Pumpkin seed extract is effective in improving pelvic floor health. It helps to strengthen pelvic floor muscles and enhances control of muscles involved in passing urine 🚽.
The chemicals in pumpkin seed can increase urination, which might help relieve bladder and prostate discomfort. Some chemicals might also reduce swelling in the prostate.
Pumpkin 🎃 seeds are an excellent source of essential fatty acids and antioxidants and studies have continuously shown that pumpkin seed extract can improve symptoms of overactive bladder, making them an essential addition to a bladder-friendly diet.
Can Pumpkin Seed Extract Help Interstitial Cystitis?
Pumpkin seed extract, which is often made from pumpkin seed oil, is a natural supplement that some people use to help manage Interstitial Cystitis (IC), also called bladder pain syndrome (BPS). While it is not a cure, it may help support bladder health and reduce some IC symptoms.
How Pumpkin Seed Extract May Help Interstitial Cystitis
May Help Reduce Bladder Inflammation
Pumpkin seed oil contains healthy fats, antioxidants, and plant compounds called phytosterols. These nutrients may help lower bladder inflammation, which can reduce bladder pain, irritation, and discomfort in some people with interstitial cystitis.
May Support a Healthier Bladder
Some research suggests that pumpkin seed extract may help keep the bladder muscles and bladder lining healthy. A stronger bladder may help reduce urinary urgency, frequent urination, urge incontinence, and waking up at night to urinate (nocturia).
May Help Relieve Bladder Pain
Pumpkin seed extract has been used for many years to support the urinary tract. Some studies suggest it may have pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. These benefits may help some people with bladder pain syndrome feel more comfortable.
Rich in Nutrients for Bladder Health
Pumpkin seed extract is a good source of important nutrients, including:
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Potassium
- Vitamin E
These nutrients help support a healthy urinary system and may improve overall bladder function.
What Does the Research Say?
A 12-week clinical study found that people who took 10 grams of pumpkin seed oil each day had fewer overactive bladder symptoms. They also reported less urinary urgency, fewer bathroom trips, and better bladder control.
Some people with interstitial cystitis have also shared that pumpkin seed extract helped reduce nighttime urination, urinary frequency, and other bladder symptoms. However, not everyone gets the same results, and more research is needed.
Is Pumpkin Seed Extract Safe?
For most people, pumpkin seed extract is considered safe and has very few side effects. If you decide to try it, look for a cold-pressed or virgin pumpkin seed oil supplement. These products keep more of the natural nutrients that may help support bladder health.
Bottom Line
Pumpkin seed extract may be a helpful natural supplement for some people with interstitial cystitis, bladder pain syndrome, or overactive bladder. It may help reduce bladder inflammation, support bladder function, improve urinary urgency and frequency, and promote better urinary tract health. While early research is encouraging, larger studies are still needed to confirm how well it works for people with IC.
Sources 🎃
https://www.advancedurologyinstitute.com/natural-remedies-for-an-overactive-bladder/
https://www.wearejude.com/blog/health/5-foods-for-a-happy-healthy-bladder
http://www.pelvichelpsupport.org
TREATING INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS 