Pomegranate Research Articles

Gastroprotective Efficacy of North African Medicinal Plants: A Review on Their Therapeutic Potential for Peptic Ulcers

ABSTRACTPeptic ulcer disease remains a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder worldwide. Current treatments often have limitations, sparking interest in alternative therapies from medicinal plants. This review examines the gastroprotective potential of 54 North African medicinal plants against peptic ulcers. An extensive literature search was conducted, focusing on plants with preclinical and clinical evidence of anti‐ulcer efficacy and documented use in North African traditional medicine. The review identified several promising plant species, such as licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), olive (Olea europaea), pomegranate (Punica granatum), Aloe vera, and black seed (Nigella sativa), along with their bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids. These compounds exhibit gastroprotective properties through multiple mechanisms, such as enhancing the gastric mucosal barrier, inhibiting acid secretion, displaying antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects, promoting ulcer healing, and combating Helicobacter pylori infection. The evidence presented includes in vitro assays, animal models, and some clinical studies. While many of the 53 plants reviewed demonstrated significant anti‐ulcer effects compared to standard drugs, further clinical research is needed to establish efficacy and safety in humans. The synergistic actions of phytochemical mixtures in medicinal plant extracts likely contribute to their therapeutic potential. This review highlights the role these North African medicinal plants may play in the prevention and treatment of peptic ulcers and identifies promising candidates for further research and development of evidence‐based botanical therapies.

Development of a Pomegranate Fruit Disease Detection and Classification Model using Deep Learning

Background: India’s economy heavily relies on agriculture, which provides a living for a significant portion of the nation’s population. Agriculture in India faces several challenges, including fruit diseases. Pomegranate cultivation is widespread across various states in India, with Maharashtra, Karnataka Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu being major pomegranate-producing states. Fruit disease detection and classification play a significant part in refining crop yield: water scarcity, soil degradation, outdated farming techniques and the impact of climate change. Farmer suicides are a distressing issue, often linked to financial burdens, crop failures and debt. Manual disease detection methods are labor-intensive, time-consuming and prone to errors. Furthermore, understanding the data usually requires the knowledge of qualified specialists. These restrictions may make it more difficult to detect diseases promptly and increase the chance that the disease will spread across the flock, which could have dangerous results. Methods: In this paper, we use the PomeNetV2 Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) architecture and also examine 4 diseases of pomegranate fruit with names: Alternaria, Anthracnose, Bacterial Blight, Cercospora and Healthy. We used a proposed dataset of 5099 pomegranate fruit disease images. We compared the results of the proposed pomegranate fruit disease classification method with those of existing works. Result: Based on our experimental findings, the suggested framework outperforms all other state-of-the-art models with an accuracy of 99.02% for 75 epochs in identifying healthy and diseased pomegranate fruit.

Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Mechanism of Color Formation in the Peel of an Evergreen Pomegranate Cultivar 'Danruo No.1' During Fruit Development.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is an ancient fruit crop that has been cultivated worldwide and is known for its attractive appearance and functional metabolites. Fruit color is an important index of fruit quality, but the color formation pattern in the peel of evergreen pomegranate and the relevant molecular mechanism is still unknown. In this study, the contents of pigments including anthocyanins, carotenoids, and chlorophyll in the peel of 'Danruo No. 1' pomegranate fruit during three developmental stages were measured, and RNA-seq was conducted to screen key genes regulating fruit color formation. The results show that pomegranate fruit turned from green to red during development, with a dramatic increase in a* value, indicating redness and anthocyanins concentration, and a decrease of chlorophyll content. Moreover, carotenoids exhibited a decrease-increase accumulation pattern. Through RNA-seq, totals of 30, 18, and 17 structural genes related to anthocyanin biosynthesis, carotenoid biosynthesis and chlorophyll metabolism were identified from differentially expressed genes (DEGs), respectively. Transcription factors (TFs) such as MYB, bHLH, WRKY and AP2/ERF were identified as key candidates regulating pigment metabolism by K-means analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). The results provide an insight into the theory of peel color formation in evergreen pomegranate fruit.

