Pumpkin Benefits

Pumpkins are believed to have their origins in Central America and have been part of the human diet for centuries. In the US, where they were a staple for native Americans long before the pilgrims arrived, various folk health tales sprung up - including a recommendation to eat pumpkin to remove freckles.

In Chinese medicine, pumpkin is also considered useful in relieving vomiting and reducing fever, among other things, while the seeds have been used to kill intestinal worms. Claims have even been made that eating the seeds can help prevent prostate cancer. What is clear is that pumpkins are rich in fibre, low in fat and packed with nutrients, including vitamin A and potassium. On their own (and not roasted in oil or soaked with honey in a pumpkin pie) they're undeniably good for you.