Ah, the pomegranate. The jewel of the fruit world. The OG of antioxidants. The fruit that’s as tedious to eat as it is delicious. We all know the drill: you spend 15 minutes prying those ruby-red arils out, eat them in three, and then stare at the leftover skin wondering, What am I supposed to do with this? Compost it?
Well, hold onto your biodegradable bins, because I’m here to tell you that pomegranate skins are more than just fruit peels - they’re the underdog superfood you never knew you needed.
Pomegranate Arils: Nature’s Pop Rocks
Before we get to the skin, let’s give a quick shoutout to the arils.
- Antioxidants for Days: Pomegranates are brimming with powerful antioxidants, such as punicalagins and anthocyanins, which help combat free radicals in the body. These compounds have shown to support skin health, and reduce inflammation.
- Heart Hero: Studies suggest they help lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol. Basically, they’re like the personal trainer for your cardiovascular system.
- Immune Booster: Thanks to being packed with vitamin C, these seeds are ready to help you take on flu season like a champ.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Pomegranates contain compounds that help reduce inflammation, making them beneficial for conditions like arthritis and other chronic inflammatory diseases.
Pomegranate Skin: The Sleeper Superfood
Everyone overlooks them, but they’re secretly full of magic. Packed with polyphenols, tannins, and vitamin C, they are basically the wellness equivalent of a Swiss Army knife or Leatherman. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic and herbal medicine, pomegranate skins are rich in:
- Antioxidants: Even more than the arils.
- Gut Health: Tannins in the skin can help soothe your stomach and promote healthy digestion.
- Anti-Everything: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal. If this skin could go on Tinder, its bio would just read: "Here to protect you from bad vibes and infections."
So, what can you actually do with pomegranate skins besides feel guilty about throwing them away? Two words: tea and powder.
Pomegranate Skin Tea: Your New Favorite Sip
Not to be dramatic, but this tea could change your life (or at least your mornings). Here’s how to make it:
- Prep the Skins: Preferably use organic pomegranates and rinse skin.
- Dry the Skins: Air-dry them in the sun (if you're not in a rush) or toss them in a dehydrator/oven (if you’re impatient).
- Grind or Blend: Break up into small pieces or blend into a fine powder using a spice grinder or high-speed blender.
- Brew It Up: Simmer in boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain, sip, and enjoy.
Pro Tip: It will pack a punch (aka those tannins), so we like to add a little maple syrup.
Superfood Powder: The Upgrate You Didn't Know You Needed
Making pomegranate skin powder is as easy as 1-2-blend:
- Dehydrate the skins (see above).
- Blitz them into a fine powder.
- Sprinkle on everything from smoothies to oatmeal to pancakes.
Pro Tip: Break up the dried skin before blending, or better yet, cut into smaller sections prior to drying.
Why Bother With the Skin?
Great question. The short answer: because you’re thrifty and fabulous.
The long answer:
- Waste Not, Want Not: Reduce food waste and feel good about it.
- DIY Superfood: Who needs overpriced powders from the health store when you’ve got pomegranate skins at home?
- Health Perks: See everything I just shared about antioxidants, tannins, and vitamin C.
Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about turning kitchen scraps into something beneficial for your body
Pomegranates are more than just a delicious fruit; they are a complete package of health benefits, from their jewel-like arils to their versatile skins. Next time you crack one open, don’t stop at the arils. Give the skin some love, too. Whether you’re brewing tea, making powder, or just feeling wildly resourceful, pomegranate skins are here to elevate your health game.
So go ahead, be the person enjoying pomegranate skin tea at brunch. Your friends and family might tease you for being a little extra, but your body will be quietly applauding your genius.
-Nicole
