Pumpkin seed treatment: indications, contraindications

Pumpkin seeds, like the pulp of this melon culture (Cucurbita pepo), contain a large number of useful substances, many of which have healing properties. So, the raw seeds of pumpkin, rubbed with honey, have long been used as an effective anthelmintic.

Indications of the pumpkin seeds

We officially classified pumpkin seeds as a group of anthelmintic agents, but today, when the biochemical composition of pumpkin seeds is studied in more detail, indications for the use of this natural product are not limited to helminthiases, but include diseases of the cardiovascular system, intestines, liver, and prostate. Among the substances contained in these seeds, there are those that help with high blood cholesterol, VSD, low testosterone and a decrease in sexual function in men, etc.

However, doctors warn: for all its potential medicinal properties, pumpkin seeds are an auxiliary tool in the prescribed complex therapy.

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Release form

The pumpkin seed (Semen cucurbitae) in the pharmacy can be purchased in pre-packaged form - 130 g in the package, as well as in the form of powder (obtained by grinding the seeds). Prepackaged and raw raw seeds (peeled or peeled) are sold in supermarkets.

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Pharmacodynamics

The description on the chemist's packaging says that pumpkin seeds have an activity against helminths (tapeworms). Pharmacodynamics is provided by a carboxylic amino acid with cucurbitin, which when digested in the gastrointestinal tract by decarboxylation is converted into substances that have a harmful effect on intestinal worms-parasites.

Since pumpkin seeds do have a wider range of therapeutic effects, one should dwell in greater detail on their composition. In pumpkin seeds there is vitamin E antioxidant in the form of alpha, gamma and delta-tocopherols; retinoids and carotenoids; niotsin, choline, pantothenic and folic acid. So pumpkin seeds are recommended to use to reduce the level of oxidative stress that occurs in many pathologies.

Phenolic acids (hydroxybenzoic, hydroxycinnamic, coumarinic, etc.) in the seeds contribute to the fight against inflammation, allergy, a decrease in vascular tone and impaired liver function.

Tetrahydrofurfurane lignans (pinoresinol, larisiresinol) have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, show hormone-stimulating activity. Because of this, pumpkin seeds are useful for benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate).

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic and alpha-linolenic) and omega-6 fatty acids strengthen the phospholipid membranes of cells and maintain a healthy state of the tissues of various organs.

Phytosterols (beta-sitosterol, desmosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol, spinasterol, d-stigmastenol, d7-avenasterol) help in lowering the blood levels of low density cholesterol (LDL).

Pumpkin seeds also contain zinc, magnesium and potassium. Magnesium and potassium are necessary for the functioning of the myocardium and gastrointestinal tract, normal blood pressure and a good state of bone tissue. And zinc not only supports the immune system, but also regulates cell growth and division, insulin secretion, skin condition, sleep, mood, and the level of male sex hormones.

Contained in pumpkin seeds and amino acids, including, tryptophan, leucine and arginine. Sufficient entry into the body of tryptophan helps with sleep disorders, as the synthesis of the epiphyseal hormone melatonin increases. Leucine and arginine contribute to tissue repair after inflammation, stabilize blood cholesterol levels, and increase testosterone levels in men.

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Dosing and administration

For the treatment of helminthiases in adult children, it is recommended that before the application of pumpkin seeds for two days (twice a day - in the morning and at bedtime) do cleansing enemas, and at the end of the second day take a laxative.

Peeled seeds (300 g) should be crushed and mixed with 4-5 tablespoons of water (you can add a teaspoon of honey). The mixture is taken on an empty stomach - one spoon (for 60 minutes, with small intervals).

After three hours a laxative is taken, and then (in 25-30 minutes) - an enema is made.

For children, the dose of seeds decreases depending on the age: 75 g - 3-4 years, 100 g - 5-7 years, 150 g - from 8 to 10 years, 200 g - 11-14 years.

The method of application of pumpkin seeds for the treatment of other diseases involves the introduction of them into the diet in an amount not exceeding 25-30 g per day (with plenty of liquid to prevent digestive problems).

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Use of the pumpkin seeds during pregnancy

For medical purposes, use during pregnancy is not provided.

Contraindications

Pumpkin seeds are not used in cases of high acidity of the stomach, gastritis and gastric ulcer, spastic colitis, low blood pressure.

Side effects of the pumpkin seeds

Among the side effects of pumpkin seeds are disorders of the stomach with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea / constipation and flatulence, as well as headaches and an allergic reaction with cutaneous manifestations in the form of urticaria.

It should be borne in mind that the use of rancid pumpkin seeds leads to poisoning.

[8], [9]

Interactions with other drugs

Pumpkin seeds can be combined with other agents for the expulsion of helminths.

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Storage conditions

Fresh dry pumpkin seeds should be stored in a refrigerator - in a sealed container.

Shelf life

If the storage rules are observed, the shelf life of the pumpkin seeds is up to 6 months.