It’s October which means it’s time for some pomegranate picking. This delicious fruit originated in Iran and Northern India and has been cultivated in Greece since ancient times. It is a fruit that is very significant in Greek culture and mythology. In ancient Greece the fruit was called  the ‘fruit of the dead’. It is the fruit of Persephone, who was trapped in the underworld was only allowed to eat Pomegranate seeds.  Interesting enough the pomegranate is still associated with the dead. In Greece today the seeds are  included in a dish called ‘Kolliva’. This dish is served on the day of the memorials of the deceased or on religious events like ‘Soul Saturday.’ It contains ingredients such as wheat, flour, sugar, raisins, walnuts etc.

The pomegranate fruit is also symbolic of abundance, fertility and good luck. It is categorized as a berry and it has anti-inflammatory effects, it can lower blood pressure and many other ailments. You can drink it as a juice or just eat the seeds.