Did you know that pumpkin oil is packed with healthy fats such as linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties? Roasting pumpkin seeds destroys much of the nutrition inside. They might still be a good source of fiber and vitamins, but the roasting changes them to a reasonably healthy snack instead of healthy food.
A Happy Heart
The oil in pumpkin seeds can help reduce your risk ofΒ heart disease. The oil is high in phytosterols which researchers believe will help reduce LDL cholesterol. Studies have found that pumpkin oil with these phytosterols lowers LDL absorption when taken with a meal containing cholesterol.
Menopause Relief
People going through menopause may need pumpkin oil to help them sleep and avoid hot flashes. The phytoestrogens in pumpkin seed oil help postmenopausal women because they help them feel better. They can help with headaches, hot flashes, joint pain, and blood pressure.
Slow Down Baldness
If you suffer from male pattern baldness because of high levels of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), pumpkin oil may help slow down the progression. Beta-sitosterol is a phytochemical that blocks the conversion of testosterone into DHT. If that is not enough, the pumpkin oil has delta-7-sterol, which blocks DHT in a completely different way. Research is being done, and there has been some evidence that pumpkin oil will be effective in slowing down male pattern baldness.
Prostate Health
Recent research has found that combing pumpkin seed oil with palmetto oil could effectively treat benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH). It is a fairly common condition where the prostate enlarges. BPH blocks the flow of urine and is extremely painful. A study done in Korea found that pumpkin oil and palmetto oil helped improve symptoms and aid with a better urinary flow.
Skin RejuvenationΒ
Pumpkin seed oilΒ boasts fatty acids that have antioxidant properties. Researchers have discovered that when applied topically, the oil can reduce skin inflammation and help to stimulate the growth of new cells. Pumpkin oil can help defend against infections and oxidative stress in skin cells. A recent study found that pumpkin oil can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and blemishes caused by age. Another added benefit of pumpkin oil is that it is rich in vitamin E, which is excellent for skin appearance and texture.
