15 Best Benefits Of Pumpkin Juice For Skin, Hair And Health

There are more uses of the squash than as a Halloween decor—it helps to lose weight, for starters.

Reviewed by Nilofar Pendhari, Certified Clinical Nutritionist
Written by Tanya Choudhary, B.Desgn, ISSA Certified Specialist In Fitness & Nutrition
Edited by Ravi Teja Tadimalla, BSc, Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition and Health
Fact-checked by Moksha Gandhi, BPharm, Certified Health & Wellness Coach  • 

A juice that has gained popularity due to the Harry Potter series is pumpkin juice. Pumpkin juice has nutritious benefits and is gaining the attention of many health enthusiasts and researchers. This juice is extracted from raw pumpkins and is mostly used as an active ingredient in many pharmaceutical preparations and for preparing sweets. It is a perfectly healthy substitute for many carbonated drinks that pose many health risks. This juice is rich in copper, phosphorous, iron, and vitamin D. This nutritional content is responsible for the benefits it offers. Pumpkin juice is considered an effective way to reap all the benefits it offers. Learn more about this juice, the benefits it offers, and how to make it by reading the article below. Keep reading to know more!

protip_icon Know Your Ingredient: Pumpkin Juice

What Is It?
A nutritious, bright orange-colored liquid extracted from the fleshy part of pumpkins.

What Are Its Benefits?
It may aid digestion, boost immunity, promote kidney and liver wellness, cool down the body, and improve skin and hair health.

Who Can Consume It?
It is healthy and considered safe for most, except for individuals with a rare pumpkin allergy.

How Often?
You can drink a glass of this juice every day.

Caution
Although pumpkin juice has no specific side effects, people who are on medications should consult their doctor before consuming it.

How To Make Pumpkin Juice?

Woman preparing pumpkin juice
Image: Shutterstock

Pumpkin juice is an extremely versatile juice that is used in several recipes apart from being consumed in its raw form. The method of making pumpkin juice is quite simple. Before proceeding to make pumpkin juice, ensure that the pumpkin is sweet which is suitable for eating or making pies. These pumpkins are relatively smaller in size. The pumpkin should also have consistent colour.

  • Wash the outside of the pumpkin properly and peel the hard outer skin of the pumpkin.
  • Deseed the pumpkin and cut it into small chunks.
  • Place the pumpkin in the juicer and extract the juice.
  • Sweeten the juice by adding desired quantity of sugar. Alternatively, you can use honey or apple juice in case of obesity.
  • You can enhance the flavor of the juice by adding spices like ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon or ginger or even lemon juice. But these should be added in moderation so that they do not interfere with the natural taste of the drink.
  • Pumpkin juice can be served over ice to enhance its cooling and refreshing effect.
protip_icon Did You Know?
Pumpkin juice is a popular addition to spirit-based cocktails as it lends warmth, sweetness, richness, and earthy flavors to the beverage.

Pumpkin Juice for Health

A bottle of pumpkin juice on table
Image: Shutterstock

The benefits of pumpkin juice are numerous. Just like the vegetable itself, pumpkin juice contains vitamins B1, B2, B6, C, E and beta carotene; minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, iron, sucrose and organic matter (1), (2). It also contains carbohydrates and certain vital salts and proteins. Half a cup of pumpkin juice is recommended every day, thanks to its various medicinal and therapeutic properties. Some of its health benefits are given below.

1. Benefits Liver & Kidney:

Pumpkin juice is very beneficial for the liver and kidney. Research shows that pumpkins can inhibit kidney stone formation (1). Those suffering from kidney stones and gallbladder problems can improve their condition by drinking half a glass of pumpkin juice three times a day for ten days.

2. Prevents Arteriosclerosis:

This orange colored juice is a great cleanser that helps to get rid of the old build-up of arterial deposits, thus reducing the risk of heart diseases and stroke. The high content of antioxidants helps in preventing arteriosclerosisi  XThe buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances on the artery walls that causes obstruction of healthy blood flow. (hardening of arteries) (3). Hence, drinking pumpkin juice can help in bettering heart health.

3. Aids Digestion And Cures Constipation:

Pumpkin juice is beneficial for the digestive system and is helpful in curing both constipation and loose motions due to its high fiber content and laxativei  XSubstances that add bulk to the stool and loosen them, increasing their motility and frequency to relieve constipation. action.

