What is Cucurbita pepo used for?

What is Cucurbita pepo used for?

Ethnopharmacological studies show that Cucurbita pepo is used in many countries for treating numerous diseases, e.g., as an anti- inflammatory, antiviral, analgesic urinary disorders, anti-ulcer, antidiabetic and antioxidant [1,2].

What is Cucurbita pepo seed?

Abstract. A pumpkin seed, also known as a “pepita”, means “little seed of squash”. Cucurbita pepo is the pumpkin species of the genus: Cucurbita, family: Cucurbits, sub-family: Cucurbitaceae, genera: Cucurbita L. Cucurbita pepo L. is the species among Cucurbitaceae family having the greatest monetary value of the genus …

How is the Cucurbita pepo better known?

pepo, called Summer Squash. Summer Squash are squashes that are harvested when immature, while the rind is still tender and edible. Most Summer Squashes are varieties of Cucurbita pepo, though not all Cucurbita pepo plants are considered Summer Squashes.

What is the medicinal value of pumpkin seeds?

Pumpkin seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals like manganese and vitamin K, both of which are important in helping wounds heal. They also contain zinc, a mineral that helps the immune system fight bacteria and viruses. Pumpkin seeds are also an excellent source of: Phosphorus.

Where did Cucurbita pepo originate?

northeastern Mexico
Cucurbita pepo L. is native to the America (originating from northeastern Mexico and Texas), where it has been cultivated for several thousand years. Pumpkins were dispersed to other countries by transoceanic voyagers at the turn of the 16th century.

Is Cucurbita pepo edible?

Cucurbita pepo, commonly referred to as acorn squash, is a sprawling vine with yellow fruit-bearing flowers. The fruits have a mild flavor and can be fried, baked, added to pasta, used in soups, and more.

What is a pepo type pumpkin?

pepo species are usually recognized as the true pumpkin. Pumpkin varieties within this group have orange-yellow flowers, and fruits with bright orange skin and hard, woody, distinctly furrowed stems.

How do you grow Cucurbita pepo?

Growing Instructions:Sow two seeds to a 10cm pot in a greenhouse or on a sunny windowsill. Pot on seedlings as they grow, keeping them well-watered and warm, then harden off and plant out in rich soil in a sunny, sheltered spot after all threat of frost has passed.

Who eats gourds?

The most commonly eaten gourds are Asian. Again, they are picked young and under ripe to ensure less harsh flavor. Among these are sponge (or Luffa) and bottle (or Calabash). There is also an Italian gourd called cucuzza.

What is the difference between a pumpkin and a gourd?

When comparing the two, gourds are mostly ornamental in type. On the contrary, pumpkins are edible and are eaten when ripe. Another difference that can be seen between the two is that gourds can be only dried when mature and pumpkins can be roasted, baked, steamed, or boiled when mature.

How long does a marrow take to grow?

Pests

Flowering season(s) Summer, Autumn
Soil moisture Moist but well-drained
Ultimate height Up to 30cm (12in)
Ultimate spread Up to 3m (10ft)
Time to ultimate height 4 months