Whether your skin and hair seem lackluster or you are suffering from tummy troubles or your immunity is at an all-time low, pumpkin seeds can come to your rescue. Pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita maxima, Cucurbita pepo) were first discovered by Mexican archeologists back in 7,000 B.C. Traditionally, these seeds were used to treat tapeworm infections, and urinary and prostate problems.
It’s not surprising that pumpkin seeds are called superfoods. These minuscule seeds contain numerous essential minerals like zinc, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, and manganese. They are rich in antioxidants and provide generous quantities of vitamins E and A, and contain essential vitamins including vitamin K and B. They also contain adequate doses of sodium and potassium.
Pumpkin seeds are also known as ‘Kaddu Ka Beeja’ in Hindi, ‘Gummadikaya ginjalu’ in Telugu, ‘Pucani Vitaikal’ in Tamil, ‘Kumbalakayi Binjagalu’ in Kannada, ‘mathangayile Kuru’ in Malayalam, ‘Bhopala Biya’ in Marathi, ‘kola’ in Gujarathi, and ‘Kumror Beej’ in Bengali. Pumpkin seeds are nutritional powerhouses that offer myriad benefits for the skin, hair, and overall physiological well-being.
These seeds owe their ability to cleanse your skin to the high amounts of fatty acids, zinc, antioxidants, and vitamins E and A present in them. Listed below are the advantages of consuming pumpkin seeds on a regular basis for your skin:
Ditch the toxic lotions and creams and embrace the wonders of this natural moisturizer.
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Pumpkin seeds contain generous amounts of unsaturated fatty acids like omega-3. These fatty acids have natural emolliating properties that keep the skin moisturized (1).
Caution
To avoid the risk of allergies, do a patch test before applying the pumpkin seed paste on your skin.
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Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, a mineral that possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce the redness and scarring caused by acne.
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According to the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, zinc helps calm overactive sebaceous glands, owing to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects (2). It can, thus, reduce the incidence of acne.
Caution
Make sure you chew the pumpkin seeds properly before ingesting them to prevent indigestion. Consume fresh pumpkin seeds to avoid the risk of food poisoning.
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Pumpkin seeds also help expedite the process of wound healing owing to their rich nutrient content, especially vitamin A and zinc.
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The high doses of vitamin A present in pumpkin seeds can increase the speed of wound healing, according to a study by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (3). As per the study, a deficiency of vitamin A in the body can stunt its internal repair mechanism, while its supplementation can even restore the repair retarded by steroid intake to normal.
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A common concern that causes people to rely on pricey cosmetic treatments is premature aging. Pumpkin seeds help delay the process of skin aging.
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Excessive exposure to the harmful UV rays of the sun along with other lifestyle factors can cause oxidative damage. This can result in premature skin aging, thereby increasing the appearance of wrinkles and pigmentation (4). The antioxidants, vitamins E and A, contained in pumpkin seeds help fight free radical formation and thus, reduce the incidence of premature aging.
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Another grave problem that can arise due to a high amount of sun exposure is skin cancer. Pumpkin seeds lower the risk of skin cancer.
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Studies report that omega-3 supplementation can fight immunosuppression, a phenomenon of reduced immunity against skin cancer caused by sunlight exposure (5).
Pumpkin seeds contain many nutrients such as L-lysine, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids that improve hair growth and quality. Here are the some of the wondrous hair benefits that pumpkin seeds offer:
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Worried about your hair falling out in chunks? Munch on a handful of pumpkin seeds every day.
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Pumpkin seeds contain high doses of iron and L-lysine – two nutrients that can help control excessive hair shedding (6). Increasing the supplementation of these nutrients can enhance hair growth and help restore it to its former glory.
Caution
If you experience allergic reactions after the oral intake of pumpkin seeds, stop their intake and consult your doctor on priority. Chew the pumpkin seeds properly before ingesting and ensure that they are fresh.
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Pumpkin seeds contain rich doses of zinc, an active ingredient present in many anti-dandruff shampoos. Luckily, you don’t have to endure the harshness of these chemical hair cleansers anymore, if you include pumpkin seeds in your daily diet.
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A study by the Dermatology Research and Practice suggests that zinc prevents and treats flaking, irritation, and itching associated with seborrheic dermatitis, owing to its antifungal properties (7).
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Even if you don’t suffer from dandruff or hair fall, including pumpkin seeds in your diet is a good idea to enhance the overall quality of your hair.
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Pumpkin seeds contain nutrients like omega-6 fatty acids, protein, iron, and zinc, all of which are important for your scalp and hair’s improved health (8).
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In addition to enhancing your outer appearance, pumpkin seeds also help a great deal in improving your general state of health. Here are the health benefits of pumpkin seeds:
It’s not the world’s best feeling to feel under the weather every second day. What you can do to change that is to eat pumpkin seeds on a daily basis.
