Untitled Document
The side effects of using pumpkin seed oil include gastrointestinal distress, skin inflammation, and heart issues, but generally speaking, very few are reported.
If used in appropriate amounts or diluted, pumpkin seed oil is safe and does not have any toxicities.
For internal consumption, no more than two teaspoons per day (800mg) are required for the therapeutic benefits of this oil; most people find that consuming 1 teaspoon per day is adequate.
- Skin Irritation: Pumpkin seed oil is a very potent and powerful substance that can have notable effects on the body, which can sometimes manifest as irritation, redness or swelling of the skin. For people with sensitive skin, it is best to put a small amount of this oil on the skin and wait for a few hours to see if any reaction occurs.
- Allergies: As with any concentrated oil from a plant or herb, an allergy to pumpkins means that you should stay away from this oil, as it can cause everything from topical dermatitis and swollen lips to more severe stomach issues and vomiting.
- Blood Pressure: The antioxidants and polyunsaturated fats found in pumpkin seed oil can help lower blood pressure, which is excellent for people concerned with their heart health. However, if you are already taking hypotensive medication, the combination can result in dangerously low blood pressure.
- Quality Issues: Pumpkin seed oil is quite susceptible to temperature and sunlight, which can hamper its quality. Normal shelf life is no more than 1 year, and when used past this point, it can result in stomach upset and gastrointestinal problems. *
