Evidence supporting the use of: Pumpkin
For the health condition: Parasites (nematodes, worms)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Pumpkin seeds have a long history of traditional use as a remedy for intestinal parasites, particularly in folk medicine across various cultures, including Traditional Chinese Medicine and Native American herbal practices. The biologically active compound most often cited is cucurbitacin, a group of triterpenoids found in pumpkin seeds, which is believed to possess anthelmintic (worm-expelling) properties. Historically, decoctions and preparations of pumpkin seeds were administered to expel tapeworms and roundworms, especially before the advent of modern antiparasitic medications.

There is limited but emerging scientific interest in this traditional use. Some small-scale laboratory and animal studies have demonstrated that pumpkin seed extracts can paralyze or reduce the viability of certain nematodes and cestodes, possibly making them easier for the body to eliminate. However, robust human clinical trials confirming efficacy are lacking, and the evidence is not strong enough to recommend pumpkin seeds as a primary treatment for parasitic infections in modern medical practice. Most contemporary guidelines consider pumpkin seeds as an adjunct or preventive measure rather than a curative one. Overall, while the tradition is well documented and there is some preliminary scientific support, the evidence base remains modest and further research is warranted.

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