Pumpkin
All About Pumpkin
Much research has been conducted on the benefits of pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oils and extracts. Studies have shown a link to helping reduce symptoms associated with prostatic hyperplasia.
Fun Fact
The Irish lit turnips and potatoes to ward off dark spirits. This was their version of a jack-o-lantern. When they immigrated to the Americas in the mid 19th century, largely as a result of the potato famine, they noticed that pumpkins were much more effective. This led to the use of the pumpkin as the modern jack-o-lantern and symbol of Halloween.
Pumpkin Research
Multiple human studies have demonstrated pumpkin seed may help with urinary and erectile disfunction associated with an enlarged prostate. Scientific studies have also shown it may help with cardiac health and in reducing cholesterol and boosting immunity. More research is warranted. Seeds have also been used as a folk remedy for digestive parasites. Click the button below for a detailed review of research.
Pumpkin Blog Articles
Pumpkin (Seeds)
Latin Name: Cucurbita pepo
Family: Cucurbitaceae
Other Names
- Other common names: English melon, musk melon, calabaza, citrouille, pepitas (seeds)
- Other scientific names: Cucumis pepo, Cucurbita galeotti, Cucurbita mammeata
- Similar species: Cucurbita maxima, Cucurbita moschata
Plant Description
A pumpkin is a large round orange gord with many flat oval whitish seeds. Leaves are veined and hairy, and on creepinng vines; flowers are bright yellow and star shaped. Certain types of pumpkins produce seeds without a white hull.
Herb Description
Seeds are collected from a ripe pumpkin, cleaned and dried. Only certain types of pumpkins produce shell-less seeds. Taste is nutty. It is better to eat unroasted pumpkin seeds to preserve vital nutrients. Pumpkin seed oils and extracts are also made.
Key Constituents
- Keuy nutrients: calcium, magnesium, zinc, potassium, silica, niacin, thiamine, viatmin E
- Unsaturated fatty acids: linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid
- Amino acids such as cucurbitin
- Carotenoids including lutein, carotene, and beta-carotene
- Plus: lecithin, phytosterin, albumin, myrosin, and trace amounts of arsenic
