Dwarf pomegranate (Punica granatum var. nana), characteristics, generalities and preclinical studies of an ornamental plant with potential health benefits.

Abstract

Punica granatum has been extensively studied in recent years in different fields of science, especially in health, where we can find thousands of studies on its beneficial effects; however, most of these studies have been carried out on commercial varieties, leaving aside exotic varieties such as dwarf pomegranate (P. granatum var. nana), which is a variety known throughout the world for its ornamental use. This peculiarity has reduced the possibility of being studied, especially in health. The objective of this narrative review focuses on showing the characteristics, generalities and preclinical studies that have been found on this inedible ornamental pomegranate. The characteristics, uses of the pomegranate in traditional medicine, and in vivo and in vitro studies of biological anticancer, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, antibacterial, antifungal, anthelmintic, and anti-inflammatory activities were found in various parts of this fruit, as well as important phytochemical components that support these biological activities. The information obtained indicates that it is necessary to deepen the study of this variety because the studies that have been carried out are still scarce despite being an easy plant to grow. It is still unknown if the biological activities that they possess have an effect on human health, since there are no clinical studies in this regard, and it is also unknown if these are of lesser or greater magnitude compared to edible varieties.