Evidence supporting the use of: Cucurbita
For the body system: Bladder
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Cucurbita, referring to pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo), has been used to support bladder health, particularly in the context of urinary function and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). There is moderate scientific evidence to support this use. Several clinical studies and reviews have investigated the effects of pumpkin seed extract and oil on lower urinary tract symptoms, especially in aging men. For example, randomized, double-blind clinical trials have shown that pumpkin seed extracts can reduce symptoms such as urinary frequency, urgency, and nocturia associated with overactive bladder and BPH. Proposed mechanisms involve the inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase, anti-inflammatory actions, and the presence of phytosterols that may modulate bladder and prostate function. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) recognizes the traditional use of pumpkin seeds for the relief of lower urinary tract symptoms related to an overactive bladder or enlarged prostate. However, while results are generally positive, studies often have small sample sizes or use different formulations, and the effect size is typically modest. Nonetheless, the accumulated evidence is sufficient for some regulatory bodies to acknowledge the use of Cucurbita seed preparations for bladder support. More robust, large-scale clinical trials would help further define efficacy and optimal use.
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AbutaAchyranthes
Aerva lanata
Agrimonia pilosa
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Aletris
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arbutin
asparagus
aucubin
bael
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balsam
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bearberry
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beta-sitosterol
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black poplar
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bottle gourd
Brazilian peppertree
buchu
carrapicho
cedar
chanca piedra
chickweed
cleavers
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coix
common thatching grass
corktree
cornflower
cornsilk
costus
couch grass
cranberry
cranesbill
Crinum latifolium
cubeb
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damiana
dandelion
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DL-Methionine
dodder
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Echinodorus
elephant\'s head
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fireweed
fleabane
fringed pink
fringetree
fu ling
fungus
giant blazingstar
Glechoma hederacea
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gokhru
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golden shower tree
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goldenseal
goldthread
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guelder rose
heather
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isothiocyanates
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knotgrass
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labrador tea
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lophatherum leaf
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nut grass
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punarnava
pygeum
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saw palmetto
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shepherd's purse
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squawvine
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