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Focus on Herbs:
Pumpkin Seed
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by Lynne Latella
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Pumpkins are synonymous
with fall. Usually thought of for pies and jack-o-lantern carvings, the
best part of the pumpkin is what’s inside — the seeds. Pumpkin, which
is native to the Americas, is in the gourd family. Its relatives are
melons, squash and cucumbers.
From the Greek word pepon, meaning “sun baked or ripe,” pumpkin seeds
were not only a dietary staple of native Americans, but also an
excellent remedy for a host of maladies. Peruvian Indians used them as
an offering to the gods in burial sites. The Navajos used them to
relieve pain from burns. Cherokees found them helpful in cases of gout,
stones, urinary problems and edema. The Pueblos used them for gout and
joint swelling. Zunis eliminated tapeworm, and voodoo witchdoctors
cured diarrhea and fever with the use of pumpkin seeds. It was
introduced to the Conquistadors, who eventually brought it back to
Europe.
Pumpkin seeds were adopted into Chinese medicine around the 17th
century, when pumpkin was known as “the emperor of the garden.” In this
culture, it was a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Perhaps it is
because the seeds are rich in antioxidants A, C and E; and minerals,
including the rare myosin (a primary substance found in most muscle),
fiber and essential fatty acids. In addition, pumpkin contains more
beta carotene than carrots.
Called a male tonic, pumpkin seeds can maintain prostate health or
revitalize it. They are a good source of zinc, which may be beneficial
to prostate health. Ingredients in pumpkin seed oil helps to stop
prostate cell multiplication. There may also be a health connection for
between the seeds and osteoporosis, which can be an issue not only for
menopausal women, but also for men over 50.
As a diuretic, the seeds can sooth irritated tissues and relieve
inflammation. They also can alleviate motion sickness and general
nausea. Japanese research has revealed that the seeds may be helpful in
treating certain kinds of cancer. The seeds have been known to kill and
expel worms and parasites, and its phytosterols may lower cholesterol.
Although sesame seeds and pistachio nuts are high in phytosterols,
pumpkin is the highest. The oil of pumpkin seeds has been used to heal
wounds, burns and chapped skin.
Considered a dietary staple in Mexico, pumpkin seeds can be added to
breads, cereals, salads, sauces and main dishes. Eaten as a snack, they
can be served as is, or roasted in the oven with herbs or spices. It is
best to roast them at a low temperature, around 170° for 20 to 30
minutes to help preserve the beneficial oil contained in the seeds.
HaBA manager Kathleen Boehning notes, “Pumpkin seeds are a natural
source for l-tryptophan. We now carry a powdered drink called Zen Brew
— and all it is is powdered pumpkin seeds!” The Co-op also carries
pumpkin seeds in compounds and oil. The seeds are available in the bulk
aisle.
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