Health benefits of pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds locally referred to as Agushie (or Egusi) are nutrient-dense, fat-and-protein-rich seeds from melons (such as Cucumeropsis manniis) commonly used across West Africa to thicken and add flavour to soups and stews.
Often blended into a paste and fried in oil, it is a staple in Ghanaian cuisine, used to make agushie stew (akatoa froyie) and widely eaten in Ghana with boiled yams, boiled plantains or plain boiled rice.
Here are some benefits of adding pumpkin seeds to your meal:
Supports prostate and bladder health
Pumpkin seed extract has been studied for its potential benefits in improving symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (enlarged prostate), which affects many older men.
Some studies suggest it may help improve urinary flow and bladder function.
Regulate blood sugar
Pumpkin seeds contain fibre, protein and magnesium, nutrients that may help improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
Magnesium plays a role in insulin regulation and glucose metabolism.
Skin and hair
The vitamin E, zinc and antioxidants in pumpkin seeds help protect cells from damage and support healthy skin and hair.
Antioxidants also help reduce inflammation in the body.
Sleep quality
Pumpkinseeds contain tryptophan, an amino acid the body uses to produce serotonin and melatonin—hormones involved in regulating sleep.
Eating foods rich in tryptophan in the evening may help improve sleep quality.
Heart health
Pumpkin seeds contain magnesium, unsaturated fats and antioxidants, which help support cardiovascular health.
