Witnessed by: TCM
Pumpkin seed (Cucurbita moschata), of the Cucurbitaceae family. Sprawling annual vine; native range: of American origin, long cultivated across China. Globally recognized as nan gua zi (南瓜子) in Chinese, and squash seed in English. The part used is seed. Flat oval seed with a pale husk and a green oily kernel, sweet and nutty.
In this cross-tradition database, we analyze how this substance operates across world medicine systems — tracking its traditional tastes, temperatures, tissue affinities, post-digestive effects, and planetary correspondences across Ayurveda, Unani, and Western herbalism.
PUMPKIN SEED
IDENTITY
Name
- Common
- pumpkin seed
- Scientific name
- Cucurbita moschata Duchesne
- Family
- Cucurbitaceae
Form
- Part used
- seed
PROPERTIES
Nature
Taste
how the plant declares itself on the tongue
- TCM
- sweet
Temperature
- TCM
- neutral
Affinity
where in the body it travels
Organs / channels
- TCM
- Stomach · Large Intestine
PRACTICE
Virtue
Actions
- TCM
- kills and expels parasites, especially tapeworm and roundworm
Cautions
- Contraindications
- very safe; large doses may bring mild abdominal discomfort
- Toxicity
- none of note; food-grade
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