Evidence supporting the use of: Cucurbita moschata
For the body system: Prostate

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Synopsis

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

Cucurbita moschata, commonly known as butternut squash or a type of pumpkin, is traditionally used in some cultures for urinary and prostate health, though the majority of prostate-related traditional uses and scientific studies center around Cucurbita pepo (pumpkin seed). The traditional use of Cucurbita species seed extracts, including C. moschata, for urinary difficulties and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can be traced to folk medicine practices in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The rationale is tied to the seed's content of phytosterols, zinc, and other bioactive compounds thought to support the urinary tract and prostate function, especially in older men. However, the bulk of clinical and preclinical research focuses on pumpkin seed extracts from C. pepo, with mixed but generally supportive findings for mild to moderate symptoms of BPH and urinary discomfort.

There is limited direct scientific evidence specifically addressing Cucurbita moschata seeds or extracts for prostate health. Most references to their use are based on historical and ethnobotanical reports rather than robust clinical trials. As a result, while traditional usage exists and is somewhat analogous to the better-studied C. pepo, direct scientific validation for C. moschata in prostate health is lacking. Thus, the evidence rating is moderate for traditional use (2/5), but weak for scientific substantiation.

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