Botanical Overview
Cucurbita pepo, belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, is a widely cultivated plant known primarily for its seeds, commonly referred to as pumpkin seeds. The seeds (semen) are the primary parts used medicinally. Common names include pumpkin seed, green pumpkin seed, and pepo seed. This species is native to Europe, North America, and the Mediterranean region.
Energetics
The seeds have a neutral temperature and moistening moisture quality. They taste sweet and oily, with a tonifying effect on the body’s fluids (qi_blood_fluid: fluid). Directionality is not specifically documented.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anhelmintic
- Demulcent
- Diuretic
- Antioxidant
- Prostate supportive
Indications
Western
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms
- Overactive bladder
- Urinary disorders
- Mild inflammation
- Intestinal parasites
Syndromes
- Benign prostatic hypertrophy
- Urinary retention
- Irritable bladder
TCM
No clear authorized traditional uses documented.
Ayurveda
- Urinary disorders
- General debility
Unani
- Bladder irritability
- Urinary infections
Constituents & Mechanisms
The seeds contain fatty acids, phytosterols, carotenoids, vitamins, tocopherols, squalene, and cucurbitins, contributing to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and diuretic properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Raw or roasted seeds daily (20-30 g)
- Pumpkin seed oil 1-2 mL 1-3 times daily
- Powder 1-3 g daily
- Extract capsules: standardized doses vary (e.g., 500 mg 1-2x/day)
Safety & Contraindications
Generally well tolerated; caution in cases of allergy to the cucurbit family. No significant adverse effects documented. Pregnant and lactating women should consult healthcare providers before use. Potential interactions include additive effects with anticoagulants and diuretics.
Astrological Correspondences
No clear planetary or elemental rulers reliably sourced for Cucurbita pepo semen.
Selected References
- Cucurbita pepo L., semen: Assessment report on Cucurbita pepo L., semen – EMA, 2014
- Cucurbita pepo – Plant For A Future (PFAF)
- Pumpkin seed oil for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: A review of experimental and clinical data – Oelke M, et al., 2009