- Description of the plant
- Properties of the Hokkaido pumpkin
- Calories and nutrition facts of Hokkaido squash
Description of the plant
There are many varieties of vegetables belonging to the Curbubitaceae family: the pumpkins have similar characteristics: the orange color is due to the high content of beta-carotene, a vegetable pigment with antioxidant properties which in the body is converted into vitamin A.
Still, pumpkins are rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, potassium, zinc and lots of fiber. A very special variety is the
Hokkaido, born on the Japanese island of the same name.
La zucca Hokkaido, or Potimarron, is a premium quality squash. This pumpkin adapts to any type of soil even if it prefers loose soil; it can be grown in any area of ​​the country because it adapts very well to different temperatures and can be sown outdoors from April-May, in a heated greenhouse from February-March.
The fruits are of a comfortable size for consumption, in fact, they reach a
weight that can vary from 800 to 1500 g. The rind of this pumpkin is also consumed, which is tender and cooks like the pulp.
Properties of the Hokkaido pumpkin
La pulp of the Hokkaido pumpkin it is suitable for preparing low-calorie dishes. Despite the reduced calorie and fat content, this variety has a pleasant walnut taste.
The peel can also be consumed, it is in fact rich in beta-carotene and, if well cooked, it becomes soft like the pulp.
Low in sodium but rich in carotenoids, amino acids, mucilages and pectic substances, the pumpkin it proves to be a good ally for the health of the organism.
Mainly the pulp is known to be purifying and diuretic, therefore very important to eliminate stagnation of liquids, favor the expulsion of toxins, especially in the intestine and liver, and make the kidneys work well.
It also avoids bacterial inflammation of the bladder. The juice of this pumpkin is a very valuable ally against gastric disorders, in particular against ulcer and acidity and dyspepsia and also against prostate pathologies.
In case of stomach upset it is recommended to drink a glass of pumpkin juice before meals. For topical and cosmetic use, Hokkaido pumpkin pulp is recommended against skin inflammations, hives and irritation. It has anti-aging properties, so it is suitable for face masks, it is also emollient, purifying and deeply hydrates the skin. It is also a good natural remedy for insect bites.
Calories and nutrition facts of Hokkaido squash
1) Nutritional composition per 100 grams of edible part:
- 63 calories
- 13 g carbohydrates
- 1 g fat
- 2 g proteins
