Pumpkin Seeds, Curcubita Pepo

We are in the fall season and in October I think of the harvest and pumpkins in particular. Pumpkins are used around Halloween for Jack O' Lanterns. They are also made into delicious pies for Thanksgiving celebrations. These days it seems there is pumpkin in everything from donuts to pies, breads, soups and flavored coffee. Pumpkins are a member of the squash family. They are full of seeds inside and these seeds are very useful and popular for snacking and for health purposes.

Pumpkin seeds were used by the Aztecs in South America and are associated with Central American, Mexican and Native American foods. Squashes which are related to pumpkins, have been grown for centuries in Europe and Russia. The seeds have been a seasonal snack in these countries.

Pumpkins are a powerhouse of nutrition containing minerals like magnesium, manganese, potassium, copper and zinc. They also contain phytosterols which are antioxidants.They have the amino acids tryptophan and glutamate. Pumpkin seeds also contain vitamin C, Vitamin E, vitamin K and the B-complex vitamins. Pumpkin seeds are high in magnesium which is supports heart health

Pumpkin seeds are known for their benefits to Men's prostate health, primarily because of their zinc content. They are also helpful for postmenopausal women. They help to decrease blood pressure, headaches, hot flashes and other problems that come with menopause. The raw seeds are a good source of omega-3s. Pumpkin seeds are traditionally used for parasites in the body. They were used traditionally to eliminate tapeworms.

Some studies show that pumpkin seeds are anti-inflammatory and there is some evidence that they are helpful for folks with arthritis. They are reputed to be a diuretic and are thought to help detox the liver and kidneys. I like the seeds shelled and roasted with salt. They make a great snack that is loaded with  nutrition.

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/09/30/pumpkin-seed-benefits.aspx
http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/pumpkin-seeds.html
http://pioneerthinking.com/health/benefits-of-pumpkin-seeds-for-men

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Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Ten Spices for Health and Longevity
valerielull923@gmail.com