Review of Cucurbita pepo (Pumpkin) its Phytochemistry and Pharmacology

Abstract, Medicinal Chemistry, 2016

The Curcurbiteae family, also referred as cucurbits form a very large group with approximately 130 genera and 800 species and can be cultivated in warmer region of worldwide and make popular food crop plants some of these species include squashes, pumpkins, melons and gourds. Cucurbita pepo is one of the oldest known cultivated species, with Mexican archaeological evidence from 7000 BC. Thus, it was widely cultivated by indigenous peoples throughout Mexico, Central, and North America before the arrival of Europeans. This plant is native of Northem Mexico and southwestern and eastern USA [1]. These family have medicinal and nutritional benefits. The immature fruits are consumed as a vegetable. The mature fruit is sweet and used to make confectionery, beverages are roasted, or cooked and can be incorporated into baked goods. The seeds, rich in oil, also are used in Mexico, with honey to prepare desserts known as palanquetas. Flower buds and flowers are also edible in Mexico to prepare quesadillas. Some fruit varieties are used with decorative purposes in Halloween party.