Insights & Discussion
Pumpkin seed oil, with its phytochemical content, shows beneficial properties against cardiovascular problems in menopausal women and hormone imbalances.
The study focused on gathering scientific information that highlights the potential of pumpkin seed oil as a health-benefiting food ingredient. Its focus is on the oil’s chemical composition, phytochemical content, biological activity, safety measures alongside the various production processes. The researchers examined major phytochemicals found in the oil, including polyphenols, phytoestrogens, and fatty acids, while also noting the potential health benefits of carotenoids, squalene, tocopherols, and minerals present in it.
In terms of methodology, most studies within this review were conducted in vitro to validate the oil's antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Furthermore, there were clinical studies undertaken specifically to observe the effect of the oil in addressing cardiovascular challenges in menopausal women and conditions related to sex hormone imbalances. The comprehensive overview covers a wide array of data on the composition and potential uses of pumpkin seed oil.
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Pumpkin seeds are recognised for their medicinal, nutritional, and cosmetic benefits, including anti-diabetic, heart disease prevention, anti-cancer, and antioxidant qualities.
2024 The Natural Products Journal Pumpkin Seeds (Cucurbita spp.) as a Nutraceutical Used In Various Lifestyle Disorders Wal A, Singh MR, Gupta A, Rathore S, Rout RR, Wal P
Review Article Anti-Parasite Anticancer Antioxidant
The review article undertakes a comprehensive exploration of the nutraceutical importance of pumpkin seeds. The methodology includes an examination of the various known substances in the seeds, such as phytoestrogens, unsaturated fatty acids, and vitamin E. The study then delves into the different benefits and therapeutic uses of these components stretching from medicinal to nutritional to cosmetic applications.
The results of this research are diverse and impressive, with implications for several major health sectors. Their potential anti-diabetic and hypoglycemic properties could suggest a significant role in the management and prevention of diabetes. Meanwhile, the seeds' potential in cardiovascular disease prevention could help to address one of the most pressing global health issues. Moreover, potential anti-cancer properties imply that these seeds could even have a part to play in cancer prevention. The review also described potential additional qualities, such as antidepressant, anti-helminthic (parasite-removing), and antioxidant effects.
Extract of pumpkin seeds displays estrogenic properties, potentially offering a solution to alleviate symptoms of menopausal syndromes resulting from estrogen deficiency.
2019 Phytotherapy Research Supplementation with extract of pumpkin seeds exerts estrogenic effects upon the uterine, serum lipids, mammary glands, and bone density in ovariectomized rats Lestari B, Walidah Z, Utomo RY, Murwanti R, Meiyanto E
Experimental Study HDL-C LDL Menopause
In the study, scientists conduct in vitro analysis using a colorimetric-based assay on kidney cells derived from Chinese hamsters. Furthermore, they perform in vivo experiments involving 7-week old female rats that were specially prepared to model menopausal conditions. These rats are split into differing groups, each receiving a different dosage of pumpkin seed extract. Other observable parameters include uterine weight, condition of mammary glands, serum lipid levels, and bone density measured after a period of 30 days. The researchers also utilize a computer-based technique called molecular docking to investigate how certain active compounds in the pumpkin seed extract respond to estrogen receptors.
Separately, this study indicates the pumpkin seed extract's positive impact on uterine weight and mammary gland health in rats, demonstrating properties similar to the hormone 17β-estradiol. Additionally, consumption of the extract led to improved lipid profile - with increased levels of good cholesterol and decreased bad cholesterol- and improved bone density. The study suggests that these beneficial results align with the growth of bone-building cells and decrease in bone-resorbing cells. The digital validation confirms the strength of interactions between active compounds found in the extract and the estrogen receptors.