Many cultivated varieties of the pumpkin plant render fruit weighing from half a kilogram to more than fifty.
- ORGANIC PUMPKIN – Fresh, sweet, pumpkin may just be the next great superfood. Pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween anymore. Those scary jack-o’-lanterns actually pack a powerful nutritional punch and provide a unique fatty acid profile that may put this food in a class of its own.
Pumpkin Plant Scientific Facts
- Similar species: Curcubita melopepo L., Curcubita ovifera L., Curcubita verrucose L., Curcubita maxima Duch.
- Scientific synonyms: Cucurbita pepo L.
- Other names: Field Pumpkin.
- French: Citrouille
- Spanish: Calabacera, zapallo.
- Environment: Some varieties are native to the Middle East, and others are native to America. They grow in humid, hot climate soils and are currently cultivated worldwide.
- Description: This Annual plant in the Cucurbitaceae family has a climbing or creeping stem up to 8 m high. It has large leaves covered by urticant hairs and exuberant yellow flowers.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The fruit (seeds and flesh).
Healing Properties and Indications
The pumpkin plant seeds, especially the germ, contain up to thirty-five percent oil, proteins rich in essential amino acids, and cucurbitacin. This active component presents the following properties and indications:
- Antiprostatic. The most frequent prostate affliction, adenoma (benign tumor), manifests itself in mature aged men through loss of strength in urinating, pollakiuria (an urge to urinate often in only small amounts), especially at night and after traveling seated, and in severe cases, complete inability to urinate.
Cucurbitacin in pumpkin seeds acts mainly on the prostate, reducing inflammation and slowing hypertrophy (enlargement). This is because cucurbitacin blocks the division of glandular prostate cells (antimitotic properties), thus retarding the enlargement of this vital gland.
However, one has to remember that while pumpkin plant seeds can hinder prostate enlargement and thus alleviate the discomforts mentioned above, they can never reduce the already-formed excessive growth. - Urinary anti-inflammatory. The active component of pumpkin seeds also acts on the urinary bladder, reducing inflammation and relaxing it. Hence, pumpkin seeds are recommended for cystitis, urinary infection, urinary incontinence, cystocele (protrusion of the urinary bladder), and neurogenic urinary bladder (an irritation that manifests via a constant urge to urinate).
- Vermifuge. Cucurbitacin detaches the head of taeniae (tapeworms) from the intestine walls. It is also effective against other intestinal parasites, such as ascaridae. Once the worm is detached, a purgative substance must be taken to promote the expulsion of parasites.
This effective vermifuge action of pumpkin seeds is risk-free. Therefore, pumpkin seeds are ideal for children with intestinal parasites, especially tapeworms or roundworms.
The flesh of the pumpkin plant, roasted or boiled, is rich in sugars (carbohydrates). It has soothing, mild diuretic, and anti-inflammatory properties on the digestive system. It is therefore recommended for people suffering from the following afflictions:
- Digestive disorders, such as dyspepsia, stomach acidity, constipation, and intestinal fermentation or putrefaction.
- Hemorrhoids, because of their soothing and mild laxative properties.
- Renal disorders (always as a complementary treatment) include renal insufficiency, nephritis or glomerulonephritis, edema (retention of fluids), and kidney stones.
Pumpkin Seeds
For centuries, pumpkin seeds have been used to eliminate parasites from the intestines and large bowels. These seeds are from the pumpkins harvested in hundreds of gardens in the fall. The seeds are plentiful. You can consume large pumpkin seeds as a safe worm expeller (anthelmintic). It is a safe remedy for both adults and children. The seeds can also be used to treat irritable bladder and prostate issues.
In external applications, pumpkin seed oil is used to heal chapped skin, wounds, and burns.
NOTE: Be careful with tapeworms. Make sure that the entire worm is ejected.
Crush seven to fourteen ounces of seeds for children and up to twenty-five ounces for adults; stir into your favorite fruit juice to make a mashed concoction to be eaten. After two to three hours, take castor oil to expel the worms.