Utilizing pomegranate extracts for enhancing yogurt quality and preservation

As consumers become increasingly conscious of synthetic preservatives, the demand for natural antioxidant and antibacterial agents is rising. This study investigates the potential of pomegranate (Punica granatum) extracts to control yogurt spoilage. Methanolic and ethanolic extracts of pomegranate peel, seed, and leaf were analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity, and inhibitory effects on ‘yogurt starter strains’ and selected food-related bacteria (Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus sciuri, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhi, and Shigella flexneri). Yogurt samples treated with pomegranate extracts were stored at 4 °C for 28 days. Sensory evaluation was performed on fresh yogurt samples. Physicochemical properties (pH, titratable acidity (TTA), and antioxidant activity) and microbiological changes (aerobic plate count (APC), coliform count, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) count, and total yeast and mold count (TYMC)) were examined weekly. Among the extracts tested, methanolic and ethanolic extracts of peel had the highest TPC (603 and 576.9 mg GAE/g) and the strongest antioxidant activity with the lowest IC50 (141.8 and 183.43 µg/mL). Overall, pomegranate peel, seed, and leaf extracts inhibited foodborne bacteria more effectively than probiotic strains, indicating significant antibacterial potential against spoilage microorganisms. Based on a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test, ethanolic pomegranate extracts were incorporated into lab-made yogurt at 8 mg/mL. Throughout the storage period, all yogurt samples maintained a standard pH (≤ 4.6) and TTA (> 0.5 %). Yogurt fortified with pomegranate peel and leaf extracts exhibited greater antioxidant activity and a significantly lower aerobic plate count while retaining LAB probiotic levels (≥ 106 CFU/g), ensuring safety for consumption (TYMC ≤ 102 CFU/g) and acceptability in terms of five selected quality attributes. Consequently, pomegranate peel and leaf extracts present a promising natural alternative to potassium sorbate in yogurt preservation, maintaining probiotic properties without compromising quality.

The Nephroprotective Effect of Punica granatum Peel Extract on LPS-Induced Acute Kidney Injury

Sepsis is an exaggerated immune response resulting from systemic inflammation, which can damage tissues and organs. Acute kidney injury has been detected in at least one-third of patients with sepsis. Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury increases the risk of a secondary infection. Rapid diagnosis and appropriate initiation of antibiotics can significantly reduce mortality and morbidity. However, microorganisms are known to develop resistance to antibiotics. Estimations indicate that the annual casualties caused by microbial resistance will surpass cancer fatalities by 2050. The prevalence of bacterial infections and their growing antibiotic resistance has brought immediate attention to the search for novel treatments. Plant-derived supplements contain numerous bioactive components with therapeutic potential against a variety of conditions, including infections. Punica granatum peel is rich in phenolic compounds. The purpose of this study was to determine the anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties of P. granatum peel extract (PGPE) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute kidney injury. Experimental groups were Control, LPS (10 mg/kg LPS, intraperitoneally), PGPE100, and PGPE300 (100 and 300 mg/mL PGPE via oral gavage, respectively, for 7 days). According to biochemical results, serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr) and C-reactive protein (CRP), kidney tissue thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels significantly decreased in the PGPE groups compared to the LPS group. Histopathological and immunohistochemical findings revealed that toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) level and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) expression increased in the LPS group compared to the Control group. In addition, the anti-Gram-negative activity showed a dose-dependent effect on Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with the agar well diffusion method and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). The MIC value was remarkable, especially on A. baumannii. We conclude that PGPE has the potential to generate desirable anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects on LPS-induced acute kidney injury in rats.

Medicinal plants used in the treatment of infectious diseases in the state of Paraíba, Brazil

Infectious diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganisms, mainly bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi, and represent a threat to public health. In the state of Paraíba, Brazil, several plant species are widely used in traditional medicine to treat infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms. From this perspective, the present study aimed to carry out a bibliographic survey of plants used in the treatment of infectious diseases by local communities and to identify the species that have already been investigated in clinical trials. The scientific documents were retrieved from different databases. A total of 31 species distributed in 22 families are used against infections by traditional communities in different municipalities in Paraíba. However, only 8 species have had their herbal products evaluated in clinical trials. Mouthwashes containing Aloe vera, Anacardium occidentale and Punica granatum have been targeted for dental applications. Considering the urgency in developing broad-spectrum antimicrobials, it is recommended that new randomized clinical trials be developed to investigate the traditional uses of other medicinal plants against infectious diseases reported in this study.

