Pumpkin seeds have been shown to provide neuropharmacological benefits such as reducing anxiety and depression, and improving memory.
Animal Study Depression Pumpkin Seed
The study evaluated the effects of pumpkin seeds on four areas - anxiety, depression, memory, and motor coordination. Anxiety was tested using models like light and dark apparatus, elevated plus maze, head dip, and open field test, while depression was assessed by the forced swim test and tail suspension test. Memory and learning abilities were gauged through the passive avoidance test, stationary rod apparatus, and Morris's water maze test. The effect on motor skilled learning was assessed by stationary rod and rotarod apparatus. Finally, the levels of brain biogenic amines were determined using reversed phase high-pressure liquid chromatography.
In the results evaluation, it was found that pumpkin seeds exhibit properties that help reduce anxiety and alleviate depression, while also enhancing memory. However, they showed no significant effects on motor coordination. An elevated level of norepinephrine was observed, possibly contributing to its antidepressant effects. Furthermore, a reduction in the weight of the animal was observed after chronic administration. These benefits are probably due to the seeds' secondary metabolites like cucurbitacin, beta-sitosterol, polyphenolic compounds, citrulline, kaempferol, arginine, beta-carotene, quercetin, and other antioxidants.
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