Potential effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum) on rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review

Background: Taking into account the adverse impact of the drug therapy on rheumatoid arthritis (RA), adjuvant therapies without such undesirable effects have recently gained increasing interest. Several studies have examined the potential properties of pomegranate on RA with some uncertain mechanisms suggested. This review aimed to systematically review the available evidence in this regard. Methods: Electronic databases including PubMed, WOS, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Embase and a search engine Google Scholar were searched until March 2020 and search alert services have been applied to identify related articles published after the initial search. There was no limitation regarding language or publication date. Relevant clinical, animal and in vitro studies were chosen. Review papers, conference abstracts, book chapters and articles regarding the effects of pomegranate in combination with other plants as well as articles regarding the effects of pomegranate on other illnesses were deleted. Results: Twelve papers were considered in current systematic review. Human, animal and in vitro studies indicated the beneficial effects of pomegranate on clinical symptoms, inflammatory and oxidative factors in RA. Pomegranate is capable to manage RA complications by reducing the inflammation and oxidative stress. No critical unfavourable results following pomegranate consumption were reported. Conclusion: This paper gives compelling evidence regarding the efficacy of pomegranate in RA and justifies the significance of further clinical researches.

Automated summary

This systematic review found that pomegranate has beneficial effects on clinical symptoms, inflammation, and oxidative factors in rheumatoid arthritis, with no reported critical adverse effects. Pomegranate has the potential to be an effective method in managing complications of rheumatoid arthritis.