Adams LS, Zhang Y, Seeram NP, Heber D, Chen S. Pomegranate ellagitannin- derived compounds exhibit antiproliferative and antiaromatase activity in breast cancer cells in vitro. Cancer Prev Res. 2010;3:108-113.
The health benefits associated with consuming high levels of phytochemicals have recently come to light. They are offered in many new and popular supplements and are naturally contained in several fruits, including the pomegranate. A recent analysis has uncovered the potential of the phytochemicals, specifically those in pomegranates, to prevent and slow the growth of some types of breast cancer. This information is published in the January 2010 issue of Cancer Prevention Research.
Although there has been recent research regarding the pomegranate's heart-health benefits and potential anticancer benefits, this is the first study to examine the fruit's effect on aromatase and breast cancer growth. This study observed the effect of 10 ellagitannin-derived compounds from pomegranates on aromatase activity and breast cancer cell growth in lab tests. The researchers were able to determine that urolithin B most significantly halted breast cancer cell growth.
Although this data is promising, it will be necessary to conduct further studies to determine whether or not these effects will also occur in humans.