Fruit on a deciduous fruit-bearing pomegranate tree, Punica granatum of the family Lythraceae, growing in the warm Italian climate As well as its fruit and juice drink, the pomegranate has a wide culinary usage in baking, cooking, garnishes, and alcoholic beverages including wine and cocktails. Pomegranates contain higher levels of antioxidants than most other fruits. Antioxidants may help to protect cells from free radicals associated with heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, and many other diseases.