Is Pomegranate Peel Good for Stomach Ulcers?

According to ancient Ayurvedic medicine, pomegranate, including its peel, has been used to treat various gastrointestinal issues, including ulcers. This traditional use has prompted modern scientific investigations into whether pomegranate peel is good for stomach ulcers, with research showing promising results in animal models due to its high concentration of bioactive compounds.

Quick Summary

Pomegranate peel extracts have demonstrated anti-ulcerogenic effects in animal studies, attributed to their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. These bioactive compounds help protect the stomach lining, increase mucus secretion, and fight off contributing factors like H. pylori and NSAID-induced damage.

Key Points

• Proven Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Pomegranate peel extract has demonstrated the ability to reduce inflammation markers associated with gastric ulcers in animal studies.

• High in Antioxidants: The peel contains a high concentration of polyphenols and tannins that protect against oxidative stress, a key factor in ulcer development.

• Helps Protect Stomach Lining: Its compounds stimulate the production of protective gastric mucus and promote healthy blood flow to the stomach lining, aiding in its repair.

• Fights Ulcer-Causing Bacteria: Pomegranate peel exhibits antimicrobial properties against Helicobacter pylori, a common cause of stomach ulcers.

• Caution with Dosages: While promising, most evidence comes from animal research. Large amounts of unprocessed peel, stem, or root can contain potentially unsafe compounds.

• Not a Replacement for Medical Care: Pomegranate peel should not be used as a substitute for standard medical treatment for stomach ulcers without a doctor's guidance.

The Scientific Basis for Pomegranate Peel's Anti-Ulcer Effects

Research on the potential benefits of pomegranate peel for stomach ulcers is largely based on animal studies and in vitro experiments, revealing its rich composition of polyphenols, tannins, and flavonoids. These compounds work through several mechanisms to support gastric health and protect against ulcer formation. By counteracting the effects of harmful substances and supporting the stomach's natural defenses, pomegranate peel extracts have shown significant potential as a natural therapeutic agent.

Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties

One of the primary ways pomegranate peel helps combat ulcers is through its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Ulcers are often characterized by significant inflammation and oxidative stress in the stomach lining. The high antioxidant capacity of pomegranate peel, which is up to 10 times higher than that of the pulp, helps neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative damage.

• Reduction of Inflammation: Studies have shown that pomegranate peel extracts can inhibit the expression of pro-inflammatory markers, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), which are elevated in ulcerated gastric tissue.
• Scavenging Free Radicals: Bioactive compounds like punicalagin and ellagic acid are highly effective at scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby mitigating the damage caused by oxidative stress.

Gastroprotective and Cytoprotective Mechanisms

Pomegranate peel also helps strengthen the stomach's natural defensive barriers. This cytoprotective effect is crucial for preventing and healing ulcers caused by factors like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or H. pylori infection.

• Increased Mucus Secretion: Research indicates that pomegranate peel extracts stimulate the production of gastric mucus and bicarbonate, creating a thicker, more protective barrier against stomach acid.
• Enhanced Blood Flow: The peel's components can help promote better mucosal blood flow, which is vital for healing damaged gastric tissue.

Antimicrobial Action Against H. pylori

H. pylori is a bacterium that is a major cause of peptic ulcers. Pomegranate peel has demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against H. pylori in laboratory settings. This ability to inhibit bacterial growth makes it a potential adjunct to conventional treatments.

• Inhibiting Bacterial Adhesion: Compounds in the peel can alter the surface of H. pylori, preventing it from adhering to the stomach lining.
• Disrupting Bacterial Growth: Some phytochemicals have a direct inhibitory effect on the growth of H. pylori and other gut pathogens.

Potential Uses and Considerations for Pomegranate Peel

While the scientific findings in animal models are encouraging, it is important to remember that these are not substitutes for medical advice or proven treatments for humans. For ulcer management, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider.

How to Prepare Pomegranate Peel

For those interested in exploring its benefits, the peel is most often used in dried, powdered, or extracted form. Simply consuming raw peel is not recommended as it is extremely bitter and tough to digest.

• Powder: Dried pomegranate peels can be ground into a fine powder. This powder can be steeped in hot water to make a tea or mixed with water to form a paste.
• Extract: Concentrated extracts are available commercially, often in capsule or liquid form. The concentration and specific compounds can vary depending on the extraction method and the part of the plant used.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Although generally considered safe for most people in moderate amounts, caution is advised when using pomegranate peel due to its high concentration of active compounds.

• Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, though this is rare.
• Dosage: High concentrations or excessive consumption could be problematic. In large quantities, the root, stem, and peel can contain toxic compounds, so it's best to stick to professionally prepared extracts or moderate amounts of dried peel.
• Drug Interactions: Pomegranate may interact with certain medications, including blood pressure drugs and blood thinners like warfarin. Consult a doctor before use, especially if you are taking medication.

Comparison of Pomegranate Peel Extract and Standard Medication for Ulcers

Feature	Pomegranate Peel Extract (PPE)	Standard Anti-ulcer Medication (e.g., PPIs, Omeprazole)
Mechanism of Action	Multifaceted: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective (promotes mucus), antimicrobial.	Primarily targets acid production by inhibiting the H+/K+ ATPase pump.
Application	Adjunctive therapy or preventative use, supported by animal studies.	First-line treatment for active peptic ulcers in humans.
Side Effects	Rare but possible sensitivity reactions or digestive issues.	Can include headaches, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and potential long-term risks.
Bioavailability	Can be low; nanotechnology is being explored to improve absorption.	Generally high and well-established.
Safety in High Doses	Potential toxicity with large amounts of unprocessed root, stem, or peel.	Generally safe under medical supervision, with known side effect profiles.

Conclusion

Emerging research, primarily from animal studies, suggests that pomegranate peel possesses powerful anti-ulcerogenic properties. Its rich profile of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and tannins appears to protect the gastric mucosa, inhibit damaging bacteria like H. pylori, and promote healing. While these findings are promising, it's essential to recognize the limitations of current research, which mostly involves animal and lab-based models. Always consult with a healthcare professional before considering pomegranate peel as a remedy for stomach ulcers, especially if you are on other medications. Its potential as a complementary therapy warrants further clinical investigation to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans.

References

• : Clinical Applications of Pomegranate | IntechOpen. [online] Available at: https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/61036 [Accessed 18 Oct. 2025].
• : Healthline. (2021). 9 Science-Backed Benefits of Pomegranate Peels. [online] Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pomegranate-peel [Accessed 18 Oct. 2025].

Frequently Asked Questions

Does pomegranate peel directly cure stomach ulcers?

There is no conclusive evidence from human clinical trials that pomegranate peel can directly cure stomach ulcers. However, animal studies suggest it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and gastroprotective effects that support ulcer healing.

Is it safe to consume pomegranate peel?

When consumed as a dried powder or extract in moderate, standard dosages, pomegranate peel is generally considered safe. Ingesting large quantities of unprocessed peel, root, or stem is possibly unsafe, as these parts can contain higher levels of potentially toxic compounds.

How do you prepare pomegranate peel for ulcers?

For therapeutic use, pomegranate peel is typically dried and ground into a powder to make a tea. You can also find commercially prepared extracts in capsule or liquid form. The active compounds are highly concentrated in the peel.

Can pomegranate peel help with *H. pylori* infections?

Yes, some studies indicate that pomegranate peel extract has notable antimicrobial activity against Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria most commonly associated with stomach ulcers. It is thought to disrupt the bacteria's ability to adhere to the stomach lining.

How does pomegranate peel protect the stomach lining?

The peel's compounds, particularly tannins, help form a protective layer over the damaged mucosal tissue. This protective barrier allows the underlying tissue to heal and prevents further damage from gastric acid.

Can I eat the peel directly instead of making an extract?

It is not recommended to eat the raw peel directly due to its extremely bitter taste and tough texture. For easier consumption and higher concentration of beneficial compounds, using dried peel powder or a professionally prepared extract is better.

Does pomegranate peel interact with ulcer medications?

Pomegranate can potentially interact with certain medications, including those for blood pressure and some blood thinners. It is crucial to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking pomegranate peel products if you are on any medication for ulcers or other conditions.