Nutraceutical Potential of pumpkin (Cucurbita sp.) powder, seed, extracts, and oil on diabetes; Mini Review

Abstract

Diabetes has become a global pandemic which imparts a financial burden on the patients as well as on healthcare system. Researches all over the world have shown that more than 200 plants, possess antidiabetic properties. Members of cucurbit family are the most important one. Experimental studies in animal and human models have depicted the hypoglycemic effect of cucurbit family. These studies also stated that cucurbit promote regeneration of beta-cells of pancreas. The selected pumpkin (Cucurbitaceous) seeds were also shown to contain globulins with significant anti hyperglycaemic activity. Administering pumpkin seed powder and seed oil can reduce the side effects of diabetes; improve insulin levels and diabetic’s health status. Pumpkin seeds are generally regarded as waste, recently gained significant attention due to their nutritional value and health benefits. Due to the emerging different active components with nutraceutical properties of pumpkin (Cucurbita sp.) powder, seed, extracts, and oil. The aim of this analysis is to recognize the nutraceutical potential of pumpkin (Cucurbita sp.) seed powder, extracts, and oil on diabetic patients. The component of pumpkin seed is easily available, palatable and cost-effective therapy.