Bioactive compounds in pumpkin (Cucurbita species) seeds as natural alternatives in the management of erectile dysfunction: A focus on cucurbitacin
Abstract
Sexual dysfunction, particularly erectile dysfunction (ED), is a prevalent health concern in men with substantial physical, psychological, and interpersonal implications. ED currently affects over 150 million men globally, with projections exceeding 322 million by 2025, and is increasingly recognised as an early marker of systemic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and endocrine disorders. Standard therapy relies on phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, which are effective but limited by adverse side effects, prompting interest in complementary therapies, including the use of pumpkin seeds. This review employed a systematic literature search across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, using keywords including “pumpkin seeds,” “Cucurbita pepo,” “cucurbitacins,” “benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH),” and “erectile dysfunction (ED),” focusing on peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025. Studies reporting mechanistic insights, preclinical findings, or clinical outcomes related to pumpkin seed bioactive compounds were included. Pumpkin (Cucurbita species) is highlighted for its phytochemical richness, particularly cucurbitacins, and its potential role in improving erectile function. The review highlights the need for further research to confirm the efficacy of cucurbitacins in directly enhancing erectile function and to elucidate their mechanisms of action. Key words: Erectile dysfunction, alternative therapies, Cucurbita species seeds,…
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