INGREDIENT:
Pumpkin
FANCY LATIN NAME:
Cucurbita pepo
WHAT'S THE HISTORY OF THE PUMPKIN?
The concept of Halloween originated from the Irish festival, Samhain, celebrated as a transitional time marking the end of harvest to the darker days and cooler weather. According to The History Channel, “Tradition dictated huge bonfires be built in fields, and it was believed that fairy spirits lurked in the shadows. To distract these spirits from settling into houses and farms, people would carve rudimentary faces into large turnips, and set candles inside.” As time went on, and Irish and Scottish immigrants journeyed to America to make new homes, they soon unpacked their local lore. Since North American soil produced more pumpkins than turnips, the turnip-o’-lanterns faded and jack-o’-lanterns as we know them were born. The term jack-o’-lantern also came over from the UK, where night watchmen with lanterns have been referred to as “Jack of the Lantern” since the 17th century. Pumpkin carving grew in popularity and by the 1930’s costumes and trick-or-treating was the new way to celebrate the harvest holiday.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PUMPKIN?
Pumpkins are rich in vitamin A, C, and E, all of which have benefits for the body and the skin. Vitamin A is excellent for your vision, and for helping skin cells recover from chronic sun damage. Vitamin C is a critical component of collagen, so having a handy supply in the body increases the likelihood of healthy collagen production. Try it roasted in the oven with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt—delish!
Pumpkin seeds are an incredible source of fiber, protein, and zinc—throw them on top of salad or yogurt for a nutritional boost! If you want to make your own, scrape the seeds out of the center of the pumpkin, clean them off, then toss the seeds with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper, and roast them at 300 degrees in the oven for about 20 minutes, until slightly brown and crispy. Let them cool on a paper towel, and then snack on them incessantly until they’re all gone, which will be in about seven minutes.
WHAT ARE THE SKIN BENEFITS OF PUMPKIN?
Pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene, a known antioxidant and free radical fighter. Applied to the skin, pumpkin’s alpha-hydroxy-acids help increase cell turnover, resulting in brighter, smoother skin over time. Pumpkin seed oil contains zinc and vitamin C, both of which can help strengthen skin cells, diminish scarring, and improve skin tone.
CAN I PUT ACTUAL PUMPKIN ON MY FACE?
Yes! It's super easy! Try making a DIY face mask by mixing pure, organic pumpkin puree with raw honey and almond meal. Leave it on your skin for 10 minutes, then massage away in the shower!
Which Osmia products use pumpkin?
Check out our favorite, pumpkin-packed products!
PUMPKIN FACIAL SOAP
Organic pumpkin and tomato are incorporated into our well-loved facial soap recipe for a gentle yet effective enzymatic exfoliation. The mild exfoliating action is complemented by the soothing, softening action of organic honey and camellia seed oil. Calms the senses, brightens the complexion.
BRIGHTEN FACIAL SERUM
This brightening botanical treatment was formulated to support healthy cell turnover and improve the texture of the skin. Camellia seed, argan, prickly pear, broccoli, and pumpkin seed oils create the perfect, velvety texture to nourish and soften the skin.
NECTAR NOURISHING DROPS
Organic oils of safflower, argan, prickly pear, and pumpkin seed work together to create a powerfully softening blend with a smooth, silky texture. By adding 3-4 drops of Nectar to your usual face cream or serum, you will notice that your skin is finally able to retain moisture throughout the day.
With love and scoops of pumpkin,
,