Anti-aging Pumpkin
Pumpkin belongs to the squash family and like all squash plants all parts are safe to eat including the flash, skin, seeds, vine, leaves, root, flowers, and stem (tough).
Pumpkin contains several antioxidants, phytonutrients, soluble and insoluble fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s low in calories and can be eaten raw or cooked.
Pumpkin is loaded with anti-aging ingredients. It works great as an anti-aging facial mask. Pumpkin contains alpha hydroxy acid, an enzyme that helps breakdown old dead skin cells (exfoliates) and encourage new skin growth.
Applied topically it stimulates collagen production minimizing wrinkles. It improves the skin’s elasticity, helps fade dark spots, brightens the skin, reduces inflammation, enhances moisture while controlling excess oil, and controlling acne.
It contains antioxidants which help repair and minimize damage from UV radiation.
Pumpkin applied topically is good for the hair as well. It helps to moisturize dry hair and dry scalp. It improves circulation in the skin and scalp.
Studies on pumpkin seed oil show that it increases hair growth in androgenetic alopecia. That’s the most common hair loss condition in men. It affects up to one half of all men by age 50.
A versatile anti-aging recipe for both hair and skin combines coconut oil, pumpkin, and yogurt.
Combine 1 cup of mashed or pureed pumpkin (fruit), 1/3 cup of yogurt, and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Mix well.
For face:
Apply to face and neck avoiding eyes.
Leave on for 15 minutes.
Rinse with warm water. Pat dry
Use it once a week for the best results.
For hair:
Apply to hair and scalp.
Leave on for 30 minutes.
Wash and condition as usual.
Use weekly for best results.
