Though pumpkins are commonly associated with autumn and Halloween, this is not the only time to bring them out. Pumpkin seeds are extremely healthful and they are available year round. Their seeds and the oil they contain have long been used in medicine for a variety of different reasons. Pumpkin seeds are harvested from special Styrian pumpkins which are grown worldwide. They are pressed for the oil and because these seeds have no shell they are relatively easy to derive the oil from. Pumpkin seed oil has numerous health benefits, five of which are listed below:
2. Contains a wide variety of vitamins and minerals. Pumpkin seeds and oil contain high amounts of zinc, vitamin E, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, calcium and vitamin K. Iron is essential for our body to make new blood cells, calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, and magnesium helps our nerves and muscles to function properly.
3. They promote prostate health. Benign prostatic hypertrophy affects many men over the age of 50. This condition is caused by an enlargement of the prostate gland. Pumpkin seed oil actually helps to interrupt the triggering of prostate cells. The seeds also contain carotenoids which decrease the risk of this condition.
4. Helps regulate cholesterol. Pumpkin seeds contain phytosterols which are believed to reduce blood levels of cholesterol and enhance the immune system.
5. They are good for arthritis. The healing powers of pumpkin seeds can help reduce the effects of arthritis because they act as an anti-inflammatory. In some studies the effect of pumpkin seeds on arthritis is comparable to that of an anti-arthritis drug called Indomethacin without the side effects.
