The toxicity of pumpkin seed (Cucurbita pepo L.)

Abstract

(1) No experimental evidence was obtained to support the contention that pumpkin seed produces paralysis in stock. A young sheep drenched with large amounts of fresh seed developed transient diarrhoea. It is possible that pumpkins grown in different areas differ in their effects on stock. (2) The evidence found in the literature in regard to the value of the seed as a taenifuge is contradictory. It is possible that the ingredient (or ingredients), which is responsible for the effect of the seed as a taenifuge, varies in the specimens of pumpkin grown in different areas. (3) The fatty oil and the resin contained in pumpkin seed appears to be non-toxic to animals and human beings when given in moderate doses.