Overview
Pumpkin seed oil is derived from seeds of Cucurbita spp. and is rich in phytosterols, polyunsaturated fatty acids (particularly linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids), and bioactive compounds such as polyphenols. It has been studied primarily for its beneficial effects on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Clinical evidence suggests pumpkin seed oil may improve urinary function and reduce symptom severity, potentially through anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and hormonal modulation mechanisms [1][3]. Experimental studies also show that pumpkin seed extracts inhibit proliferation and induce autophagy in prostate cancer cells, suggesting potential chemopreventive properties [7]. Additionally, dietary supplementation with pumpkin seeds improves fatty acid profiles, increasing n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which may contribute to cardiovascular and metabolic health [5]. While not yet strongly recommended in major clinical guidelines due to heterogeneity in formulations and limited long-term trials, pumpkin seed oil is well-tolerated and increasingly used as part of phytotherapeutic approaches for mild-to-moderate LUTS [8][6].
Dosage Guide
Therapeutic Doses
For treatment of specific conditions
Special Forms
Alternative forms for specific needs
Standardized formulation used in clinical trials for BPH and LUTS
Dietary use; rich in polyunsaturated fats and antioxidants
Clinical Notes
- Generally well-tolerated; mild gastrointestinal side effects reported in some individuals.
- No established Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL), but high doses may affect hormone-sensitive conditions; theoretical concern due to phytosterol content.
- Potential for drug interactions with anticoagulants due to vitamin E and fatty acid content; monitor when used in combination.
- Limited evidence in pregnant or breastfeeding women; safety not fully established in these groups.
Research
Pumpkin seed extracts show clinical promise for treating lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Plant extracts like pumpkin seed are used for BPH, but long-term, high-quality trial data are limited.
Pumpkin seed cake supplementation alters milk fatty acid profile in goats, indicating bioactive lipid content.
Pumpkin seed oil used topically in sunscreen formulations shows antioxidant and photoprotective potential in animal models.
Dietary pumpkin seed in a seed mixture increases n-3 and n-6 fatty acids and improves fatty acid status in hemodialysis patients.
Some randomized trials suggest clinical effects of pumpkin seed for BPH, but more robust studies are needed.
Pumpkin seed extracts inhibit proliferation and induce autophagy in androgen-insensitive prostate cancer cells in vitro.
Pumpkin seed soft extract studied in 12-month RCTs shows potential for managing mild-to-moderate male LUTS.
