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Click to order delicious, healthy Pumpkin Seed Oil

The Magick of the
Everyday Pumpkin
A common orange squash magically turns into a beautiful coach for the lovely Cinderella.  A child hollows out the well known pumpkin, carves out a face and adds a candle for an eerie porch light on Halloween.  And if you are from Morton, Illinois you know that industry from the Libby plant makes your city the pumpkin capitol of the world.  Whether real or fairytale pumpkins and pumpkin stories seem to have their own magic.  But these fall wonders are also an amazing, healthy food.  Pumpkins contain high levels of antioxidants and carotenes, notably vitamin C and E and therefore may lower cancer risk, heart disease, cataracts and strokes.  All this with no cholesterol and not enough fat to even think about.

One cup pumpkin puree contains:

• calories - 80
• carbohydrates - 19 grams
• cholesterol - 0
• fat - less than 1 gram
• potassiom - 588 mg
• protein - 2.4 grams
• vitamin A - 310% RDA
• vitamin C - 20% RDA

Another thing that makes these orange globes of the garden special is the fact that they keep longer than most vegetables.  A ripe, clean, dry pumpkin should store in a cool, dry place such as a garage for a couple months. Keep them off the floor and let air circulate around them for best results.

All these are just the benefits of the pumpkin flesh.  We haven't even mentioned the Pumpkin Seeds!
Subtly sweet and nutty, the roasted seeds from inside your Halloween pumpkin are one of the most nutritious and flavorful seeds around.   Pumpkin seeds are available year around, however, they are the freshest in the fall when pumpkins are in season.
Pumpkin seeds support the function of the immune system, assists prostate health and helps lower cholesterol levels.   They are also a useful source of omega 3 fatty acids and zinc.  Their only downfall is if you are counting calories.

About 1/4 c. pumpkin seeds contain:

• potassium - 820 mg
• protein - 8.47 grams
• zinc - 6,400 mg
• iron - 5.16 mg
• manganese - 52% RDA
• magnesium - 46% RDA
• phosphorous - 40.5% RDA
• zinc - 17% RDA
• calories - 186

Tips for Preparing Pumpkin Seeds:
While most stores sell pumpkin seeds, it is fun and easy to make your own.   To do so, first remove the seeds from the pumpkin’s inner cavity and remove excess pulp that may have stuck to them.   Spread them out in their shells evenly on a paper bag and let them dry out overnight.
Place the seeds on a cookie sheet and lightly sprinkle them with oil and the seasonings of your choice. Bake them at 300ºF for approximately 30 minutes or until golden brown, shaking the pan several times when baking so as to prevent them from burning.

And last but not least one of the finest health benefits of this mighty vegetable is the Pumpkin Seed Oil!
Pumpkin seed oil is one of the most nutritional oils available, and is an excellent source of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and sterols.   It contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which are known to promote energy levels, brain function, and overall health and vitality.   It also contains high levels of Vitamin E, as well as Vitamins A and C, Zinc, and other trace minerals and vitamins.   Historically, pumpkin seeds (either the whole seeds or the pressed oil) have been used all around the world for healing purposes.   They were applied or consumed for varied purposes, including: to heal wounds and burns, as a diuretic, to dispel intestinal worms and parasites, hormone production, overactive bladder, and for prostrate problems.   Today, this oil has been used successfully in preventing and alleviating prostrate and bladder problems.   The phytosterols present in the pumpkin seed oil, are also presently being studied for their role in lowering cholesterol levels.   As more studies are made, we will continue to learn more about this important natural product.

Pumpkin seed oil has a pleasant and mildly rich flavor, and is sure to complement both your health and your culinary creations.   It is best to use the oil in its raw form, so that the important health benefits are not damaged by heat.   A great way to use this oil is in a salad dressing, smoothie, or drizzled over a freshly cooked meal just before serving.