Pumpkin, particularly pumpkin seed oil, has garnered some scientific interest regarding its potential benefits for hair health. A small number of clinical studies have evaluated pumpkin seed oil as a supplement for androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss). For instance, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in 2014 found that men who took 400 mg of pumpkin seed oil daily for 24 weeks showed an average 40% increase in hair count compared to 10% in the placebo group. The presumed mechanism involves the inhibition of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is implicated in hair follicle miniaturization and hair loss.

Additionally, pumpkin seeds are a source of nutrients such as zinc, vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants—all of which are associated with healthy hair growth and scalp health. However, beyond the limited clinical evidence focused on pumpkin seed oil, broader claims about pumpkin or pumpkin seeds as a whole supporting hair health are based more on their general nutritional value rather than direct evidence.

Overall, while traditional use for hair is limited and not well-documented, there is emerging but modest scientific support, particularly for pumpkin seed oil extract, justifying a rating of 2. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and establish optimal dosages and forms.