The utilization of the seeds of the wild perennial gourds

Abstract

Conclusions The experiments described above indicate that the seeds from three species of wild perennial gourds,Cucurbita foetidissima, C. digitata, andC. palmata, have a potential value. Drying oils, high protein flour, and chemically purified protein may easily be obtained from the seeds by standard procedures used for other oil seeds. While theC. digitata andC. palmata oils are different than other natural drying oils, their evaluation would place them in the class with linseed oil for general use in protective coatings.C. foetidissima lacks the conjugated triene component so is a somewhat “softer” drying oil, more smilar to soybean. The wild gourds should continue to receive serious consideration as an oil seed crop, particularly for arid and semi‐arid land.

Phenotypic variation in fruit and seed characteristics of buffalo gourd

“…The Buffalo gourd, Cucurbita foetidissima HBK., exhibits agronomic potential as a arid adapted crop (1)(2)(3)(4). This feral, xerophytic cucurbit produces seeds rich in protein (32.9%) and oil (33.0%) (5).…”

Buffalo gourd roots: chemical composition and seasonal changes in starch content

“…Since midcentury, the Buffalo gourd (Cucúrbita foetidissima HBK.) has been recognized by several authors (Bolley et al, 1950;Curtis, 1946;Shahani et al, 1951) as a potential source of oil and protein for production on arid and semiarid lands. This species, native to southwestern United States and northern Mexico, was described extensively by Bemis et al (1975).…”

Studies on carotenoids and oxidative stability of winter squash seed and soybean oils

“…"; has been recognized (Shahani, 1951). The oil is characterized as a semi-drying oil similar to soybean oil (Bolley, 1950). Although the crude oil has a dark colour, processed oil has good stability and does not undergo flavor reversion.…”