Pumpkin Seed Oil

Description

Pumpkin seed oil, also known as “green gold” or “styrian oil”, is a dark, richly flavored oil extracted from the seeds of pumpkins (Cucurbita pepo), particularly the Styrian variety grown in Austria, Slovenia, and parts of Eastern Europe. This oil is prized not only for its distinctive taste and deep emerald-green color, but also for its dense nutrient profile, culinary elegance, and health-supporting compounds. It is often regarded as a gourmet oil, commonly used in salads, soups, pastas, and desserts, and is also a prominent component in natural remedies and skincare products.

The production process of pumpkin seed oil is highly artisanal in many regions. The seeds are cleaned, roasted at low temperatures to enhance their flavor, and then pressed to extract the oil. The result is a thick, dark oil with a nutty, earthy, and slightly sweet flavor that adds depth and complexity to both savory and sweet dishes. Due to its low smoke point of around 320°F (160°C), pumpkin seed oil is not suitable for high-heat cooking like frying or grilling. Instead, it excels as a finishing oil, adding rich flavor and a vibrant color contrast to plated dishes.

Nutritionally, pumpkin seed oil is a powerhouse. It is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, especially linoleic acid (omega-6) and oleic acid (omega-9). These fatty acids support cardiovascular health, help reduce bad cholesterol, and maintain healthy cell membranes. What makes pumpkin seed oil stand out, however, are its high concentrations of phytosterols, zinc, magnesium, vitamin E (tocopherols), and selenium—all of which play critical roles in supporting the immune system, prostate health, hair and skin vitality, and overall cellular protection.

Traditionally, pumpkin seed oil has been used in folk medicine for:

• Supporting prostate health and treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

• Alleviating urinary tract and bladder conditions

• Enhancing hair growth and reducing hair fall

• Improving skin hydration and elasticity

• Balancing hormones and reducing menopausal symptoms

In culinary use, pumpkin seed oil is incredibly versatile when used raw:

• Drizzled over roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or risotto

• Mixed into salad dressings and vinaigrettes

• Blended into hummus, dips, and pestos

• Poured over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a nutty twist

• Added to soups or pasta for a gourmet finish

Its thick texture and rich color make it a stunning garnish. When poured, it appears dark green but shows ruby red hues when held against the light—a visual signature of its purity and artisan quality.

Pumpkin seed oil is also popular in skincare and haircare routines. Thanks to its zinc, selenium, and vitamin E content, it nourishes the scalp, strengthens hair roots, and can help reduce dandruff and flakiness. When applied to the skin, it promotes hydration, elasticity, and can reduce the appearance of fine lines and inflammation.

However, because it is sensitive to heat, light, and air, pumpkin seed oil should always be stored in dark glass bottles, away from direct sunlight, and refrigerated after opening. It typically has a shelf life of 6–12 months, but will go rancid faster if exposed to improper conditions.

In terms of sustainability, pumpkin seed oil is relatively eco-friendly, especially when made from culinary pumpkin byproducts. In regions like Styria, pumpkin seed oil is considered a protected regional product, produced according to traditional methods under geographic indication laws.

In conclusion, pumpkin seed oil is a nutrient-dense, luxurious, and deeply flavorful oil that enriches both the body and the plate. Whether you’re adding elegance to a dish or nourishing your skin and hair, this velvety, antioxidant-rich oil delivers a powerful blend of flavor, function, and folk wisdom, making it a cherished oil in both culinary and wellness traditions.

Quantity is 5 litre