Review of Pharmacological and Medicinal Uses of Punica granatum

Review of Pharmacological and Medicinal Uses of Punica granatum

A Natural Approach to the Prevention and Treatment of Gingivitis and Periodontitis: A Review of Pomegranate’s Bioactive Properties

(1) Background: This systematic review explores the bioactive properties of Punica granatum (pomegranate) and its potential applications in the prevention and treatment of gingivitis, periodontitis, and other oral diseases. (2) Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on pomegranate and oral diseases. Inclusion criteria included studies evaluating the effects of pomegranate on oral health, while exclusion criteria eliminated non-peer-reviewed and non-English articles. This review aims to assess the efficacy of pomegranate extracts as a natural alternative to synthetic pharmaceuticals in oral health care. A structured search strategy included key terms such as “pomegranate”, “oral health”, “gingivitis”, and “periodontitis”. A total of 125 relevant references were reviewed to identify the most pertinent findings. (3) Results: The results indicate that pomegranate extracts have demonstrated efficacy in reducing plaque, inhibiting harmful oral microorganisms, and promoting overall oral health. Furthermore, clinical studies highlight the potential of pomegranate-based products, such as mouthwashes and gels, as viable alternatives to conventional pharmaceuticals, particularly in resource-limited settings. However, the review also notes the need for further research, particularly in the form of clinical trials, to establish optimal formulations and long-term safety. (4) Conclusions: Pomegranate presents a promising, natural solution for preventing and treating gingivitis and periodontitis. Further studies should focus on long-term effects and clinical efficacy.

Morphological and molecular diversity analysis vis-a-vis phylogenetic correlation among pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) varieties

Abstract Identification of different pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) genotypes using morphological descriptors and further substantiated through molecular means is essential for a breeding program. Characterization using molecular markers has an advantage over its morphological counterpart due to its low expense, quick and reliable results, and the requirement of less sophisticated equipment. In this study, eight different pomegranate cultivars were characterized based on their morphological and molecular characters in sub-tropical regions between 2018 and 2019. Morphological experiments were conducted in a randomized block design replicated thrice for each cultivar, whereas RAPD markers were employed for molecular studies. Principal component analysis revealed significant morphological variation (79.61%) among the cultivars. A high level of polymorphism, similar to PCA, was observed with RAPD analysis (80.49%). Some discrepancies between morphological and molecular results were noted in UPGMA cluster analysis. However, eight primers (total = 41) distinctively separated the Bhagwa variety from others, with the maximum similarity coefficient value (ca. 0.54) and superior fruit quality distinguished in PCA analysis with the maximum mean Euclidean distance (ca. 16). Hence, RAPD markers could be used along with morphological markers for a quick screening of germplasms in further crop improvement programs.

New host plant records of rugose spiralling whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin (Hymenoptera: Sternorrhyncha: Aleyrodidae) in diverse habitats

The current study focused on assessing the prevalence of invasive whitefly infestation in diverse habitats in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. The study revealed the presence of Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin, specifically in Punica granatum, Ficus religiosa, Ficus benghalensis, Borassus flabellifer, Cordia myxa, Pennisetum purpureum, Azadirachta indica and Citrus limon during the survey conducted in 2023–24. This infestation of Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin with different host plants marks the first documented occurrence of this novel invasive whitefly species affecting India. These findings highlight the need for further research and management strategies to address the threats posed by this invasive pest.

The Effect of Aqueous and Alcoholic Extracts of Punica granatum L. Pericarp on Hemolysin Production of several Bacterial species

Four local hemolysin producer bacterial isolates were selected, tow of them gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli ,Pseudomonas aeruginosa ) and the other two were gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus , Bacillus cereus ). Minimum inhibitory concentration of the aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Punica granatum L. pericarp were determined towards the four bacterial isolates ,results obtaind showed that MICs of the aqueous extract were 200 mg/ml for E .coli and P. aeruginosa isolates while were 5 mg/ml and 2 mg/ml for B. cereus, S. aureus , respectively The MICs for the ethanolic extract were 50 mg/ml , 20 mg/ml ,1 mg/ml ,0.5 mg/ml for E. coli ,P. aeruginosa ,B. cereus ,S. aureus , respectively. The effect of Sub-MICs of the aqueous and alcoholic extracts on hemolysin production was investigated , both extracts had a suppressing effect on hemolysin production by E. coli ,P. aeruginosa ,while both extract had an inhibitory effect on hemolysin production by S. aureus and B . cereus isolates

In-vitro scientific validation of anti-inflammatory activity of Punica granatum L. on Leukemia monocytic cell line

