Pumpkin skin could prevent microbes that cause yeast infections in adults and infants every year, according to a new study.
Researchers, Kyung-Soo Hahm and Yoonkyung Park, noted that some disease-causing microbes are becoming resistant to existing antibiotics.
Scientists worldwide are searching for new antibiotics and may be considering pumpkins. Pumpkins have long been used in folk medicine and might have some antibiotic effects.
Results
The scientists studied proteins from pumpkin rinds to see if it inhibited the growth of microbes. One protein did have powerful effects with no toxic side effects.
The study states that this protein may be used for future medicines and treatments. The experiment also found that the protein stopped the growth of fungi that attack plant crops which means it could be used as an agricultural fungicide.