Evaluation of Whole Pomegranate Extract as Decongestant for Preparation before Diagnostic Rigid Nasal Endoscopy: a Double Blind Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: The use of rigid nasal endoscopy is one of the common methods to investigate anomalies and pathologies of nasal cavities in the patients with sinonasal symptoms. Purpose: To identify the effect of whole pomegranate extract on pain relief during nasal endoscopy. Methods: Adults candidate for rigid nasal endoscopy were enrolled from January 2015 to April 2015 in Loghman hospital. The patients were randomized in a double-blinded fashion, to receive two solutions; whole pomegranate extract(WPE) and shrinkage solution (SS) that was consisted of 5cc lidocaine 2% and 5cc phenylephrin 0.5 %. The principle outcomes were severity of pain and mucosal appearance during nasal endoscopy. Results: A total of 41 patients (mean age: 40.05±12.92) were studied. There were no significant differences in severity of pain and mucosal appearance between both groups. Conclusion: A new point in modern medicine is using traditional medicine as a complementary arm. The natural elements can be sometimes a good alternative. The pomegranate extract probably has constrictive effects and can be an alternative for vasoconstrictor drugs. There is a need for stronger research in this field.