4. Aids Proper Functioning of Kidney And Urinary System:

This juice is effective in curing ulcers and acidity (4). It enables proper functioning of the kidney and urinary system.

5. Good Sedative Benefits:

Due to its sedativei  XSubstances that are CNS depressants, which are used to relax or calm the body by slowing down brain activity. properties, pumpkin juice is effective in curing insomnia. Insomnia patients are advised to drink a glass of pumpkin juice with honey. Also, it might help in better eyesight.

protip_icon Trivia
You need only 5 readily available ingredients to make the Harry Potter pumpkin juice: pumpkin puree, apple cider vinegar, pumpkin pie spice mix, sugar, and vanilla essence.

6. Lowers High Blood Pressure Risks & Reduces Cholesterol:

It minimizes the risk of high blood pressure. It also helps in reducing cholesterol (5).

J. Choudhry, a blogger, shares his experience of drinking pumpkin juice to manage his cholesterol levels: “I used the prescription/recipe of pumpkin [juice], and the result was very favorable as the cholesterol fell to 228 points from 262 in April and 271 in Feb, 2017 (i).”

7. Excellent Cooling Agent:

A mixture of pumpkin juice and honey is an excellent cooling agent and thus can be effective in lowering the body temperature.

8. Relieves Morning Sickness:

Pumpkin juice is effective in providing relief from morning sickness in pregnant women.

9. May Treat Viral Hepatitis A And Reactivate Liver Function:

Those dealing with viral hepatitisi  XThe inflammation of tissues of the liver due to a contagious viral infection or substances like alcohol, toxins, and medications. A may benefit from drinking pumpkin juice as part of their regular diet since it contains vitamin A. The vitamin A may help in the treatment of the condition. The biologically active substances present in pumpkin may help in reactivating liver functions.However, research is inconclusive in this regard. Consult your doctor for more information.

10. Boosts Immunity:

Vitamin C and other minerals present in the juice act as immunity boosters and thus protect the body from various diseases, and with time it can better your immune system. It is believed that including pumpkin juice in your diet can help in weight loss, as it is one of the most low calorie juices.

Pumpkin Juice For Skin

Woman appying a DIY pumpkin face mask
Image: Shutterstock

Apart from its range of health benefits, pumpkin juice is also beneficial to your skin in the following ways.

11. Maintains Healthy & Beautiful Skin:

As pointed out earlier, fresh pumpkin juice is a great source of vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene which help in maintaining beautiful skin health.

12. Effective in Healing Burns, Bites & Inflammation:

Being a cooling agent, it may be effective in the treatment of burns, abscess and inflammation and also provides relief in case of insect bites (6). The high quantity of antioxidants in the form of vitamins A, C and E and zinc makes it an excellent healing agent. Regular consumption of pumpkin juice is the best way to obtain the healing properties.

13. Used in Anti-Wrinkle And Hydrating Creams:

Pumpkin extract used in skin care creams and products
Image: Shutterstock

Its high nutritional value makes it an active ingredient in many anti-wrinkle and hydrating creams. Pumpkins contain vitamin E which has anti-aging properties (7). It is widely used in facials in combination with other ingredients like honey, yogurt, lemon juice and vitamin E oil for different skin types.

Pumpkin Juice For Hair

14. Promotes Hair Regrowth:

The benefits of pumpkin juice for hair cannot be ignored. As said earlier, this juice is a great source of vitamin A which is extremely beneficial for your scalp. Research shows that it can stimulate hair growth (7). Moreover, it has a high content of potassium, a nutrient that helps in promoting the regrowth of hair. This makes it effective for treating hair loss.

15. Moisturizes Dry & Damaged Hair:

DIY pumpkin hair mask for hair
Image: Shutterstock

Pumpkins have emollient benefits (7). Pumpkin juice can be effective in moisturizing dry and damaged hair. The mixture given below can be tried to make pumpkin conditioner:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups chopped and cooked pumpkins
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Method:

Puree the pumpkin and yogurt in a blender and add coconut oil and honey. Apply this mixture on the hair and cover it with a plastic cap. Leave it for 15 minutes and then wash out thoroughly using shampoo and conditioner as usual.

