Pumpkin Seeds as a Natural Remedy for Anemia: Nutritional Insights and Therapeutic Potential

Abstract

Anemia is a widespread global health concern characterized by reduced hemoglobin levels and diminished oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. According to the World Health Organization, anemia affects 40% of children aged 6 to 59 months, 37% of pregnant women, and 30% of women aged 15 to 49 years globally. The condition is primarily linked to iron deficiency, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, although other factors such as vitamin B12 insufficiency, parasitic infections, chronic diseases, and genetic disorders also contribute. The socioeconomic and health impacts of anemia highlight the need for effective prevention and management strategies. Dietary interventions play a critical role in addressing iron deficiency, with functional foods gaining prominence for their sustainable and cost-effective potential. Among these, pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita spp) stand out due to their rich nutrient profile and potential health benefits. This review explores the global and Indian prevalence of anemia, the nutritional complexity of the condition, and the therapeutic potential of pumpkin seeds. It discusses their nutritional composition, mechanisms of action, and current evidence supporting their role in combating anemia while identifying research gaps and future directions for establishing standardized dietary recommendations. Much literature and scientific research underscore the importance of nutrient-dense foods such as pumpkin seeds, which are rich in essential micronutrients such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and bioactive compounds that support hematopoiesis and overall health. Leveraging the therapeutic potential of these natural alternatives, alongside fortified food programs and precise monitoring methods, can significantly contribute to anemia reduction and improve public health outcomes.

Keywords: Anemia; Fortified food; Iron deficiency; Public health; Pumpkin seeds; World Health Organization.

Fig. 1

Model of vitamin C–dependent stimulation of transferrin (Tf)–iron uptake. (A) In ascorbate-depleted cells, iron is released from holo-Tf in acidified endosomes and transported into the cytosol by divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1)/Zip14 (Zrt- and Irt-like Protein 14, a metal-ion transporter involved in non-transferrin-bound iron uptake), entering the labile iron pool (LIP). (B) Intracellular ascorbate enhances Tf-dependent iron uptake, LIP size, and ferritin synthesis and storage via intracellular ferri reduction. Ascorbate may act directly or through endosomal ferrireductases, possibly by entering the endosome to facilitate iron release from Tf.

Fig. 2

Essential micronutrient, bioactive compounds, and medicinal properties of pumpkin seeds. CVD = cardiovascular disease.

Fig. 3

Anti-inflammatory effect of pumpkin seed. IL = interleukin; TNF-α = tumor necrosis factor-α. MMP-9 (matrix metalloproteinase-9), SOD (superoxide dismutase), CAT (catalase), and GPx (glutathione peroxidase) are antioxidant enzymes. LPS (lipopolysaccharide) is a component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria that induces strong inflammatory responses.

Fig. 4

Effects of pumpkin seed on gut health and microbiota modulation.