Background: The induction of the inflammatory cascade results in the production of a number of inflammatory mediators, including prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), nitric oxide (NO), and proinflammatory cytokines like TNF-, IL-, and IL-6. This study examined the cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory properties of a methanolic crude extract of Punica granatum L. peel (PPM) on monocytic leukaemia cell line (THP-1). Materials and methods: The PPM along with Quercetin as reference was used to assess the cytotoxic effect on THP-1 cells and describe its effect on pro-inflammatory cytokines such as COX-2, TNF-α, IL-6 against cancer cell line by flow cytometry. Results: The percentage of viable cells significantly decreased which correlates to non-toxicity whereas quercetin was found to be highly toxic, the IC50 could not be calculated because of drug precipitation. There was a significant decrease in the expressions of inflammatory cytokines upon pre-treatment of the cells with PPM prior to LPS stimulation. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that no cytotoxicity was observed after the treatment of THP-1 cells with PPM (25-400 µg/ml), but at higher concentration (400µg/ml), the cell viability decreased to 84% and attenuated the expression level of inflammatory cytokines. The inhibitory effect of the extract on pro-inflammatory factors production may provide a theoretical source on upcoming treatment of inflammation. Keywords: Punica granatum L; Monocytic leukaemia cell line; cytotoxicity; anti-inflammation.

Assessment of the impact of microwave roasting on nutrient content, lipid profile, and oxidative stability of pomegranate seed oil

The pomegranate, Punica granatum L. (Punicaceae), stands as one of the most widely employed oils in the cosmetic industry. However, due to its higher content of conjugated linoleic acid, its susceptibility to oxidation is a major challenge, with the most prominent being punicic acid. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of traditional roasting in a microwave on the lipid content, nutritional value, and oxidative stability of Moroccan pomegranate seed oil. The findings indicated a rise in the amount of oil after 15 min of roasting at 650 W, the amount of oil rose from 27.03 to 30.10 (g/100 g). However, the protein content, UV absorbance values, iodine, and saponification values were not significantly affected by a longer roasting time. The peroxide value increases with roasting (1.00 to 5.00 M.eq. O2/kg oil). The roasting process under 350 W did not significantly alter the fatty acid composition. The total tocopherol content exhibits a decrease with increasing roasting time and power, ranging from 333.36 mg/100 g for unroasted seeds to 316.84 mg/100 g for seeds roasted under the conditions of 650 W for 15 min. The roasting process has proven to be critical for the immediate and long-term preservation of the nutritional and physico-chemical properties of pomegranate seed oil.

Braiding Fruits and Flowers as a Wish of Prosperity and Victory over Death in the Carved Festoons of Ancient Rome

Plant motifs had a significant role in ancient cultures, with decorative, artistic, and communicative values. However, little knowledge exists of the botanical composition of festoons, widely used in Greek-Roman art. We analysed 81 festoons, exclusively from sculpture artworks, collected from 13 museums and archaeological sites in Rome (1st century BC–3rd century AD). Using iconographic sources and previous data, we identified the represented species and analysed their abundance and composition using statistical methods (Cluster Analysis, Principal Components Analysis) and diversity indexes (Shannon and Evenness). We documented 3081 botanical elements, identifying 30 taxa, in which fruits with leaves (45%) or alone (10%) represented the most common ones. Laurus nobilis and Quercus cfr. robur were the most frequently depicted species, followed by “pomes” (Pyrus, Malus, Cydonia), Vitis vinifera, Punica granatum, and Ficus carica. Festoons with one or two species can be easily distinguished from those with multiple species, often arranged with figs or vine branches at the ends, with symbolic aims related to fertility, rebirth, and abundance values. A balanced botanical composition also exists, with flowers typically in the middle and a species distribution that is not casual. The results enriched our comprehension of ancient Roman society, considering funerary and celebrative events.

A novel Co/Zn-ferrite molecularly imprinted polymer-based electrochemical assay for sensing of gallic acid in plant extracts, wine, and herbal supplement.

