HEALTH BENEFITS OF PUMPKIN SEEDS

HEALTH BENEFITS OF PUMPKIN SEEDS

Cucurbita  pepo 

Medicinal parts: The seeds and occasionally, the dried pulp. 

This annual species is probably native to Asia, but is now naturalized in many of the temperate and warmer areas of the world. The pumpkin plant, along with its seeds, has been used in the traditional medicine of many countries, including India and Mexico for many years, principally to eliminate tapeworms. Although the pulp is employed as food, the principal medicinal properties of the plant are in the seeds. 

1. As an anthelminthic, especially against worms of the genera Ascaris, Taenia and Oxiuris.
2. Water extracts of areca nut and pumpkin seeds are used for the treatment of heterophyiasis.
3. Pumpkin seeds are also employed as a mild diuretic and to treat childhood enuresis 
4. The seeds are used against benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), sometimes in conjunction with other herbs, especially Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) seed extract. 
5. To treat prostate cance. 
6. To prevent stomach cancer. 
7. Against cadmium toxicity. 
8. As a mild laxative.
9. To treat pulmonary ailments.
10.Pumpkin seed oil has been used in combination with kava (Piper methysticum Forst.) to treat irritable bladder. 
11. Effective source of Magnisium
12. Pumpkin seeda contain phytosterols,which are compounds that have been noted to reduce levels of LDL (bad) cholestoral.
13. Depression Treatment - Pumpkin seeds contain L-tryptophan, which is a compound naturally effective against depression. Consequently, pumpkin seeds can be used in conjunction with St Johns Wort to help in the alleviation of depression. 
14. Prevention of Osteoporosis - Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, and are a natural protector against osteoporosis. Research has indicated that a low zinc intake is linked to higher rates of osteoporosis. 
15. Prevention of Kidney Stones - According to studies, pumpkin seeds can help to prevent calcium oxalate kidney stones from forming.