The name “pumpkin” refers to several types of squash, and usually the traditional pumpkin, Cucurbita pepo L. It has orange, slightly ribbed yet smooth skin and a thick shell. The interior is filled with flesh and seeds. Pumpkin seeds are packed with magnesium, which is great for heart, bone, and teeth health. They also contain zinc, good for cell health, skin and eye health, and restful sleep.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, Alabama, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Ontario, Quebec
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antidepressant, antiparasitic, diuretic, and treats benign prostatic hyperplasia, kidney infections, bladder infections, headache, skin conditions, poor immune system function, high cholesterol, rheumatism, arthritis, sore muscles
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
To treat parasites and tapeworm, peel and crush 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds. Boil in 1 liter water for 30 minutes. Strain, and sip throughout the day for 5 days. For skin conditions, headaches, rheumatism, arthritis, and sore muscles, peel the skin from the pumpkin, and place it, cut side down, directly on the affected area. For
all other conditions, eat at least 1/2 cup of pumpkin per day. It is great sautéed or
served mashed like potatoes.
