Pumpkin Seeds

The familiar Halloween pumpkin is a member of the squash family, native to North and Central America.

Although pumpkin originated in America, is now grown worldwide.  It shares its family tree with melons and cucumbers.  Seeds of this group used to be ground into a paste and prescribed for fevers, bowel disorders, and urinary complaints.

History; Source

The seeds of the pumpkin were used medicinally in Native American medicine, primarily for the treatment of kidney, bladder, and digestive problems.  From 1863 to 1936, the United States Pharmacopoeia listed pumpkin seeds as a treatment for intestinal parasites.

Coarsely ground Pumpkin Seed is the usual preparation.  Whole seeds may also be used.  Store away from light and moisture.

Function; Why it is Recommended

Researchers do not know why Pumpkin Seed eases urinary problems, but clinical studies leave no doubt that it does.  The seeds also exhibit antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory properties.

Some studies have shown that pumpkin seed, or its constituent curcurbitin, has shown some activity against intestinal parasites.

Two studies performed in Thailand hinted that pumpkin seed snacks might help prevent kidney stones among children at high risk for developing them.  However, this research only looked at chemical changes in the urine suggestive of a possible preventive effect, not actual reduction of stones.  Furthermore, the design of the studies did not reach modern standards.

Pumpkin Seed has been used for a variety of problems for which its effectiveness is unconfirmed, including kidney inflammation, intestinal parasites – especially tapeworm – and wounds.  In Asian medicine it is used to treat worms, diabetes, and water retention.  Homeopathic practitioners prescribe it for nausea and seasickness.

Instructions

Pumpkin Seed is taken orally.  The usual daily dosage is 1 to 2 heaped teaspoonfuls of ground Pumpkin Seed with liquid in the morning and evening.  Your total daily intake should average 10grams daily.

In studies, the dose of pumpkin seed oil used for the treatment of BPH was 160mg three times daily.  For the prevention of kidney stones, the dose of pumpkin seed snack tried was 5-10gm per day.