A cousin of the pumpkin and other squash, red kuri squash is distinguished by its pear-like shape. It is a squash from the cucurbit family and is usually found in orange-red tones, with yellow flesh. It adds colour to dishes during the dark winter months, but this is not its only benefit.
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Red kuri squash is also a useful beauty product and a precious ally for our skin. It has been since ancient times when the Maya used it in the preparation of certain skin remedies. Dr Dominique Eraud, doctor, acupuncturist, phytotherapist, homoeopath, and nutritionist, uses the virtues of organic red kuri squash in beauty products—it moisturises, softens, and repairs the skin—through her new cosmetics line Pump’skin.
1. Healing and anti-inflammatory properties
The flesh and seeds from red kuri squash have long been used in medicine. The Maya applied its refreshing flesh to burns. Reduced to powder, the seeds were used by Amerindians to treat fever and intestinal disorders. The Romans used the seeds to fight against worms and the Arabs used the juice of the plant to soothe headaches. Dr Dominique Eraud explains:
It's scientific. Red kuri squash has healing and anti-inflammatory effects. It is naturally photoprotective, anti-wrinkle, and plays a role in repairing and regenerating skin tissue. It also promotes the elasticity of the skin and softens it.
2. Moisturising and soothing
Thanks to its concentration of beta-carotene, minerals, and vitamins (A, C, and E), red kuri squash contains everything you need to deeply moisturise and soothe even the most sensitive skin. In case you don't have anything else on hand, it is also capable of relieving superficial burns. Dr Eraud says:
Red kuri squash is 3 times richer in carotenoids than carrots. It thus helps to regenerate, repair, and heal skin cells. It also hydrates the skin thanks to the presence of carbohydrates and restores its barrier function, thus limiting dehydration thanks to the presence of lipids.
3. Powerful anti-ageing properties and a super detoxifier
Rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene, red kuri squash can largely be described as an anti-ageing and antioxidant ingredient. Not only does it help the skin defend itself against the harmful effects of the sun and free radicals, but it also promotes the natural production of collagen.
According to Dr Eraud:
Red kuri squash is rich in Vitamins A, C, E, B3, B5, and D3, Omega 6, 9, and 3 and trace elements, and improves the elasticity and vitality of the epidermis. Anti-radical and anti-ageing, it improves the radiance of the complexion. Red kuri squash is a regenerator, it restores the skin's barrier function.
4. Purifying and anti-acne
Even more miraculous, red kuri squash also has a positive effect on acne, which these days can be aggravated by wearing a mask. Packed with B vitamins such as niacin and folic acid, it helps improve blood circulation and thus boosts cell renewal, which is often at the root of what is known as ‘adult acne.’ It is a kind of purifying mini-exfoliant anti-blemish scrub.
