This wonderful source of nutrients is naturally rich in essential fatty acids, magnesium, iron, zinc, protein, and fiber. Raw pumpkin seeds are so healthy in fact, the precious oil inside is pressed and used as a nutritional oil as well.

Pumpkin Seeds have been used in combination with Saw Palmetto to reduce symptoms of BPH (Benign prostatic hyperplasia).  Pumpkin seeds also contain the amino acid L-tryptophan and some believe it may be beneficial for depression. In Germany pumpkin seeds are given to help remove parasites like tapeworms, and as a preventative against kidney stones.

Pumpkin, Cucurbita pepo L. [Fam. Cucurbitaceous], has been cultivated as a food for at least the last 16,000 years, based on archaeological evidence in Mexico and North America . The seeds were used by many different aboriginal groups for expelling intestinal worms, for killing tapeworms and as a diuretic. Scientific studies have confirmed these indications and have documented the efficacy of the seeds for eliminating both tapeworms and roundworms. Pumpkin seeds are still widely used in Eritrea to treat tapeworm. The German Commission E recommends pumpkin seeds for treating urinary and prostate conditions, backed by many studies. The therapeutic use and safety of pumpkin seed was recently tested in a multicentric clinical trial. The study involved 2,245 patients suffering from benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH stage I&II). Patients received 1-2 capsules of a pumpkin seed extract per day for 12 weeks. The International Prostate Symptom Score questionnaire (American Urological Association (I-PSS)) was used to record urinary symptoms and a quality of life questionnaire (LQ Index) was used to record the treatment's influence on quality of life. Results showed that during therapy, the I-PSS decreased by 41.4% and life quality improved by 46. 1%.  More than 96% of the patients reported no undesired side effects. Researchers concluded that the extract facilitated an efficient improvement of BPH symptoms, especially in early stages. In a randomized, double-blind study with 53 patients over three months, the phytosterol preparation, Curbicin, obtained from pumpkin seeds and saw palmetto berries, was compared with a placebo in the treatment of symptoms caused by prostatic hyperplasia. Urinary flow, night time urination, residual urine, frequency of urination and a subjective assessment of the effect of treatment were all significantly improved in the treatment group without any untoward side effects. Some herbalists also recommend pumpkin seeds for treating dizziness and Parkinson's disease.