Pumpkin seed, also known as pepita, is derived from the seeds of plants in the Cucurbita genus, particularly Cucurbita pepo L., which belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, commonly known as the gourd family.
Today, pumpkin seeds are processed through various techniques to obtain concentrated nutritional and bioactive compounds in the form of pumpkin seed extract (Pumpkin Seed Extract). Currently, pumpkin seed extract is classified under both functional foods and nutraceuticals, as it is rich in essential nutrients and specific bioactive compounds that have been scientifically studied and shown to support health and help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
| Common Name | Pumpkin Seed Extract |
| Appearance | A greenish-brown powder. |
| Source | Pumpkin Seed |
| Key Benefits | Acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent; helps reduce acne, oily skin, and hair loss; supports hair and skin health; promotes prostate health; and supports cardiovascular health. |
| Recommended Product | Nectapharma Pearletane |
TLDR
Pumpkin seed extract (Pumpkin Seed Extract) is classified as both a functional food and a nutraceutical.
It is rich in essential nutrients and bioactive compounds that have been scientifically studied and shown to support overall health and help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Pumpkin seed extract offers multiple health benefits, including support for acne management, hair health, skin health, prostate health, and cardiovascular health.
Key Active Components in Pumpkin Seed Extract (Pumpkin Seed Extract)
Pumpkin seed extract (Pumpkin Seed Extract) is rich in essential macronutrients [2], [3], including:
-
Protein: approximately 25–37%
-
Healthy fats: approximately 35–50%
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Carbohydrates and dietary fiber: containing about 3–6% fiber
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Minerals: such as potassium (K), sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), phosphorus (P), copper (Cu), and magnesium (Mg)
It also contains high levels of vitamin E (tocopherols), which function as potent antioxidants, as well as B-complex vitamins, which play important roles in metabolic processes.
Beyond these basic nutrients, pumpkin seed extract (Pumpkin Seed Extract) also contains several groups of bioactive compounds that play significant roles in health, as summarized in the table below.[3], [4]
|
Key Groups of Bioactive Compounds |
Representative Constituents |
Mechanisms of Action |
|
Phytosterols |
Δ7- Sterols, Δ7,25- Stigmastadielnol Δ7,22,25- Stigmastadielnol, Δ7- Avenasterol |
Inhibit the enzyme 5α-reductase, thereby reducing the conversion of testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone) |
|
Polyphenols |
Phenolic acids เช่น Caffeic Acid, Protocatechuic Acid, Vanillin, Trans-p-Coumaric, Ferulic Acid, Syringic Acid) |
Reduce oxidative stress and inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the NF-κB signaling pathway. |
|
Carotenoids |
β-Carotene, Total Carotenoids |
Mechanism of action: Reduce oxidative stress and stimulate T-cell activity. |
|
Terpenoids |
Triterpene Squalene |
Triterpene squalene |
Key Benefits of Pumpkin Seed Extract You Should Know
Pumpkin Seed Extract for Skin Health (Acne and Oily Skin)
Acne and oily skin are common conditions associated with hormonal imbalance, particularly the conversion of the male sex hormone testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Pumpkin seed extract contains phytosterols that help reduce DHT levels, leading to decreased sebum production and a lower likelihood of acne formation.
In addition, phytosterols possess anti-inflammatory properties, which represent another important mechanism for alleviating acne-related inflammation.[5]
Pumpkin Seed Extract for Hair Health (Hormone-Related Hair Loss)
The primary mechanism underlying hair loss is elevated levels of DHT, which stimulate gradual miniaturization of hair follicle cells. As a result, newly grown hair becomes progressively thinner and finer, eventually shortening the hair growth cycle and leading to hair loss.
Research has shown that continuous supplementation with pumpkin seed extract can significantly help slow hormone-related hair loss and promote hair regrowth.[6]
Pumpkin Seed Extract for Prostate Health (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in middle-aged and older men. Its development is largely associated with hormonal changes, particularly elevated levels of DHT. The symptoms of BPH are collectively referred to as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), which include urinary frequency, incomplete bladder emptying, hesitancy, and nocturia.[7]
Research has shown that supplementation with pumpkin seed extract for a period of 12 months can significantly reduce LUTS and improve urinary symptoms associated with BPH[8], [9]
Pumpkin Seed Extract and Its Effects on Cholesterol Reduction and Cardiovascular Support
Pumpkin seed extract (Pumpkin Seed Extract) contains phytosterols and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which help reduce intestinal cholesterol absorption and increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.
A study in postmenopausal women found that supplementation with pumpkin seed extract for 12 weeks significantly increased HDL levels and reduced blood pressure.[10]
