantly reduce the growth of some common hospital bacteria. Declan Naughton, head of the study, says the fruit could be a new weapon in the battle against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which can cause serious skin, blood, and soft-tissue infections. Ironically, the antibiotics used to banish MRSA have spawned even heartier strains---and more people outside of hospitals are catching it. The high levels of antimicrobials in pomegran- ate rind that protect the fruit's flesh from harmful bacteria might do the same for humans, says Naughton. An ideal application, with further research, could be an ointment for cuts, abrasions, or surgical wounds. "Once something gets inside your bloodstream, it's difficult to treat, " he notes. Another potential benefit: "We don't think it would have major side effects, because we've looked to nature to show the way. " ---Cara Birnbaum The spotlight on pomegranates may shift from seeds to rind.