Product composition
Pumpkin seed oil is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids:
oleic (43.8%) — belongs to the group of omega-9 fatty acids. It is known for lowering cholesterol levels, normalizing hormone synthesis, has anti-inflammatory properties, increases insulin, which controls blood sugar, and therefore is useful for diabetics;
linoleic (33.1%) is an omega-6 fatty acid of vegetable origin. It has cardioprotective and antiarrhythmic properties: it reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases by 10% and the risk of coronary heart disease by 20%;
palmitic (13.4%) — necessary for the formation of the epidermis and lipid barrier;
stearic acid (7.8%) is a saturated fatty acid, which is necessary, in particular, to protect the skin.
In addition to fatty acids, this product contains minerals: potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sulfur, chlorine, iron, magnesium, sodium, copper, zinc, fluorine. The oil also contains many vitamins: E, A and C, phytosterols, carotenes and protochlorophylls, which gives a rich green color.
Men’s health benefits
It has a beneficial effect on reproductive function in men. The fact is that the intensity of the oxidation of fat-like cells in the sex glands is considered one of the causes of male infertility. Oleic acid, which is found in pumpkin seeds, prevents oxidation.
An interesting fact
Pumpkin seed oil produced in the Austrian region of Styria is called “green gold”. There was even a custom here: when engaged, the groom gave the bride a ring, and she gave a bottle of pumpkin seed oil in return. It was believed that it adds masculine strength and helps produce the hormone testosterone.
Women’s health benefits
The oxidative process also affects a woman’s reproductive system — the chances of becoming pregnant decrease. The antioxidants in pumpkin increase fertility and restore the menstrual cycle. Scientists at the University of the West Indies in Kingston found that women who took pumpkin seed oil during menopause more easily tolerated hot flashes and had reduced head and joint pain.
To strengthen the heart and blood vessels
Pumpkin seed oil reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases: it reduces the level of “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides, and therefore minimizes the onset of atherosclerosis. It is also known for lowering blood pressure.
A study among postmenopausal women found that eating pumpkin seed extract improves vascular elasticity and increases the level of “good” cholesterol, which helps fight deposits on the walls of arteries and veins.
Another study confirmed that oil has a therapeutic effect on varicose veins.
Use in cosmetology
The properties of the oil are beneficial for dry and problem skin. It is used for acne, abrasions and wounds, burns. Homemade moisturizing masks based on the product are popular, sometimes oatmeal and honey are added to them. A few drops of lemon give a brightening effect. Creams and ointments with pumpkin seed oil nourish, prevent peeling and increase skin elasticity.
For hair growth
It helps fight androgenetic alopecia in men. A study was conducted that compared the amount of hair before and after using the product. In men who took pumpkin seed oil by mouth for more than 20 weeks, the average amount of hair increased by 40%. When applied topically, it strengthens hair follicles and helps against dandruff.
Source: https://food.ru/
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