Evidence supporting the use of: Cucurbita
For the body system: Urinary System
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3
Cucurbita species, particularly Cucurbita pepo (pumpkin), have a long history of traditional use to support the urinary system, especially for conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men. Historical records from Europe and Asia document the use of pumpkin seeds for urinary complaints, likely due to their oil content and phytosterols. Several traditional systems, including folk medicine and some herbal pharmacopeias, reference the use of Cucurbita seeds or extracts for improving urination and alleviating symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.
Modern scientific research provides some support for these uses, though the evidence is moderate. A number of clinical studies and reviews have investigated pumpkin seed extracts for their potential to relieve BPH symptoms, with some reporting improvements in urine flow, frequency, and quality of life. The proposed mechanisms include anti-inflammatory effects, inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase (an enzyme involved in prostate enlargement), and the presence of phytosterols. However, while these results are promising, the overall quality of evidence is variable, with small sample sizes and methodological limitations in many studies.
In summary, the use of Cucurbita for urinary system support is primarily justified by traditional practices, with some emerging but not yet conclusive scientific validation, resulting in a moderate (3/5) evidence rating.
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