Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a fruit
rich in bioactive compounds with various biological
properties that help maintain good health. In particular,
the polyphenolic compounds punicalagin, ellagic acid,
urolithins and gallic acid are among the main molecules
with antioxidant potential identified in this fruit;
that is, these compounds have the ability to prevent
cellular alterations caused by oxidative stress and/or
induce the body’s own antioxidant response to protect
cells. As a result, numerous scientific studies have
emerged in the last decade, focused on recognizing
the pharmacological properties of these molecules, to
prevent the development and progression of diseases
in which oxidative stress plays a fundamental role.
The objectives of this review are: 1) to point out the
importance of antioxidants obtained from the diet
and in particular those obtained from pomegranate,
2) to highlight the beneficial effects of ellagitannins,
ellagic acid, urolithins and gallic acid against various
pathologies, and 3) recognize that despite their potential
as therapeutic agents, further research in humans is
required to promote their use in the clinic.
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