Pumpkin seed oil has many he alth properties, which is why it has been used in alternative medicine. Pumpkin seed oil is recommended primarily for parasites, as well as prostate and urinary tract diseases. In cosmetics, it is used to strengthen the hair and moisturize the skin. In the kitchen, pumpkin seed oil can be added to vanilla ice cream or cheesecake. Check the effects of pumpkin seed oil and how to use it.
Pumpkin seed oilthanks to itshe alth propertieshas long been foundusedin folk medicine , incl. as a remedyagainst parasitesgastrointestinal,prostateand inflammation of the urinary tract, infections of the upper respiratory tract, and allergies. Some argue that if consumed regularly, it can prevent atherosclerosis, body weakness and depression - all thanks to the content of beneficial unsaturated acids. However, the fatty acid profile of pumpkin seed oil is not as favorable as is commonly believed. Pumpkin seed oil in 18.8 percent. consists of saturated fatty acids. The rest are unsaturated fatty acids, for which 33.4 percent. consists of monounsaturated acids, and 47.8 percent. polyunsaturated acids.
Pumpkin seed oil also contains vitamins A, E, D and B vitamins. It also contains selenium, potassium and zinc as well as other substances such as squalene and phytosterols.
The majority of polyunsaturated fatty acids are omega-6 fatty acids. Unfortunately, pumpkin seed oil contains trace amounts of omega-3 fatty acids (about 0.5%). On the other hand, in other studies, no presence of linolenic acid (from the omega-3 group) was found in pumpkin seed oil. Consequently, the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids is very unfavorable. It has been proven that excessive consumption of omega-6 rich foods combined with omega-3 deficiency may promote the development of neoplasms, e.g. breast cancer (especially in postmenopausal women). Therefore, when deciding to increase the consumption of pumpkin seed oil, you must remember to supplement (supplement) the deficiency of linolenic acid to maintain an appropriate ratio of omega-6 fatty acids andomega-3.
Pumpkin seed oil for parasites
Modern phytotherapy recommends the use ofpumpkin seed oil against parasitesof the digestive system. The alkaloids it contains, called cucurbitacins, damage the nervous system of gastrointestinal parasites (tapeworms, roundworms or pinworms) and accelerate the process of their removal from the body, while also removing other toxic substances. Pumpkin seed oil does not irritate the gastric and intestinal mucosa, therefore it is safe for the functioning of the digestive system.
Pumpkin seed oil for prostate gland
Pumpkin seed oil is a component of dietary supplements for men that are recommended for benign prostatic hyperplasia (in the early stages of hypertrophy), urination disorders or potency disorders. These types of preparations have a positive effect on the proper functioning of the prostate gland and normalize the urination process. These properties are due to the phytosterols contained in pumpkin oil (especially beta-sitosterol), which act very similar to the sex hormones. The proper level of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is responsible for the proper functioning of the prostate. The task of phytosterols is to reduce the excessive concentration of DHT, which leads to a reduction in the weight of the prostate gland and, consequently, to alleviate the unpleasant ailments associated with prostatic hypertrophy.
Pumpkin seed oil - use in the kitchen
Pumpkin seed oil has a characteristic nutty flavor and aroma. In addition, it is distinguished by a dark green color, which makes it one of the darkest oils. All because of the content of chlorophyll pigments, which in it is over six times greater than that of carotenoids.
The oil should not be fried, because the high temperature destroys the he alth-promoting substances contained in it. Pumpkin seed oil is used only cold, as an addition to bread, vegetables, cottage cheese, boiled eggs, as well as salads, salads and for direct consumption. Pumpkin seed oil goes well with desserts - it can enrich the flavor of vanilla ice cream or cheesecake (in Austria it is added to the famous Viennese cheesecake).
Pumpkin seeds are dried and then ground, mixed with s alt water and roasted. The last step is cold pressing of the oil.
Pumpkin seed oil should be stored in a dry and dark place at a temperature not higher than 20 degrees C. Despite the high content of fatty acids, which usually oxidize and go rancid quickly, the oil can be stored for up to 3 months (of course in a sealed package). All thanks to the content of antioxidants(mainly vitamin E). Oil stored in the refrigerator may thicken, which will disappear shortly after you take it out.
Pumpkin seed oil - use in cosmetics
Pumpkin seed oil massaged into the skin moisturizes it, improves its tension, reduces wrinkles, supports the fight against acne, soothes irritations and supports regenerative processes. Another of its advantages is supporting anti-cellulite treatments. In addition, it will help to deal with scars - including stretch marks. Due to the dark and intense color that can contribute to the color of the skin, it is better to dilute it with a small amount of water or other light oil before use.
Pumpkin seed oilalso has a positive effecton the hair . It makes them stronger and shinier, and the ends are less split.
Bibliography:
1. Łoźna K., Kita A., Styczyńska M., Biernat J.,Fatty acid composition of oils recommended in the prevention of civilization diseases , "Problems of Hygiene and Epidemiology" 2012, No. 93.
2. Walczak Z., Starzycki M.,Assessment of the profile of fatty acids in cold-pressed oils in the context of their recommendation in the nutrition of physically active people , "Bromatologia i Chemia Toksykologiczna" 2013, No. 3
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