Pomegranate extract concentrates the fruit's punicalagins, a type of ellagitannin. Many people choose it over juice or whole fruit to get consistent polyphenols without extra sugar.
People take it to promote cardiovascular health, including maintaining blood pressure and arterial function. Others use it for urinary tract health and to counter oxidative stress with antioxidants.
Pomegranate extract usually comes in capsules or softgels, often taken with a meal to aid absorption. The dose varies widely, but standardization to punicalagins matters more than total weight. Caution: This extract can interact with medications. It may lower blood pressure, so use it carefully with antihypertensive drugs. It is a moderate CYP450 enzyme inhibitor (like grapefruit), potentially affecting metabolism of some statins and other drugs. People on blood pressure medication or statins should consult a healthcare provider before use.