The Pomegranate
Though not native to Egypt, the pomegranate was an important part of ancient Egyptian life. It was not only a beautiful plant to be placed in gardens and admired, but it also produced a fruit that was both valuable as a food and as a medicine.
The pomegranate, a low-growing shrub, originated in the area of Turkey, Syria and Iran. The first evidence of a cultivated pomegranate in ancient Egypt is in the early Eighteenth Dynasty during the reign of Thutmoses I. It is depicted on the tomb walls of Ineni, an official of Thutmose I. From that time onward, the pomegranate was very popular. It’s flowers were used in bouquets and offerings, the bark, roots and fruits were used in medicines, and the fruits were not only eaten, but made into wine, as well (www.ancientegyptmagazine.com).
The bark and roots of the pomegranate tree are filled with tannins, good for killing off bacteria. The roots were often used to kill tapeworms and to settle upset stomachs.
To kill roundworm: root of pomegranate; water; remains in the dew overnight and is taken for one day. -Ebers Papyrus
Another excellent remedy of the belly: root of pomegranate is pounded with beer and is left in a jar with water overnight. Strain in a cloth and give it to the patient to drink. – Ebers Papyrus
The rind of the pomegranate was used as a dye, as well, turning fabrics and leather yellow (Manniche; An Ancient Egyptian Herbal; pg. 148).
They are depicted in art throughout the New Kingdom and beyond. Besides adding color to tomb and temple walls, pomegranates also graced delicate artwork, such as the silver vase found in Tutankhamun’s tomb (www.ancientegyptmagazine.com).
© 2010, Page Strong. All rights reserved.
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A very interesting post. It is said, but not completely documented that the Apple Eve gave to Adam was actually a pomegranate. I knew the rind could be used for dye. but the root for helping upset stomachs is very useful indeed. Thanks so much for the information.
Thank you! I’m glad you liked it!
Page.
Always enjoy reading your stuff. Knew the pomegranate was a steady part of the diet in ancient Egypt, but its other uses are news to me. Nice post.
I’m so glad you like my articles! It is always so wonderful to hear such wonderful compliments. Thank you!
Interesting post, food and medicine…
Compliments Page!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it!
this fruit Pomegranate is indeed very historical in nature. I love this post. Great job!
Interesting that the pomegranate is popular these days because of its health benefits, but the writing was on the (tomb) walls all along. That Pom drink is delicious, and healthy!