Characteristics
- Botanical name: Cucurbita pepo
- Botanical family: Cucurbitaceae
- Cucurbitaceae: Cucurbit
- Origin: America, Europe, Asia
- Plant part: Seed
- Oxidative potential: Not very sensitive
Organoleptic characteristics
Botanical and organoleptic characteristics may vary according to production conditions (country, sun, organic production, etc.).
- Colour: brown
- Smell: light, reminiscent of pumpkin
- Feel: Coarse
- Taste: Sweet, reminiscent of pumpkin with a hint of hazelnut.
Fatty acid composition
The composition of vegetable oils is strongly influenced by the conditions under which they are produced.
To guarantee its quality, it is advisable to choose an extra virgin oil obtained by cold pressing.
In addition, experts generally recommend choosing organic pumpkin seed oil.
Polyunsaturated AG:
- 47-55% linoleic acid (omega 6)
Monounsaturated AG:
- 25-19% oleic acid (omega 9)
Saturated fatty acids
- 13% palmitic acid
- 8% stearic acid
Other active ingredients
- Unsaponifiables: Phytosterols
- Carotenoids: beta-carotene, lutein
- Vitamins: Vitamin E
- Trace Elements and Minerals: Zinc
Nutritional aspect
When taken orally, pumpkin seed oil can provide a number of benefits to the body.
Its nutritional composition is particularly beneficial for the cardiovascular, digestive, urinary and prostate systems.
Main advantages
- Diuretic
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antihypertensive
- Cardioprotective
- Anthelmintic
Indications
- Prostate problems, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Urinary problems, including symptoms associated with an overactive bladder
- Digestive disorders
- Inflammatory pain
- Diabetes
- Atherosclerosis
- Dewormer (Taenia, Ascaris)
- Helps fight mouth ulcers
- Cares for mature, wrinkled skin, prevents skin ageing
- Cares for skin that has been damaged, especially by the cold
- Treats dry, brittle hair
- Prevents hair loss, particularly in men
Health tips
Pumpkin seed oil should not be heated. It is only used raw, especially as a dressing for salads or grilled vegetables.
Pumpkin seed oil is also used in the composition of certain dietary supplements.
However, it is important to remember that vegetable oils should be consumed in moderation, as they provide a large amount of lipids.
In addition, experts generally recommend that you vary the type of vegetable oil you use to diversify your intake.
Precautionary measures
Pumpkin seed oil is very well tolerated by the body.
However, medical advice is recommended for young children, pregnant and breastfeeding women.