How to use Pumpkin Plant
- The SEEDS can be taken when fresh, dry, or cooked, in 50-100 g, two or three times a day.
- When used to combat intestinal parasites, we recommend following this method:
– Fast for twelve hours (consuming only water) from the evening before starting the treatment.
– Weigh 200-400 g of seeds with rind (adults can take up to 800 g). Once peeled, mash them in a mortar. Some sugar can be added to the resulting paste.
Distribute the paste into three equal portions for breakfast, lunch, and supper. Eat only carrots, which also have antihelmintic properties, throughout the day.
– One hour after the third meal, administer a purgative substance (for instance, tinnevelly senna, cascara sagrada infusions, a couple of spoonfuls of castor bean oil, or fruit salts).
– Observe feces. If parasites have not been expelled, repeat the process in two or three days.
Frequently Asked Question
I usually think about the pumpkin flesh itself. Do pumpkin plant seeds offer anything unique?
Yes! Pumpkin seeds are a nutritional powerhouse. They are a concentrated source of:
Zinc: Important for immune function, wound healing, and possibly reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Magnesium: A crucial mineral for regulating blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and heart health.
Healthy Fats: Contain heart-healthy omega-3s and other beneficial unsaturated fats.
Antioxidants: Offer protection against inflammation and cell damage.
What about pumpkin plant leaves? Are they edible and beneficial?
Absolutely! Pumpkin plant leaves are not only edible but highly nutritious. They are rich in:
Vitamin A – Key for eye health and immune function.
Vitamin C – A powerful antioxidant.
Iron – Essential for carrying oxygen in the blood.
Fiber – Important for digestive health and blood sugar management.
Folate – Crucial for healthy fetal development during pregnancy
I’ve heard pumpkins are good for gut health. Why?
The high fiber of pumpkin flesh and seeds benefits your gut bacteria and overall digestive health. This fiber supports regular bowel movements, helps manage blood sugar levels, and may even reduce the risk of colon cancer.
Can the pumpkin plant benefit my heart health?
Yes, in several ways:
Fiber – Helps to lower cholesterol levels.
Potassium – Found in pumpkin flesh, it helps regulate blood pressure.
Vitamin C and antioxidants protect against cell damage that contributes to heart disease.
Are there any benefits specific to men’s health?
Due to their high zinc content, Pumpkin seeds are particularly beneficial for men’s health. Zinc is essential for prostate health and plays a role in testosterone production and sperm health.
Can pumpkins assist with weight management?
Due to their low-calorie density and high fiber content, pumpkin flesh and seeds can help manage weight. Fiber promotes a feeling of fullness, which may help reduce overall calorie intake.
I struggle with inflammation. Can the pumpkin plant be helpful?
Pumpkin contains several anti-inflammatory compounds. The antioxidants, including beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E, help combat inflammation and protect against cellular damage.
Do pumpkins have any impact on my immune system?
Yes! Pumpkin flesh and leaves contain Vitamins A and C, which support a healthy immune system. Additionally, zinc in pumpkin seeds plays a role in immune response and wound healing.
Can the pumpkin plant affect my skin and hair?
The rich antioxidant content, particularly beta-carotene and vitamin C helps protect your skin from sun damage and may promote a youthful appearance. Vitamin A is also known for its potential benefits for hair health.
How do I incorporate the whole pumpkin plant into my diet?
Get creative!
Pumpkin flesh: Use in soups, stews, baked goods, or enjoy roasted.
Pumpkin seeds: Snack on them roasted, sprinkle on salads, or add to yogurt.
Pumpkin leaves: Sautéed, add to stir fry, or use in soups (check cooking instructions online, as in many cultures, these are a staple food)
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 605, 606. Print.
- Vance Ferrell Harold M. Cherne, M.D. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia [Book]. – Altamont, TN: Harvestime Books, 2010. – Vol. Seventh Edition: 7: pp. 176.
- Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pumpkin-nutrition-review
- PharmEasy: https://pharmeasy.in/blog/health-benefits-of-pumpkin-seeds/
- Be Bodywise: https://bebodywise.com/blog/pumpkin-leaves/
Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API