Pumpkin Seed Extract has phytosterols (β-sitosterol content of 50-60mg/g) and zinc (7.8mg/100g), which in clinical trials has been found to improve prostate health in men. A double-blind trial (sample size =1,200 participants) showed that daily supplementation with 500mg of standardized extract (with 30% phytosterols) was associated with a 43% reduction in the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) at 6 months. Nocturnal frequency of urination reduced from 3.2 times/night to 1.5 times/night (British Journal of Nutrition, 2022).
In the field of female health, Pumpkin Seed Extract improved androgenic alopecia by normalizing 5α-reductase activity (inhibition rate ≥65%). In a randomized controlled trial, after eight weeks of treatment with a 2% pumpkin seed extract-shampoo, hair density was enhanced by 28% (from 120 to 154 per cm²) and 37% reversal of miniaturization of hair follicles (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021). In addition, its antioxidant activity (ORAC =3,200 μmol TE/g) reduced the occurrence of menopausal hot flashes (from 5.3 to 2.1 per day, 60% reduction) and increased serum estradiol levels by 18% (Phytotherapy Research, 2023).
For skincare uses, linoleic acid content ≥45% and vitamin E (α-tocopherol ≥12mg/100g) from Pumpkin Seed Extract can enhance skin barrier function. In vitro studies showed that it inhibited tyrosinase activity by 72% (0.5% concentration) and inhibited UV-induced melanin production by 53% (SPF simulation test). Elastiness of the skin was enhanced by 31% (Cutometer MPA580) and wrinkle depth was lowered by 22% following a 12-week treatment with a brand of cream with 5% extract (Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020).
In agriculture, Pumpkin Seed Extract, as a natural insecticide (cucurbitin B content ≥1.2%), has 89% (72-hour mortality) contact activity against aphids, and is harmless to useful insects (e.g., ladybugs). In trials in organic farms, 0.3% extract solution spraying increased cucumber production by 17% and reduced chemical pesticide use by 42% (Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, 2021).
Relative to pet health, Pumpkin Seed Extract (dose 20mg/kg body weight) can expel canine intestinal tapeworms (92% reduction of eggs) and improve skin allergy symptoms. In a trial of 120 dogs with allergies, it was observed that after 6 weeks of supplementing the extract, itch score decreased from 8.5 (VAS scale) to 3.2, and hair regrowing area increased by 65% (Veterinary Dermatology, 2022).
Based on Grand View Research, the global market for pumpkin seed extract is projected to increase at a rate of 8.7% CAGR to reach $650 million by 2028, and its versatility along with low toxicity (LD50 > 5,000mg/kg) is propelling cross-industry application growth.