spicy Jack-o-lantern

It's that time of year again. Pumpkin picking, hay rides, pumpkin pie, Jack-O-Lanterns, pumpkin spice e-v-e-r-y-thing! When the leaves start to change and there’s a chill in the air, it can only mean one thing: pumpkin spice season is here. From lattes, to candles, to pumpkin beer, this iconic flavor has taken America by storm. In fact, it has become a cultural phenomenon that continues to grow each year. But what exactly is it about pumpkin spice that has captured our hearts and taste buds? Is it the warm and comforting aroma? The perfect blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves? Or perhaps it’s the nostalgia and cozy feelings it evokes in most of us?

One of the key reasons people are drawn to this spice is its distinct aroma. The warm and comforting scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves evokes feelings of coziness and nostalgia. It reminds us of crisp autumn days and holiday gatherings. The aroma alone can transport us to a place of comfort and happiness, making it a highly desirable flavor. Additionally, the flavor profile of pumpkin spice is incredibly versatile. It can be used in a wide range of sweet and savory dishes, from baked goods to beverages to savory roasted vegetables. This versatility allows people to incorporate it into their favorite foods and beverages, further enhancing the appeal of the flavor. Even candles, lotions and soaps in pumpkin spice scents get people excited!

B.Witching takes our popular Pumpkin & Honey collection a step further, as we use pumpkin seed oil in the formulation of our Pumpkin & Honey Lotion and other skincare products.  We find that it helps in keeping skin super soft and moisturized. And it’s almost good enough to eat. Time to get your pumpkin spice on!  Did you know, pumpkin seed oil is derived from the Styrian pumpkin originally grown in the southeast region of Austria? Styrian pumpkins have a yellow/green skin and yellow/orange flesh inside. Additionally they contain seeds that are dark green and do not have a shell. The seeds from this pumpkin contain Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C D, E and K, as well as many minerals including calcium and magnesium.  To make pumpkin seed oil, the seeds are manually removed from the pumpkins. Approximately 2.5 kg of pumpkin seeds are required to make one liter of pumpkin seed oil. Once the seeds have been removed they are washed, dried and roasted for a few minutes at a high temperature of about 140° F. Then the seeds are pressed using high pressure resulting in a dark greenish oil.

So as the leaves change and the air turns crisp, embrace the aromas of autumn and indulge in the craze. Whether you’re sipping a pumpkin spice latte, washing your hands with a pumpkin hand soap, or simply enjoying the aroma of a scented candle, let the flavors transport you to a place of comfort, warmth, and autumnal bliss.