Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin Seed Oil (First Cold Press) - Cucurbita pepo L. -

Pumpkin seed oil, or Cucurbita pepo, is extracted by pressing raw pumpkin seeds. The process must be done cold to preserve all the seed's properties. Otherwise, as with refined oils, nutrients and medicinal properties are lost. From a therapeutic and medicinal perspective, pumpkin seed oil is valued for its nutritional qualities and health benefits.

This is a very beneficial plant oil, known for helping to protect the prostate. It inhibits the formation of cancerous-type cells and reduces prostate gland enlargement. Additionally, it helps maintain healthy urinary tracts.

Pumpkin seed oil is not recommended for frying or heating to high temperatures. When subjected to such processes, its composition and thus its nutritional value are altered.

Properties

As mentioned, pumpkin seed oil provides numerous properties and health benefits. This oil contains beneficial fatty acids, including oleic acid (omega-9) and linoleic acid (omega-3). It also contains a wealth of vitamins, especially from the B group, specifically vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, and B6, as well as vitamins E and K.

Other components include flavonoids, antioxidants that prevent premature cell aging. For this reason, it is highly recommended for men, as it helps prevent prostate cancer.

This oil also contains cucurbitacin and minerals such as selenium, iron, zinc, magnesium, potassium, and copper. Additionally, it is high in fiber and contains tryptophan, an essential amino acid. Thanks to all these components, pumpkin seed oil is used as an anti-inflammatory, decongestant, expectorant, diuretic, anti-tumor, hypoglycemic agent, and provides numerous benefits for the body.

Nutritional content of pumpkin seed oil includes:

Carbohydrates: 5%.
Proteins: 40%.
Unsaturated fatty acids: 40%.
Fiber: 15%.
Vitamins D, E, B1, B2, B3, and B6.
Minerals: magnesium, manganese, iron, potassium, copper, and zinc.
Cucurbitacin and phytosterols.

Pumpkin seed oil is nutritionally rich. Due to its high mineral content, it is often recommended for those suffering from demineralization or who have hair loss and brittle nails. It is also used in cases of calcium loss. Contrary to what many still believe, studies confirm that dairy products can be detrimental to bone health. Foods like almonds or pumpkin seed oil help restore calcium levels. Just three teaspoons of this oil daily can help prevent tooth decay, hair loss, and brittle nails.

Another noteworthy benefit of this oil is its antiparasitic power. It prevents intestinal parasites, such as tapeworms, and can be safely consumed by children and pregnant women. For its antiparasitic effect, a one-day fast is recommended, with a teaspoon of oil every three hours and plenty of water. On the second day, soft foods like papaya, yogurt, or fibrous foods can be consumed to help cleanse the intestines.

Contraindications
Pumpkin seed oil also has contraindications due to its anticoagulant effects, resulting from salicylic acid and omega-3. If you are taking other anticoagulant medications or aspirin regularly, it’s important to monitor consumption. Lastly, it is contraindicated for individuals with celiac disease, as it may cause gas and discomfort.

Apart from these minor contraindications, pumpkin seed oil is highly beneficial for health, especially for men, as it is a great ally for prostate health.