Thus, pumpkin juice comes with a range of benefits for health, skin and hair in addition to its refreshing and delicious taste. However, before consuming or using this juice, ensure that you are not allergic to it.

While pumpkin juice provides various health benefits, it may not be for everyone. Learn about the possible adverse effects of pumpkin juice below.

Side Effects Of Pumpkin Juice

Consuming pumpkin and its seeds or juice is generally considered safe. However, some people may experience stomach issues, diarrhea, and nausea. Topical application of the juice may cause itching, rash, or allergic reactions in some people. While there is limited scientific evidence, pumpkin seeds also possess mild diuretic properties that may lead to increased urination and even interact with diuretic medications. They may also cause constipation and possibly affect the body’s mineral balance. Hence, practice caution while using pumpkin juice for your health. Consult your doctor for more information.

Infographic: 8 Ways Pumpkin Juice Can Benefit You

Thanks to Harry Potter, pumpkin juice recipes are more popular than ever. Pumpkin juice is high in essential nutrients, making it a perfect substitute for carbonated drinks. We have rounded up the top 8 ways in which including pumpkin juice in your diet can help. Check out the infographic below to know more!

8 ways pumpkin juice can benefit you (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The benefits of pumpkin juice can be attributed to its phosphorous, copper, iron, and vitamin D. This juice can benefit the liver and kidneys. It boosts immunity, relieves morning sickness, and acts as a sedative. In addition, pumpkin juice is an effective cooling agent, helps treat viral infections, maintains healthy skin, heals bites and burns, combats inflammation, and has anti-wrinkle properties. It also promotes hair regrowth and has a moisturizing effect on dry and damaged hair. Try including this juice in your diet to reap all its benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drink pumpkin juice on an empty stomach?

Yes, consuming pumpkin juice on an empty stomach is generally considered safe. It helps in the maximum absorption of nutrients and cleanses the system well.

Are pumpkin seeds good for the sperm?

Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc and help improve sperm quality.

Can we drink pumpkin juice at night?

Yes, pumpkin juice is safe to be consumed at night. Having it with honey exhibits a sedative effect and promotes sleep quality.

Can you drink an excess of pumpkin juice?

No, consuming more than 2 glasses of pumpkin juice in a day is not recommended, as it may trigger gastrointestinal discomfort and bloating.

Key Takeaways

  • The copper, phosphorus, iron, and vitamin D composition of pumpkin makes it highly beneficial for health.
  • Drinking half a glass of pumpkin juice thrice daily is believed to alleviate kidney stones and gallbladder issues.
  • Healthy, wrinkle-free skin requires vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene, which pumpkins contain in abundance.
  • It is rich in antioxidants and thus works as a natural cleanser. It prevents the deposition of fats in arteries, aids digestion, and helps lower blood pressure.
  • Pumpkin conditioner moisturizes and rejuvenates damaged hair. High potassium levels help in hair growth.
pumpkin juice benefits_illustration

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Learn about the amazing health benefits of pumpkin juice! From boosting immunity to aiding digestion, check out this video to know more about why this drink is a must-have for a healthy lifestyle.

Personal Experience: Source

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Medicinal And Biological Potential of Pumpkin: an Updated Review
    https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/614835C9F2CABAAAFD5E7925A72E7F9F/S0954422410000107a.pdf/medicinal_and_biological_potential_of_pumpkin_an_updated_review.pdf
  2. Nutritional and sensory evaluation of pumpkin-based (Cucurbita maxima) functional juice
    https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/NFS-07-2016-0109/full/html
  3. Antioxidants and Atherosclerosis: Mechanistic Aspects
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6722928/
  4. Gastroprotective Effect of Benincasa Hispida Fruit Extract
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3025145/
  5. Nutritional and Therapeutic Importance of the Pumpkin Seeds
    https://biomedres.us/pdfs/BJSTR.MS.ID.003586.pdf
  6. The Evaluation of the Healing Properties of Pumpkin and Linseed Oils on Deep Second-Degree Burns in Rats
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26186459/
  7. A Review: The Emerging Nutraceutical Potential of Pumpkin Seeds
    https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/268083432.pdf
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