Abstract

A REVIEW ON CHEMICALS AND MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE OF DIFFERENT PARTS OF CUCURBITA MAXIMA

Arshad Ahmad*, Pradeep Kumar and Asif Saifi

ABSTRACT

Cucurbita maxima or pumpkin is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family. It has been suggested in several literature publications to have anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-cancer, immunomodulator, antimicrobial, and anti-hyperlipidemic properties. One crucial method for treating type 2 diabetic mellitus In India, a creeper called Cucurbita maxima is particularly common on residential rooftops. Seeds, leaves, flowers, and fruit stalks are the portions that are utilised. It contains saponins, resin, protein, fixed oil, sugar, starch, and other substances, like other Cucurbitaceous plants do. It also has detectable amounts of calcium and glutamic acid. Anthelminitic, taenicide, and diuretic are present in the seeds. The seeds' oil is a nervine tonic. Indians frequently use fruit in their curries. The seeds are consumed, while the leaves are used as a pot herb. Fruit pulp that has been dried out is a treatment for hemoptysis and haemorrhages. The alternative use in phytopharmacy, based on known medicinal applications as well as published data on the chemical makeup of seeds, leaves, fruits, and flowers.

Keywords: Cucurbita maxima, pumpkin, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hepatoprotective, diuretic.