1. PUMPKIN RHJYH

2. The pumpkin plant is a rambling vine. They have large, dark green leaves, orange trumpet- shaped flowers, and prickly hairs on the stems and leaves. Like cucumbers, corn, and muskmelons, the pumpkin has separate male and female flowers on the same plant.

3. ORIGIN OF THE NAME Pumpkins are native of Western Hemisphere. References to pumpkins date back many centuries. The name pumpkin originated from the Greek word for "large melon" which is "pepon." The French changed it to "pompon." The English changed "pompon" to "Pumpion." American colonists changed "pumpion" into "pumpkin."

4. They are typically only available during fall and early winter; however, canned pumpkin is just as nutritious as fresh. Fresh pumpkin or canned pumpkin puree can be used to make soups, muffins, breads, puddings, and smoothies. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten as a snack, used to top salads or added to vegetables. Pumpkin-seed oil can be used in cooking or as a salad dressing.

5. NUTRIENTS IN PUMPKIN Pumpkin is low in fat and calories and rich in disease-fighting nutrients such as: Alpha-carotene Beta-caroteneNutrients in Pumpkin Pumpkin is low in fat and calories and rich in disease-fighting nutrients such as: Alpha-carotene Beta-carotene Fiber Vitamins C and E Potassium Magnesium Pantothenic acid Fiber Vitamins C and E Potassium Magnesium Pantothenic acid

6. Health Benefits of Pumpkin Pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber that helps reduce cholesterol levels, protect the body against heart disease, control blood sugar levels, promote healthy digestion, and plays a role in weight loss. Vitamin C reduces the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease, and regulates cholesterol levels. Pumpkin is also a good sourse of vitamin E which promotes healthy skin by protecting the body from sun damage and may reduce the risk of Alzheimer´s disease and certain cancers.

7. The potassium found in pumpkin promotes strong bones and helps to control blood pressure. Pumpkin is also rich in magnesium, which aids the body in hundreds of functions, including promoting a healthy immune system, contributing to bone strength, and normalizing heart function.

8. PUMPKIN SEEDS Pumpkin seeds also contain essential vitamins and minerals, they are a good source of vitamin E, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and are an excellent plant-based source of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.