Pumpkin, generally known as “Bitter melon”, is considered as one of nature’s best medicinal vegetables as it is packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help us keep healthy.
Pumpkin might be useful in managing diabetes as it helps increase insulin secretion in the body. It is also one of the most beneficial vegetables to help boost immunity.
All parts of this plant are used but seeds have gained more importance because of their high nutritional value. Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of bioactive compounds with medicinal properties. The oil obtained from the seed is used as a preservative and as an ingredient in cosmetics, foods and nutraceutical. Pumpkin seed oil helps keep the skin healthy and youthful[1][2][7][9].

What are the synonyms of Pumpkin?

Cucurbita maxima, Ranga, Kumda, Kumbalakai, Dudde, Al Tumbi, , Koron, Parangikaji, Pushini, Gummadi, Saphurikomra, Farsi, Halwa Kaddu, Lal dhudhiya, Mattanga, Autumn Squash, Winter squash, Red gourd, Melon Pumpkin

What is the source of Pumpkin?

Plant Based

Benefits of Pumpkin

What are the benefits of Pumpkin for Hair loss?

Modern Science View

Pumpkin seed oil contains phytosterols that are responsible to affect the enzyme associated with male hormones such as testosterone and androsterone. Although the exact mechanism is not known, Pumpkin seed oil is believed to be useful for managing male hair loss[3][6].

How effective is Pumpkin?

Likely effective

Hair loss

Recommended Dosage of Pumpkin

Pumpkin Oil - 2-5 drops or as per your requirement.

How to use Pumpkin

1. Pumpkin Seed Oil for skin
a. Take 2-5 drops of Pumpkin seed oil.
b. Add coconut oil and mix well.
c. Apply it on the skin and let it absorb.
d. It moisturizes the skin and makes it look hydrated.

2. Pumpkin Hair Pack
a. Mash about 1 cup chopped Pumpkin.
b. Add ¼ cup coconut oil.
c. Add 2 tablespoons honey.
d. Mix properly till the mixture has a conditioner-like consistency.
e. Divide your hair into a few sections.
f. Apply the hair mask on each section of damp hair.
g. Gently massage and spread through the length of your hair.
h. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes
i. Wash it with shampoo and lukewarm water

Frequently asked questions

Q. Can you drink Pumpkin juice?

Modern Science View

Yes, you can use a ripe Pumpkin to make its juice.
1. Wash and remove the rind of Pumpkin.
2. Put it in a blender and make a puree.
3. Add some water to get a juice-like consistency.
4. You can add some carrot juice, ground nutmeg, cinnamon or ginger juice to enhance the flavour.
5. Add a few drops of lemon juice.
6. Store in the refrigerator for some time.
7. Serve cold.

Q. Is Pumpkin a fruit?

Modern Science View

A fruit is “the edible reproductive part of a seed plant”, hence all squashes including Pumpkin are classified as a fruit.

Q. How do you cook Pumpkins?

Modern Science View

Pumpkin can be cooked, baked, boiled and grilled. It can be mashed and cooked with or without its rind. Pumpkin can also be eaten in the form of a soup or made into a drink.

Q. How do I eat Pumpkin seeds?

Modern Science View

Pumpkin seeds can be eaten whole after drying and baking or roasting them. They can be eaten in-between-meals as a snack or sprinkled onto salads.

Q. What are the benefits of Pumpkin for babies?

Modern Science View

Pumpkin prevents constipation in babies due to the presence of high fiber content. This manages the bowel movements and improves the digestive system. It also improves energy level and boosts the immune system.

References

1
Montesano D, Blasi F, Simonetti MS, et al.Chemical and nutritional characterization of seed oil from Cucurbita maxima L. (var. Berrettina) Pumpkin.Foods.2018;7(3):30.
2
Montesano D,Rocchetti G,Putnik P, et al.Bioactive profile of Pumpkin: An overview on terpenoids and their health-promoting properties.Current Opinion in Food Science.2018;22:81-87.
3
WebMD.Pumpkin: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
4
Fico AA, Petrela E, Zajmi E et al.Secondary carotenemia:case report.Med. Res. Chron.2016;3(2):203-205.
5
Grzybek M, Kukula-Koch W, Strachecka A.et.al.Evaluation of Anthelmintic Activity and Composition of Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) Seed Extracts—In Vitro and in Vivo Studies.Int J Mol Sci. 2016 Sep; 17(9): 1456.
6
Young Hye Cho, Sang Yeoup Lee, Dong Wook Jeong.et.al.Effect of Pumpkin Seed Oil on Hair Growth in Men with Androgenetic Alopecia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2014; 2014: 549721.
7
Yadav M, Jain S, Toma R.et.al.Medicinal and biological potential of pumpkin: An updated review.NUTR RES REV.2010(23);184–190.
8
Nishimura M, Ohkawara T,Sato H.et.al.Pumpkin Seed Oil Extracted From Cucurbita maxima Improves Urinary Disorder in Human Overactive Bladder.J Tradit Complement Med. 2014;4(1): 72–74.
9
Meru G, Fu Y, Levya D, et al.Health benefits of Pumpkin seed and nutrition profile of 35 pumpkin accessions.IFAS.2017:1-5.
10
Kalaivani A, Uddandrao VV, Saravanan G.Anti-obese potential of Curcurbita maxima seeds oil: effect on lipid profile and histoarchitecture in high-fat diet induced obese rats.Natural products research.2017;32(4):1-4.
11
Cho YH, Lee SY, Jeong DW, et al.Effect of pumpkin seed oil on hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.Evid based complement alternat med.2014;1-7.
12
Balkrishnan A.Pitkushmand.Ayurved Jadi Buti Rehsya. Danik Bhaskar.2017.

Disclaimer

The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.