Pumpkin Fruit:
*Nutritional Functions:*
1. Rich in vitamins (A, C, E, K) and minerals (potassium, magnesium).
2. High in dietary fiber and antioxidants.
3. Good source of beta-carotene and other carotenoids.
4. Supports healthy digestion and bowel function.
5. May help regulate blood sugar levels.
*Health Benefits:*
1. Supports eye health and vision.
2. Boosts immune system.
3. May reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
4. Supports weight management.
5. May help reduce cancer risk.
6. Supports bone health.
7. May improve cognitive function.
8. Supports prostate health.
*Culinary Functions:*
1. Baked goods (pies, bread, muffins).
2. Soups and stews.
3. Roasted as a side dish.
4. Used in savory dishes (curries, stews).
5. Made into juice and smoothies.
6. Used in beauty products (face masks, skincare).
*Traditional Medicine:*
1. Used to treat digestive issues.
2. May help reduce fever.
3. Used to treat skin conditions (acne, eczema).
4. May help reduce anxiety and stress.
5. Used to support immune system.
*Cosmetic Functions:*
1. Face masks and skincare products.
2. Hair care products (shampoos, conditioners).
3. Used in aromatherapy.
*Economic Functions:*
1. Major crop for food and ornamental purposes.
2. Supports local economies.
3. Used in crafts and decorations.
*Environmental Functions:*
1. Soil conservation.
2. Provides shade and habitat for wildlife.
3. Supports pollinators.
*Varieties:*
1. Jack-o'-lantern
2. Sugar pie
3. Cinderella
4. Atlantic giant
5. Baby boo
*Fun Facts:*
1. Pumpkins are 90% water.
2. Largest pumpkin on record weighed 2,624 lbs.
3. Pumpkins are a type of berry.
4. Native Americans used pumpkins as a staple food.
5. Pumpkins are grown on every continent except Antarctica.
Pumpkin Seeds:
_Nutritional Functions:_
1. Rich in protein (33%).
2. High in healthy fats (omega-3, omega-6).
3. Good source of minerals (magnesium, zinc, iron).
4. Contain antioxidants (vitamin E, beta-carotene).
5. Support prostate health.
_Health Benefits:_
1. Prostate health: Reduce symptoms of BPH.
2. Sleep support: Regulate sleep patterns.
3. Digestive health: Support gut bacteria.
4. Immune system: Boost immunity.
5. Anti-inflammatory: Reduce inflammation.
6. Cardiovascular health: Lower cholesterol.
7. Cancer prevention: Antioxidant properties.
8. Anxiety and stress relief.
_Culinary Functions:_
1. Snacking (roasted, seasoned).
2. Baking (bread, muffins, cookies).
3. Salads (garnish, added crunch).
4. Trail mix ingredient.
5. Oil production (pumpkin seed oil).
_Traditional Medicine:_
1. Prostate issues (enlarged prostate).
2. Urinary problems (incontinence).
3. Parasite removal (tapeworms).
4. Anxiety and insomnia.
5. Skin conditions (acne, eczema).
_Cosmetic Functions:_
1. Skincare products (anti-aging).
2. Hair care products (hair growth).
3. Nail care (strengthen nails).
_Economic Functions:_
1. Crop for food and oil production.
2. Supports local economies.
3. Exported globally.
_Environmental Functions:_
1. Soil conservation.
2. Provides shade and habitat for wildlife.
3. Supports pollinators.
_Varieties:_
1. Oilseed pumpkin (Styrian).
2. Carving pumpkin (Connecticut Field).
3. Pie pumpkin (Sugar Pie).
4. Specialty pumpkins (White Pumpkin, Blue Pumpkin).
_Fun Facts:_
1. Pumpkin seeds contain 1.7% tryptophan.
2. Roasted pumpkin seeds are 25% protein.
3. Pumpkin seeds have been cultivated for 5,000 years.
4. China produces 40% of global pumpkin seeds.
5. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of magnesium.