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Pumpkin seeds, being rich in zinc, help lower oxidative stress and the generation of inflammatory cytokines, both of which impede immunity (9).
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Another health benefit offered by the wonder mineral zinc, abundantly present in pumpkin seeds, is improved prostate health.
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A study by the Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care suggests that high levels of zinc promote prostate health and lower the incidence of prostate cancer (10).
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Diabetes is one of the most prevalent modern day health problems. The good part, however, is that you can prevent it with the right food and lifestyle choices, such as including pumpkin seeds in your diet.
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One study found that pumpkin seeds possess hypoglycemic properties that can aid glycemic control, and thus help prevent diabetes (11).
Caution
Consult your doctor about the recommended dosage of pumpkin seeds. Chew the pumpkin seeds properly before ingesting and ensure that they are fresh.
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Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of magnesium, a mineral that is vital for improved cardiovascular function.
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As per a study by the Journal of American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, a diet high in magnesium helps lower the risk of coronary heart diseases in men significantly (12). A quarter cup of pumpkin seeds accounts for almost half of your daily recommended intake of magnesium.
Caution
If you are taking warfarin, consult your doctor before including pumpkin seeds in your diet.
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Postmenopausal women often complain of symptoms like hot flashes, headaches, and joint pains. Pumpkin seeds are beneficial in providing relief from these symptoms.
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According to a study by Climacteric, pumpkin seed oil is rich in phytoestrogens that, apart from reducing the prevalence of postmenopausal symptoms, also increase the levels of HDL cholesterol (13).
Caution
Consult your doctor about the recommended dosage of pumpkin seed oil or supplements.
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A diet rich in fiber is essential in keeping your gut in good shape. Pumpkin seeds are a great fiber source (5.2 grams of fiber per ounce of whole pumpkin seeds).
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Fiber aids regular bowel movements and prevents conditions like constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids, gastrointestinal disease, and high cholesterol (14).
Caution
Avoid overindulging in pumpkin seeds as they are high in calories. Ensure that the pumpkin seeds are fresh and chew them properly to avoid indigestion.
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Given the fast-paced and competitive nature of life today, anxiety and stress have become common problems faced by people. Pumpkin seeds, yet again, work their magic by inducing a state of calmness.
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Pumpkin seeds contain the amino acid L-tryptophan that helps in the synthesis of serotonin, a chemical that enhances mood and prevents depression. The University of Michigan Health System reports that L-tryptophan also induces peaceful sleep (15).
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Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation of joints and it worsens with age. Studies suggest that pumpkin seeds can also help in the treatment of this condition.
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In an animal study conducted by Pharmacology Research, it was found that the anti-inflammatory properties of pumpkin seed oil helped reduce the inflammation caused by arthritis (16). The study reported that the effect of pumpkin seed oil was far more favorable than the anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin.
Caution
Consult your doctor about the recommended dosage of pumpkin seed oil or supplements.
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Your eyes are one of your most precious assets and protecting them is your duty. Including pumpkin seeds in your daily diet is a great way to improve your vision.
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Pumpkin seeds contain generous doses of vitamin A (almost twice your daily recommended intake). The National Institutes of Health reports that vitamin A improves vision, especially in dim light (17). Vitamin A enhances skin health as well.
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Pumpkin seeds contain phytosterols in large amounts and are thus helpful in managing cholesterol.
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Pumpkin seeds are among one of the best sources of phytosterols in the seeds and nuts family. 100 gm of pumpkin seeds contain 260 mg of phytosterols. As per a study by the Current Opinion in Lipidology, phytosterols help lower the levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, thereby reducing the risk of coronary heart diseases (18).
Caution
If your doctor has prescribed warfarin, consult him before including pumpkin seeds in your diet.
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Pumpkin seeds also possess remarkable anti-parasitic benefits.
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Pumpkin seeds provide a defensive barrier against pathogens that can cause numerous infections, some of which can even be life-threatening. A study conducted by the Journal of Gastroenterology of Peru reported the intestinal anti-parasitic benefits of pumpkin seeds (19).
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Another health benefit provided by pumpkin seeds is their activity against bladder stones.
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A study by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported that pumpkin seed supplementation in boys aged 2-7 years saw a decrease in the calcium oxalate crystal occurrence, owing to their high phosphorous content (20).
Caution
Be cautious while offering pumpkin seeds to a child; if not chewed on properly, they could choke him.
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Looking for the perfect snack to give yourself an energy boost? Pumpkin seeds are here to the rescue.
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Pumpkin seeds, being rich in iron and proteins, act as a great source of energy. They make an excellent pre-workout snack as opposed to sugary nutrition bars that give short spurts of energy.
Caution
Avoid overindulging in pumpkin seeds as they are high in calories and can lead to unwanted weight gain.
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There are numerous libido-boosting drugs out there in the market, but nothing beats natural measures like pumpkin seeds.
