This recipe comes from the book titled “Nourishing Traditions”

By “Sally Fallon with Mary G. Enig, PhD

Where to buy the Book

 

 

 

PEPITAS     (Crispy Pumpkins Seeds)

 

4 Cups

 

4      Cups raw, hulled pumpkin sees

2        Tablespoons sea salt

1        Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper

Filtered water

Dissolve salt in water and add pumpkin seeds, cayenne pepper.  Leave in a warm place for at least 8 hours or overnight [the pumpkin seeds will absorb the water so make sure that they are still covered with water when you go to bed.).  Drain in a colander and spread on a stainless steel baking pan.  Place in a warm oven (no more than 150 degrees or your lowest setting) for about 12 hours turning occasionally, or until thoroughly dry and crisp.  Store in an airtight container.

 

PUMPKIN SEEDS

 

Nutritional Benefits

 

Pumpkin seeds supply minerals such as phosphorous, magnesium, iron manganese, zinc, and copper.  In addition, pumpkin seeds are a good source of vitamin A, vitamins B1, B2, and B3, protein, monounsaturated fats, and phytosterols, particularly beta-sitosterol.

 

In one-third cup of shelled pumpkin seeds there are about 90 calories, 4 gram of fat, 4 grams of protein, and 11 grams of carbohydrate.

 

HEALTH BENEFITS

 

Naturopathic doctors have utilized the benefits of pumpkin seeds to treat prostate conditions and yeast infection effectively. 

 

SEA SALT

 

Medicinal Properties

 

Salt is vital to good health, and it is required by the human body in order to function properly. Sodium functions as an electrolyte, and assists with regulating the electrical charges within our cells. Chloride supports potassium absorption, enhances carbon dioxide transportation, regulates body fluid levels, and is an essential component of digestive acids. Salt is a necessary element, and life itself would be impossible without it.

 

Cayenne Pepper  

 

HEALTH BENEFITS

 

Cayenne is an anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant.  It can ease aspirin-induced upset stomach, fights ulcers, and enhances athletic performance.  Cayenne is a digestive aid.  It stimulates the production of gastric juices, aids metabolism, and relieves gas. 

 

Reference:

 

“The Encyclopedia Of Healing Foods” by Michael Murray N.D.  Copyright 2005; page 454 – 455 Pumpkin Seed.

 

Mountain Rose Herbs learning page for Sea salt. 

 

“The Encyclopedia Of Healing Foods” by Michael Murray N.D.  Copyright 2005; pages 472 – 473 Cayenne Pepper.

 

“Prescription for Herbal Healing” by Phyllis A. Bach copyright 2002; pages 43 - 44 Cayenne Pepper.