If you only use your pumpkin to carve a jack o’ lantern, you’re missing out. This versatile superfood is delicious, nutritious – and fabulous as a beauty treatment. Who knew?
Chock full of antioxidant vitamins A (beta carotene from that glorious orange colour), C and E that boost your immune system, support eye and skin health, and reduce inflammation; and the essential amino acid L-tryptophan, which increases serotonin and melatonin to promote a good night’s sleep, and banish the blues.
“I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself
than be crowded on a velvet cushion.”
– Henry David Thoreau
Here’s how to benefit from pumpkin, inside and out:
Outside
As well as antioxidants to protect against UV damage, pumpkin is rich in enzymes that mimic alpha-hydroxy acids that exfoliate, moisturize, smooth and protect your skin. Of course, freshly cooked and pureed organic pumpkin is best.
Make a mask
Mix two tsp. pumpkin puree with ½ tsp. of honey, and massage gently into your face (avoid the eyes). Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Best on clean, warm skin, fresh from the shower. For dry skin, add ½ tsp. coconut or pumpkin seed oil.
Condition your hair
Mix two cups pumpkin puree with one tablespoon each of yogurt, coconut or pumpkin seed oil, and honey. Apply to damp hair, wrap in a towel or shower cap for 15 minutes. Rinse and wash hair.
Buff your body
Mash together two cups pumpkin with ½ cup papaya. Add one cup of brown sugar and ¼ cup honey. Mix together well. Massage into your skin well, and then rinse with cool water.
