As with all seeds, they contain abundant calcium for bones and teeth, but additionally carry a large amount of other minerals, such as iron, zine and magnesium. Their reputation as a male sexual tonic lies in their high zinc content, protecting the prostate gland and enhancing sperm health. Organic pumpkin seeds have a darker green colour, revealing a higher content of magnesium, a key mineral component of the green plant pigment chlorophyll.

Magnesium aids the absorption of calcium and is an excellent muscle relaxant.

But it doesn' t stop there. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of protein and omega-3 essential fats, great for lubricating skin and joints and soothing inflammatory conditions like asthma, eczema, hay fever and arthritis - and keeping your brain on an even keel. Eat them every day. Raw is best, though a delicious, moreish alternative is to dry-roast them in a pan till they start to brown, then add a dash of soy sauce that sizzles off and coats the seeds.