In this study, a new molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based sensor platform was developed for the electrochemical determination of gallic acid (GAL) in plant extracts, wine, and herbal supplements. Gallic acid is known for its natural antioxidant properties, which play an important role in preventing cell deterioration that can lead to various diseases. In addition, gallic acid has therapeutic potential due to its anticancer, antiinflammatory, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective properties. Accurate analysis of gallic acid in complex matrices, in mixed samples where different components coexist, is necessary to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this compound. Cobalt ferrite-zinc-dihydro caffeic acid (CFO_Zn_DHCA) nanoparticles, sphere-like in shape and 5 ± 1nm in size, were incorporated into the MIP-based electrochemical sensor design to enhance the active surface area and porosity of the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) surface. The functional monomer chosen for this study was aminophenyl boronic acid (3-APBA). In the GAL/CFO_Zn_DHCA/3-APBA@MIP-GCE sensor, which was developed using photopolymerization (PP), 3-APBA as a functional monomer was designed, and obtained in the presence of basic monomer (HEMA), cross-linker (EGDMA), and initiator (2-hydroxy-2-methyl propiophenone) by keeping it under a UV lamp at 365nm. It aims to detect GAL in real samples such as Punica granatum (pomegranate) peel, Camellia sinensis (green and black tea leaves), wine, and herbal supplements. Morphological and electrochemical characterizations of the designed GAL/CFO_Zn_DHCA/3-APBA@MIP-GCE sensor were carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The linear range for the determination of GAL using the indirect method (5.0mM [Fe(CN)6]-3/-4) was found to be 1.0 × 10-13M-1.0 × 10-12M, and the limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for standard solutions werecalculated as 1.29 × 10-14 and 4.29 × 10-14M, respectively. As a result of the study, the developed MIP-based electrochemical sensor was suitable for detecting GAL with high specificity, selectivity, and sensitivity. Recovery studies were performed to determine the practical applicability of the sensor, and the results were satisfactory. This innovative sensor platform stands out as a reliable and sensitive analytical tool for determining GAL.

Electrospun zein fibers loaded with pomegranate flower extract: Characterization and release behavior

In the present study electro-spinning technique was used to encapsulate pomegranate flower extract (PFE) in zein fibers. The effect of PFE concentrations (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% (v/v)) on the electrospun solution properties, such as surface tension, apparent viscosity, and electrical conductivity were investigated. These effects on various fibers properties including morphology, thermal properties, structural characteristics, morphology, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, encapsulation efficiency (EE), and release behavior was also evaluated. The results revealed that, increasing the PFE concentration (0–15%) led to increased surface tension and electrical conductivity and decreased the apparent viscosity of the electrospinning solution. This caused an increase in the fiber diameter from 217.1 to 722.2 nm with considerable EE (92.21–96.1%) and loading capacity (LC) (12.3–36.1%). Increasing the PFE concentration increased the surface hydrophilicity (contact angle of 93.21° and 57.82° respectively for 0 and 15% PFE loaded electrospun). Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) results showed that all the fibers were uniform and free of beads. Also, molecular interaction between the PFE and zein has been confirmed with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). DSC results indicated that the thermal stability were increased with increasing PEF concentration. The study also showed that the release of the PFE was slowest in a fatty food simulant. The primary release mechanism in simulated environments was Fickian diffusion. This research demonstrated that PFE loaded zein fibers can be used successfully in drug delivery, active packaging, and cosmetic products.

Medicinal use of the Dadima (Pomegranate) fruit in Ayurveda: A comprehensive review

Ayurveda describes Ahara (food) as the best preventive medicine and considered Mahabhaishajya, the superior medicine in Ayurveda. Dadima (Punica granatum L.) of family Lytheraceae is listed among the fruits in the Phala category, which is a type of Ahara Varga, and is recommended both as an Ahara and as Aushadha (medicine) for various health conditions. Use of Dadima as an Aushadha in 530 formulations with indications and a detailed review on the use of Dadima in Ahara Kalpana (dietetic preparations) mentioned in Ayurveda have already been reported. We aimed to review and compile the 530 Aushadha Kalpana (medicinal formulations) of Dadima. The present study involves a comprehensive compilation and analysis of information related to Dadima (Punica granatum L.) and its therapeutic uses as documented in 8 Samhita Grantha, 23 Nighantu and 44 ayurvedic compendias. The therapeutic uses of Dadima were then systematically classified based on the Srotasa (channels or systems). Among 530 Aushadha Kalpana of Dadima, Churna (159) is found maximum dosages form. A maximum of 158 formulations have been indicated in diseases of Annavaha Srotas. Sixteen (16) formulations are indicated in general medical conditions. Twelve formulations are indicated for the management of Urdhvajatrugata Vyadhi. One formulation is indicated for its use as Rasayana, while eight formulations are indicated for use as Vajikarana. Dadima, has been used both as food as well as medicine, with a wide range of clinical indications proving it to be a potent nutraceutical.

