Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, especially as they get older. A new 2025 study shows that pomegranate seed extract, especially when made using a method called pressurised liquid extraction (PLE), might help slow down how prostate cancer grows and spreads.
What Is Pomegranate Seed Extract?
Pomegranate seed extract comes from the small seeds inside the fruit. While most people drink the juice, the seeds themselves are packed with natural ingredients that may help slow cancer growth. These include:
- Proteins that can be broken down into smaller parts called peptides, which may have anti-cancer effects
- Healthy fats, such as punicic acid, which might reduce inflammation
- Antioxidants like ellagic acid, which help protect cells from damage
Researchers used two special ways to get the good stuff from the seeds:
- HIFU – uses sound waves
- PLE – uses gentle pressure and liquid. This method gave the strongest results.
What Did the Study Do?
The scientists tested the extract:
- In a lab using prostate cancer cells
- In mice with prostate cancer
They looked at how the cancer cells behaved—how fast they grew, whether they could spread, and whether tumours got bigger.
What Did They Find?
Pomegranate seed extract:
- Slowed down cancer cell growth
- Stopped cancer cells from spreading
- Made tumours smaller in mice (up to 57%)
- Didn’t harm healthy prostate cells
- Reduced levels of harmful proteins like VEGF and MMPs, which help tumours grow and spread
Why Does This Matter?
These early results suggest that pomegranate seed extract—especially when made with the PLE method—could be a natural way to help manage prostate cancer. It might help slow things down and stop the cancer from spreading. This could be useful alongside other treatments in the future.
It’s important to remember: this was a lab and animal study. We still need trials in humans to confirm if it works the same way.
Should You Take Pomegranate for Prostate Health?
You can buy pomegranate juice or supplements in shops. While this study used a special lab-made extract, pomegranates are still a healthy choice. They are full of antioxidants and may help protect the prostate.
But the exact extract used in the study isn’t available as a supplement yet. If you're considering supplements, it’s wise to read labels carefully and choose trusted products.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is pomegranate good for prostate cancer?
Early research suggests that pomegranate—especially the seeds—contains natural compounds that may help slow the growth and spread of prostate cancer cells.
Can pomegranate shrink prostate tumours?
In animal studies, tumours were up to 57% smaller when treated with pomegranate seed extract. Human studies are still needed.
What is the best form of pomegranate for prostate health?
The most effective form in this study was a specially prepared seed extract using pressurised liquid extraction (PLE). However, pomegranate juice and peel extract may also offer some benefits.
Are pomegranate supplements safe?
This study found no harm to healthy prostate cells. While most pomegranate supplements are generally safe, they may vary in quality. Always read the label and choose reputable brands.
Can I get the same benefits from eating pomegranate seeds?
Eating the seeds is healthy, but this study used a concentrated lab-made extract. The effects may not be the same as eating the whole fruit.
Final Thoughts: Is Pomegranate the Next Natural Tool Against Prostate Cancer?
Pomegranate seed extract, especially the kind made with pressurised liquid extraction, shows real promise in early research. It slowed cancer growth, reduced tumour size, and didn’t harm healthy cells — all positive signs.
Although further human studies are necessary, this natural extract has the potential to contribute to a broader strategy promoting prostate health in the future.
