White pomegranates are a sweet and juicy variety of the fruit, high in fiber, vitamins B5 and C, and potassium. The seeds and arils are eaten raw or dried, and may have health benefits. White pomegranates are easy to grow and store well, but may interfere with some medications.
The white pomegranate has pale, pinkish-white skin and very pale white flesh, and is an especially sweet and juicy variety of the fruit. Like other pomegranate varieties, it is high in fiber, a good source of vitamins B5 and C, and potassium. White pomegranates are also a good ornamental choice for gardeners.
Edible portions of a pomegranate include the seeds and the surrounding protective coating, known as the aril. Use a knife to break apart the pomegranate and separate the arils from the fruit membrane. The easiest and least messy way to do this is to soak the pomegranate in a bowl of water. The arils will sink to the bottom while the membrane will float to the surface. The seeds and arils are then eaten raw, either as a snack or as an addition to a salad. They can also be dried for a later snack.
The sweet taste of white pomegranate makes it more appealing to many than the tart taste of other types of pomegranate. The more pleasant taste is a boon for people interested in eating pomegranates and drinking pomegranate juice for health reasons. Though studies are ongoing, researchers believe that pomegranates and pomegranate juice may reduce the risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, and even slow the growth of prostate cancer and dental plaque. Pomegranate appears to contain antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Anyone who eats white pomegranates or drinks white pomegranate juice for health should carefully examine their medications. Pomegranates can interfere with the metabolism of some medications, such as the blood thinner Coumadin, and medications used to treat high blood pressure and high cholesterol. People interested in pomegranate juice for health benefits should look for no added sugar, 100% juice.
White pomegranates are relatively easy to grow in the right climate. Two white pomegranate cultivars are Muscat White and Paper Shell. Both are sweet and produce well.
Pomegranate trees are long-lived and drought tolerant. They do well in a variety of soils. The fruit is ready to harvest about seven months after flowering. When harvesting, use fruit cutters to cut the fruit near the base. Any stems left on the fruit can damage it during storage.
The fruit does well in storage, becoming tastier during this time. They can remain in storage for up to seven months in cool temperatures and high humidity. High temperatures or humidity levels above 95 percent drastically shorten the shelf life of pomegranates.
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