Natural Polyphenol-Rich Inhibitors of Pancreatic Lipase for Obesity Management – A Systematic Review

Background: Obesity, a critical public health challenge, is associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Body mass index (BMI) categorizes obesity levels, with trends indicating a growing prevalence worldwide. Dietary choices and sedentary lifestyles contribute significantly to this condition, yet treatments remain limited by side effects. Pancreatic lipase, the primary enzyme in dietary fat digestion, presents a promising target for obesity management. Inhibitors of pancreatic lipase reduce fat absorption, lowering caloric intake and aiding in weight management. Synthetic inhibitors like orlistat are effective but lead to adverse gastrointestinal and systemic effects, creating a demand for safer alternatives. Methods: A thorough literature review was conducted using PubMed, Elsevier, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases, employing search terms such as "herbal drugs," "polyphenols," "pancreatic lipase inhibitors," "antilipase," "natural products," and "antiobesity herbal drugs." Discussion and Conclusion: Polyphenol-rich plants such as Camellia sinensis (tea), Coffea (coffee), Punica granatum (pomegranate), Vitis vinifera (grape), and Curcuma longa (turmeric) exhibit natural pancreatic lipase inhibitory properties, offering therapeutic potential for obesity management. This review explores the bioactive compounds in these plants, emphasizing their efficacy and minimal side effects compared to synthetic drugs, and underscores the importance of further research in developing natural, polyphenol-based treatments for obesity.

Modeling of the spatial distribution of species of interest in agriculture for their conservation: case of Punica granatum L.

Abstract Modeling the spatial distribution of species is an important step in biodiversity conservation. The models used can be helpful in predicting the impacts of climate change on the geographical distribution of species and in identifying areas where they are most likely to occur. The purpose of this work was to model the spatial distribution of the pomegranate species (Punica granatum L.) in Morocco according to the principle of maximum entropy (Maxent). This modelling method is widely used in ecology and biogeography because of its ability to work with datasets, and to produce accurate predictions of species distribution. Based on agro-ecological data such as topographical factors and climatic variables and focusing on regions where pomegranate cultivation is significant, these data can be collected at different spatial and temporal scales. They are typically integrated into Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for utilization within the simulation model. The resulting model depicts the potential spatial distribution of pomegranate cultivation throughout Morocco. The model obtained agrees perfectly with the actual distribution of the species in different regions of the country, especially since it is known for its hardiness and its adaptation to variable environmental conditions. Thus, the modeling showed that other geographical areas present favorable conditions for the development of pomegranate cropping. The determination of spatial distribution constitutes a first step to predict possible evolution of the pomegranate cropping according to climate change. The importance of this process for biodiversity conservation lies in several aspects, such as the identification of areas at risk, conservation planning, and the assessment of impacts on ecosystems.

The Role of the most Important Fruits in the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases in Persian Traditional Medicine

Abstract: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of health problems worldwide. CVD are defined as conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. Mortality due to cardiovascular diseases has increased in recent years. However, they can be easily controlled by reducing risk factors, including lipid profile, blood pressure, tobacco, alcohol, and low physical activity. Fruits have an important role in improving the risk factors of CVD. Ancient medical sources can play an important role in generating ideas for new research. In this study, the most common fruits that have been recommended by Persian traditional physicians in patients with CVD were reviewed. New documents supporting these effects were also extracted through a search on electronic databases. The findings showed that some fruits have a therapeutic role in CVD, according to Persian traditional medicine. Old Persian traditional physicians, such as Avicenna, advised fruits, including apples, lemon, pomegranate, pineapple, quince, cucumber, plums, and citron, for the treatment of CVDs. Several studies have been carried out on the effects of the above fruits, including apple (Malus pumila), pomegranate (Punica granatum), pineapple (Ananas comosus), Quince (Cydonia oblonga Mill.), fig (Ficus carica L.), and olive (Olea europaea). Modulation of signaling pathways and molecular properties that leads to reducing lipid metabolism disorders, correcting endothelial dysfunction, reducing blood pressure, reducing oxidative stress, and suppressing inflammation responses are the major mechanisms conducted by these fruits in preventing CVD. These pieces of evidence show that the opinion of Iranian medicine physicians regarding choosing fruits for treating CVD is worthy of consideration and an entry for deriving hypotheses for future studies.