Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds as a functional food: why proper evidence for the seeds as food was not found, and what the pumpkin seed oil trial does and does not show.
Content last updated . This page has not been medically reviewed.
Safety first. Supplements can cause side effects and interact with medicines. Read mushroom safety and interactions before you use any mushroom product.
Overview
Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) are eaten roasted or raw and are a common topic in search.What the research shows
Proper evidence was not found for pumpkin seeds eaten as food for any health outcome in the sources we read. PubMed has few randomized trials that mention pumpkin seeds (see Research). The one human trial we identified used pumpkin seed oil as a treatment for female pattern hair loss compared with topical minoxidil. [1] That is a different product, taken or applied for a different reason, and does not tell us about eating the seeds.Safety and individual considerations
- Seeds can trigger allergy in some people.
- Salted seeds add sodium; check the label. [2]
Related
Nuts and seeds · FlaxseedFrequently asked questions
Do pumpkin seeds help prostate or hair?
Proper evidence for the seeds as food was not found. The oil trial studied hair loss and used oil. [1]
References
- Ibrahim IM et al. Pumpkin seed oil vs. minoxidil 5% topical foam for the treatment of female pattern hair loss: A randomized comparative trial. J Cosmet Dermatol 2021. PMID 33544448.
- U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025. Check the site for the current edition.
Education, not medical advice. This page is for general information. It does not diagnose or treat any condition and is not a substitute for care from a qualified health professional. Natural does not automatically mean safe. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before changing your care, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition.