Pumpkin Seed Benefits

Pumpkin, a type of squash, is native to the Americas. Native Americans relished the seeds for their flavor and properties of healing. Pumpkin seeds are found everywhere today but are still grown in greatest abundance not far from the area where they are believed to have originated: Mexico. Other large producers include India, the United States and China. Though largely still in the early stages of exploration, there are claims of health benefits by pumpkin seeds for various conditions.

General Nutrition

The composition of pumpkin seeds includes many naturally occurring minerals, especially magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, iron, copper and zinc. Vitamins also appear in significant numbers with riboflavin (B2), thiamin (B1), vitamin B6, niacin (B3), vitamin A, folate, pantothenic acid and in particular vitamin K topping the list.

Arthritis

Pumpkin seeds may be helpful in the treatment of arthritis. Not unlike Indocin (sold under the generic name Indomethacin), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, pumpkin seeds have a positive effect on symptoms of arthritis including stiffness, pain and swelling. Unlike Indomethacin, there are no known side effects of using gourd seeds in this manner, such as an increase in the amount of damaged fats, also known as lipid peroxides, that can line the joints and increase the severity of arthritis.

Bone Health

Pumpkin seeds may be beneficial for bone health. Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, which has a positive effect on bone density. Osteoporosis has been linked to low levels of zinc in the body, specifically resulting in the weakening of bone in the hip and spine.

Intestines

Pumpkin seeds are thought to be a treatment for intestinal problems. Gastritis is occasionally treated in some parts of the world by ingesting pumpkin seeds. Native American tribes traditionally used pumpkin seeds as a cure for parasites such as tapeworm and roundworm. Pumpkin seeds are still used in this manner and are usually ingested with juice, followed by a laxative.

L-triptophan

Pumpkin seeds also contain a compound called L-triptophan. L-triptophan has been labeled by many as a remedy for depression. At this time there is insufficient research evidence to verify this claim. However, L-triptophan is an amino acid, and one that the human body cannot create. It is a necessary component of nutrition in moderate levels.

Prostate Health

Though still in the early phases of study, components of pumpkin seed oil are thought to possibly have some effect on prostate health. Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) is characterized by the enlargement of the prostate gland through prostate cell stimulation by testosterone and dihydrotestosterone. Oil from the seed may work to slow cell multiplication.