Cucurbita moschata, commonly known as butternut squash, is related to other pumpkin species whose seeds (often labeled as pumpkin seed or pepita) have a history of use in traditional medicine for urinary tract and prostate health, notably in the management of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). The scientific rationale for its use largely stems from studies on pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo and other Cucurbita species), which contain phytosterols, delta-7-sterols, and fatty acids thought to exert antiandrogenic and anti-inflammatory effects that may alleviate lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with BPH.

Clinical evidence for Cucurbita moschata specifically is limited. Most human studies either focus on Cucurbita pepo or use mixtures of various Cucurbita species' seed extracts. A small number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies on pumpkin seed extracts show modest improvements in urinary symptoms and quality of life in men with BPH, but these trials are generally of low to moderate quality and do not always specify the exact species used. There is little direct evidence for Cucurbita moschata seed extract as a monotherapy for BPH. Thus, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and some supportive clinical evidence for the genus, the evidence for Cucurbita moschata specifically is weak, and rated as 2/5.