Table 1 Functional constituents present in pumpkin and their pharmacological activities related to COVID 19 pandemic

1

Vitamin C

Destroys free radicals in the body and boost immune system

2

Vitamin E

Act as antioxidant by scavenging the free radicals in the body

3

Vitamin D

Encounter the viral infections, especially respiratory tract infections which are common in COVID 19 outbreak

4

β carotene

Powerful antioxidant, reduces inflammation by increasing the production of diseases fighting cells in the body

5

Zinc

Increases the production of white blood cells in body, the agents defending body against viruses

6

Iron

Necessary for normal functioning of biochemical functions in the body, homeostasis risk of infection

7

Selenium

Boost both innate and adaptive immune system

8

Polysaccharides

Reduce level of oxidative stress in cells and tissues and play role as antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, antidiabetic and antitumor

9

Proteins (peptides, enzymes)

Act as antimicrobial, inhibit growth of melanoma, counteract intoxication,

10

Lipids (fats, essential oils, fatty acids)

Play role as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anticarcinogenic and hypotensive