Pomegranate–Rose Cooler: Polyphenols and Petals in Perfect Harmony

Nutritional Overview

(per serving)

• Calories: 60 kcal

• Protein: 0.5 g

• Fat: 0 g

• Carbohydrates: 15 g

• Sugar: 13 g (from pomegranate juice)

(Values approximate; unsweetened pomegranate juice.)

Ingredients

(Serves 2)

• 300 ml (1¼ cups) pure pomegranate juice

• 200 ml (¾ cup) sparkling mineral water

• 1 tsp rose water

• 1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 6–8 mint leaves, gently bruised

• Ice cubes to serve

• Optional garnish: pomegranate arils and edible rose petals

Method

1. Prepare the base: In a glass jug, mix pomegranate juice, lemon juice, and rose water. Stir gently to blend.

2. Add sparkle: Pour in the sparkling water and stir softly to avoid losing effervescence.

3. Build the chill: Add ice and mint leaves to serving glasses.

4. Serve with grace: Pour the rosy mixture over ice and top with a scattering of pomegranate arils and rose petals.

The Science of the Beverage

Pomegranate (Punica granatum):
Pomegranates are Mediterranean royalty, their jewel-like seeds packed with punicalagins and anthocyanins that provide exceptional antioxidant power. Research shows pomegranate polyphenols support cardiovascular health by improving endothelial function and reducing oxidative stress (Davidson et al., 2009). They also exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic effects (Rosenblat et al., 2006).

Rose Water (Rosa damascena):
Beyond its perfumed charm, rose water contains trace terpenes and flavonoids that display mild anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory effects (Boskabady et al., 2011). It has been used since the Abbasid Caliphate for digestive comfort and emotional balance, a soft-spoken form of botanical therapy.

Lemon (Citrus limon):
A key Mediterranean staple, lemon provides citric acid, vitamin C, and bioflavonoids such as hesperidin, which help neutralise free radicals and aid iron absorption (Garg & Garg, 2001). It also stimulates gastric secretions, supporting digestion after a rich mezze.

Mint (Mentha spicata):
Fresh mint contributes menthol, which exhibits antispasmodic and cooling properties. Clinical evidence supports its role in soothing digestive discomfort and improving alertness (Kennedy et al., 2018). It also adds sensory brightness, a necessary counterpoint to the deep fruit notes of pomegranate.

References

• Boskabady, M. H., et al. (2011). Pharmacological effects of Rosa damascena. Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 14(4), 295–307.

• Davidson, M. H., et al. (2009). Effects of consumption of pomegranate juice on carotid intima–media thickness in men and women at moderate risk for coronary heart disease. American Journal of Cardiology, 104(7), 936–942.

• Garg, A., & Garg, S. (2001). Chemistry and pharmacology of the citrus bioflavonoid hesperidin. Phytotherapy Research, 15(8), 655–669.

• Kennedy, D. O., et al. (2018). Effects of peppermint and rosemary essential oils on cognition and mood. International Journal of Neuroscience, 128(7), 671–679.

• Rosenblat, M., et al. (2006). Pomegranate juice reduces macrophage oxidative stress and atherogenicity. Atherosclerosis, 188(1), 68–76.

Artistic interpretation - details may differ from the actual.