Within its beautiful, crimson skin are hidden hundreds of ruby gems, bursting with delicious, nutritious antioxidant-rich juice.

Pomegranate juice has been shown to help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to the heart, and may even slow the progression of some cancers. Currently there are seven government-funded studies underway in the U.S., evaluating the role of pomegranate in treating prostate cancer. This is particularly notable considering that, back in 2002, only approximately 5% of Americans had even tasted pomegranates!

Enjoy the health-promoting properties of this remarkable juice in new ways:

Refreshing Pomegranate Spritzer

• In a saucepan, heat 1 cup pomegranate juice to just under the boil; turn off heat • Mix in 1-1/2 teaspoons arrowroot powder (dissolve the powder in a little water first, to make it into a liquid) • Add 1-2 Tablespoons of maple syrup, to taste.

Add 2 Tablespoons of this to 12 ounces sparkling water for a refreshing pomegranate spritzer!

Alternatively, try adding 2 Tbsp. to your smoothie to boost its antioxidant punch, or mix 2 Tbsp. with 1/2 cup olive oil, 1 clove garlic, dash of lemon juice, and a pinch of sea salt for a tasty salad dressing.

Anyway you serve it up, pomegranate is worth a place in your healthy lifestyle!

- recipes from the National Geographic Guide to Medicinal Herbs