Chapter 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Malunggay or Moringa oelifera is known as “nature’s medicine cabinet” because it

is loaded with minerals and vitamins, that can be an effective remedy against many kinds of

sickness.There are many health benefits of malunggay or malunggay juice. Its leaves are rich in

Vitamins which plays an important role in maintaining the body’s health.

Malunggay has anti-cancer compounds or phytochemicals that help prevent the

growth of cancer cells.It helps strengthens the body’s immune system. Malunggay contains four

times the calcium in milk, so it is advisable for lactating mothers to consume malunggay leaves,

to produce more milk for their babies.Malunggay leaves can help normalize blood sugar level,

which can help in the prevention of diabetes.

It contains nutrients such as, calcium which is vital for strong teeth, bones and help

prevents bone diseases. Protein which is important for muscle development. Potassium for healthy

brain. Vitamin A which prevents skin, eye, heart diseases. Vitamin C which fights cough, fever,

colds and flu. Vitamin D which prevents cancer,and the like.(Landry,2015)

Pumpkins: Their vitamin- and nutrient-rich flesh and seeds can improve your love

life, promote weight loss, and smooth out your skin. According to the Mayo Clinic, pumpkins are

an amazing source of vitamin A, an anti-aging nutrient that jump-starts your skin’s cell renewal

process and increases the production of collagen for smooth, youthful-looking skin.It can loose

weight,a cup of the orange veggie provides a healthy dose of fiber—about three grams—with just

50 calories and no fat. High fiber foods promote satiety; since your body takes longer to digest

them, they may encourage you to eat less overall.It can improve prostate health. They contain
protective compounds called phytosterols, which may help shrink the prostate. Pumpkin seeds can

also help your body get rid of nasty gut parasites that can make you sick, according to registered

pharmacist Debbie Edson in Living Well Magazine. They have traditionally been used for this

purpose by Native Americans; even today, pumpkin seeds are used to treat tapeworms in some

parts of Africa.(Farr,2018)

Pumpkin are little powerhouses of nutrients and health benefits.It is a great source

of protein and unsaturated fats, including omega-3. They also contain a good range of nutrients

including iron, selenium, calcium, B vitamins and beta-carotene, which the body converts into

vitamin A. A 2011 animal study found that pumpkin may be helpful in preventing diabetic

complications, such as high cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Being an excellent source of

magnesium, pumpkin can help regulate blood pressure as part of a healthy diet, but more research

is needed on the role magnesium plays in this area. Magnesium is needed for normal sleep

regulation and so consuming pumpkin, which are a good source of magnesium, may help improve

sleep. A 2014 study found that pumpkin , may have the potential to prevent or treat urinary

disorders.( Shubrook,2014)

Pumpkin is a highly nutrient-dense food. It is rich in vitamins and minerals but

low in calories. Pumpkin seeds, leaves, and juices all pack a powerful nutritional punch.There are

many ways pumpkin can be incorporated into desserts, soups, salads, preserves, and even as a

substitute for butter. The potassium contained within pumpkins can have a positive effect on blood

pressure.The antioxidants in pumpkin could help prevent degenerative damage to the eyes.

Pumpkin has a range of fantastic health benefits, including being one of the

best-known sources of beta-carotene.Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant. It also gives

orangevegetables and fruits their vibrant color. The body converts any ingested beta-carotene into
vitamin A.Consuming foods rich in beta-carotene may reduce the risk of developing certain types

of cancer, offer protection against asthma and heart disease, and delay aging and body

degeneration. Pumpkins are also a powerful source of fiber.It can protect immunity.Pumpkin pulp

and seeds are high in both vitamin C and beta-carotene. These offer a boost to the immune system

using a powerful combination of nutrients.Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A. This triggers

the creation of white blood cells that fight infection.(Gill,2018)