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Regular intake of pumpkin seeds helps improve prostate health, an essential factor for improved male sexual health (21). Pumpkin seeds also improve hormonal function in men. The amino acid myosin, contained in pumpkin seeds, is important for muscular contractions.
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With age, many women and men become susceptible to declining bone health. Turns out that increased bone density is another area where pumpkin seeds work their magic.
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Calcium isn’t the only nutrient essential for building healthy bones. There are a lot of other vitamins and minerals that are necessary for enhancing bone mineral density (22). Pumpkin seeds are a great source of magnesium, zinc, vitamin K, and numerous other bone-boosting nutrients that help lower the risk of osteoporosis.
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Hypertension is one of the leading causes of heart diseases in people. Pumpkin seeds are a great addition to the diets of those with a history of high blood pressure.
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Pumpkin seeds are low in sodium and high in potassium and magnesium, making them the perfect dietary inclusion to help regulate blood pressure (23).
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As per a study conducted by Nutrition and Cancer, the phytoestrogens extracted from pumpkin seeds display significant activity against breast cancer tumor cells (24). Pumpkin seeds are thus highly useful in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.
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Numerous studies conducted both on animals and humans have found the salutary activity of pumpkin seeds in providing relief from overactive bladder and urinary incontinence.
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The water-soluble part of the pumpkin seeds helps strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that tend to lose tone and become weak as women age. This is often a result of reduced levels of estrogen caused by menopause. Weakened pelvic floor muscles cause urinary incontinence (25).
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Neurodegeneration is extremely common among the aged. However, preventing it greatly depends on good lifestyle and dietary habits. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of alpha-linolenic acid (a type of omega-3 acid) that is essential for maintaining brain health.
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The Journal of Nutrition, Health, and Aging reports that polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially omega-3, help reduce the speed at which the brain ages and lower the turnover of membrane fatty acids caused by free radical damage (26).
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When your body is too acidic, you face an increased risk of chronic illnesses like osteoporosis, cancer, arthritis, diabetes, etc. It is, therefore, important that your diet comprises of enough alkaline foods to help your body maintain equilibrium at a pH of 7.635.
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Pumpkin seeds are one of the best alkaline-forming foods that you should include in your diet (27).
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Pumpkin seeds, being an excellent source of iron, help lower the risk of iron-deficiency anemia.
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A study conducted by BioFactors found that consumption of iron-rich foods like pumpkin seeds helps improve iron status in kids, adolescents, women of childbearing age and pregnant women (28). This makes them an excellent dietary supplement to reduce the risk of anemia caused by iron deficiency.
Caution
If you have an iron deficiency, make sure you consult your doctor about your ideal daily dosage of pumpkin seeds.
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Keep the high-sugar snacks aside and grab a fistful of healthful pumpkin seeds.
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The high fiber content in pumpkin seeds makes them a great addition to your morning breakfast. They induce the feeling of fullness for long periods and keep you from snacking pointlessly.
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Pumpkin seeds also help lower the risk of all-cause mortality.
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The magnesium contained in pumpkin seeds works its magic yet again. As per a study by Epidemiology (Cambridge, Mass.), a high intake of magnesium is associated with a 40% reduction in all-cause mortality and death from cardiovascular disease. Magnesium even helps with a 50% reduction in death caused by cancer (29).
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Caution
Here are a few considerations you should keep in mind before indulging in pumpkin seeds:
Selection
You can purchase pumpkin seeds from the natural foods section at any supermarket or grocery store. Pumpkin seeds are medium to dark green colored and are available in roasted, salted, raw, or whole forms. While selecting the pumpkin seeds, ensure that they appear fresh and healthy. Don’t buy the seeds if they look dehydrated and shrunken, or if they have a foul smell. Opt for organic varieties as they are free from harmful pesticides.
Storage
You can store roasted and dried pumpkin seeds in an airtight bottle in a cool and dark place for up to 15 days. If you want the seeds to last longer, store them in the freezer.
Though you always have the option of purchasing pumpkin seeds, here’s how you can prepare and enjoy pumpkin seeds at home:
Preparation
Usage
Wondering how you can make pumpkin seeds an interesting part of your everyday diet? Here are different ways to do it:
If you wish, you can also include pumpkin seed oil in your diet in the form of dietary capsules or liquid that you can use to dress salads or garnish food. You can purchase pumpkin seed oil or capsules from a pharmacy.
Nutritional Value Of Pumpkin Seeds
According to United States Department of Agriculture, following is the nutritional value provided by 1 cup of roasted pumpkin seeds (without salt).
Having learnt in detail about the numerous health wonders and the flexibility of using pumpkin seeds, we’re sure you’d want to include them in your daily dietary plan. However, it is always a good idea to check with your doctor about the ideal usage and safety of pumpkin seeds, based on your medical history.Do let us know your feedback about the article and feel free to pose any questions you may have about pumpkin seeds in the comments section below.