Cold pressed pumpkin seed oil is full of vitamins (A, E, F), macro and micro nutrients (Fe, Mg, Zn, Se, etc), anti-inflammatory agencies, along with linoleic and oleic acid. The oil’s characteristically dark color results from high contents of chlorophyll and carotene in the seeds’ coats.
Here’s what you need to know about cold pressed pumpkin seed oil potential health benefits:
Possible treatment for blood pressure, prevention of heart disease
It helps to strengthen and increase the elasticity of the walls of blood vessels. Most of the fat in pumpkin seed oil is polyunsaturated fat, specifically omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Research has shown that these essential fatty acids can help lower your LDL (bad) cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular disease. You’ll also get a small amount of monounsaturated fat when you consume pumpkin seed oil. Monounsaturated fats are considered good fats because they can help boost your HDL or “good” cholesterol levels.
Support health of stomach
It has anti-inflammatory and wound healing effects on the mucous membranes of the intestines and stomach, helps to normalize the acidity of gastric juice, which is why it is used as part of the prevention and complex treatment of gastritis;
Urinary tract health
Research has linked pumpkin seed oil to improved prostate health and relief from overactive bladder.
A study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine found that when study participants consumed pumpkin seed oil as an extract for 12 weeks, they found relief from overactive bladder symptoms.
Effects on mental health
Traditionally, pumpkin seed oil and pumpkin seeds in general have been said to boost mood and ward off depression. Past findings from the British Journal of Psychiatry showed positive results from giving pumpkin seeds to children with depression.
Relief of menopausal symptoms
A pilot study conducted on 35 menopausal women found that those who took pumpkin seed oil experienced increases in HDL cholesterol, a decrease in diastolic blood pressure, and fewer menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, headaches, and joint pain.
Help reduce hair loss
Pumpkin seed oil has been linked to positive effects on hair growth, especially in men. A study published in Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that when men took 400 milligrams of pumpkin seed oil per day (in capsule form) for 24 weeks, they saw an increase in hair growth.
Effect on skin
It promotes active moisturizing, nourishing and softening the skin, giving it firmness and elasticity.
Cooking and recipes tips
Cold pressed pumpkin seed oil is a versatile product that can be used in a variety of different recipes. You may use it in salad dressings by combined with vinegar, salt and other ingredients, marinades, drizzled over pasta or roasted vegetables, mixed into dips or creamy salads. You may even pour a small amount of pumpkin seed oil over ice cream; the nutty flavor of the oil imparts a unique taste.
This cooking oil is not stable at higher temperatures. Cold pressed pumpkin seed oil has a smoke point of 160°C (320°F) or lower, so it should not be used for frying, sautéing, stir-frying, or other forms of cooking.
A typical serving of pumpkin seed oil is 2 teaspoons, which has 80 calories and 9 grams of fat.