Pumpkins

History and origin of pumpkins

Its origin is uncertain although some historians place it in China while others say that the first pumpkins emerged in America in the territory that now constitutes Mexico. Its cultivation dates back to 5000 BC. It seems that some edible species were grown in Babylon and even on the surrounding areas of the Nile by the Egyptians.

In the beginning it was grown to leverage their seeds rather than for consumption. This changed once varieties with more fruity flavour and more flesh like the violin pumpkin emerged.

Following the theory of its origin in Asia, these were extended to Central America where they spread throughout America. Excavations kitchen items such as spoons or containers made from this material were found so we can say that initially were also used for this purpose and others including traditional musical elements.

They appeared at the same time in Mexico in civilizations like the Mayans, Olmecs and Aztecs while in China arose in the Valley of Yanzi Jiang.

Later in the fifteenth century the Spanish as with many other fruits and vegetables introduced pumpkin in Europe and followed a spread to countries with temperate and warm climate.

Properties and benefits of eating pumpkin

• Little contribution of carbohydrates and fats as its main content is water, which makes it a food with little caloric intake.
• Its fibre content is high so improves intestinal transit and its vitamin A and C makes it an anti-oxidant fruit.
• It contains potassium which helps lower blood pressure to counteract the effects of dietary sodium.
• The fibre content helps prevent constipation and maintain digestive health by stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria. Also being a satiating food is perfect for weight control.
• It helps maintain healthy bones for content that can help your body maintain healthy bone structure absorb more calcium, as well as to improve the mineral density of the spine.
• Its vitamin A is essential for vision, antioxidants protect your vision.
• Reduces inflammation due to its high content of antioxidants, the pumpkin has potent anti-inflammatory effects, which helps reduce the risk of diseases associated with inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis.