Description

Poppy Seeds are the nutty oilseeds obtained from the poppy plant, which is a staple condiment apart from garlic and
mustard, found in Indian kitchens.

Known by the vernacular names khus khus in Hindi, kasakasa in Tamil and Gasagasalu in Telugu, this flowering plant 
is widely cultivated across Southeastern Europe and eastern and southern Asia.

Poppy, which goes by the botanical name Papaver somniferum is not only beneficial for its use in culinary applications
but also for its wide range of health benefits in treating a host of ailments including heart problems, digestion, 
hair and skin issues, insomnia, diabetes, bone disorder and neural problems.

Health Benefits of Poppy Seeds

Promotes Female Fertility

Poppy seeds and their oil is extremely beneficial for boosting female fertility. A blocked fallopian tube doesn’t 
allow the fertilized egg to attach itself to the uterine wall. Flushing the fallopian tube with poppy seed oil 
dissolves any debris or mucus particles from the fallopian tube and helps to clear the blockage, hence increasing
 the chances of fertility. Several researches also suggest that presence of lignin in the poppy seeds has an 
aphrodisiac effect which increases libido and enhances sexual health.

Treats Insomnia

The abundance of magnesium in the poppy seeds help reduce the levels of cortisol which is a stress hormone and there
by attenuates stress and improves the quality, duration and provides a peaceful sleep. Consuming poppy seed tea or 
paste of poppy seed with milk, before going to sleep is highly effective in regulating body metabolism, inducing 
sleep and treating sleep disorders like insomnia.

Improves Cognitive Functioning

The abundance of iron in poppy seeds makes it a natural blood purifier and increases red blood cell and haemoglobin
 count in blood. Proper supply of oxygen and red blood cells to the brain regulates production of neurotransmitters
 and increases the cognitive functioning, making poppy seeds one of the brain foods that help you concentrate and 
reduce the risk of diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s .

Boosts Bone Health

Poppy seeds are incredibly rich in calcium, besides the trace minerals copper and zinc. These are essential in 
improving bone mineral density, strengthening the bones and connective tissue and preventing them from breaking. 
Presence of manganese also helps in the production of collagen in the bones, protects the bone from damage and
 enhances overall bone health.

Aids in Digestion

Being an excellent source of fiber, poppy seeds are extremely beneficial in promoting digestion and increases 
absorption of nutrients from the food. It also treats constipation and allows easy passage of food through the
 alimentary canal.

Enhances Cardiovascular System

The immense amount of dietary fibres in poppy seeds reduce bad cholesterol levels and keep good cholesterol up. 
Loaded with iron, it acts as a natural blood purifier and helps in increasing the haemoglobin and red blood cell 
count of the blood. Oleic acid reduces the blood pressure levels and Omega-6 fatty acids in poppy makes it extremely
 beneficial for the heart and also reduces chances of heart attacks and blockages.

Augments Skin and Hair Health

Poppy seeds being a powerhouse of antioxidants and essential nutrients reduce skin inflammation, scalp infections 
and promotes overall skin and hair health. The high amount of linoleic acid in poppy makes it extremely effective 
in treating eczema, burns and itching. Applying poopy seed paste as a mask on the face helps in treating acne and 
pimples and provides a clear, glowing complexion, to make you beautiful.

It also stimulates hair growth, treats dandruff and prevents hair fall.

Prevents Ulcers

The anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of poppy seeds play a pivotal role in treating different types 
of ulcers like ulcerative colitis, peptic ulcer, canker sores or mouth ulcers, etc. The bioactive compounds in the
 seeds of poppy encourage tissue regeneration and promotes wound healing.

Simply make a pellet by mixing some grounded poppy seeds to crushed dry coconut, and powdered sugar candy and suck 
on this for instant relief from mouth ulcers.

Regulates Blood Pressure

The presence of oleic acid in poppy seeds actively helps in normalizing the blood pressure levels and keeps it under
check. It is extremely pivotal in both high and low blood pressure conditions. By promoting the heart 
functions, it enhances cardiovascular endurance and hence diminishes the chances of cardiac anomalies like heart 
attack, heart blockage, stroke etc.

Bolsters Immunity

Thanks to the wealth of antioxidants and bioactive components, Poppy seeds offer several folk remedies for 
improving the immune system, resisting microbes and shielding the body against various infections. It also 
portrays the presence of strong anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and antifungal properties, and mineral zinc which is 
extremely effective in preventing infections like fever, common cold, sore throat, and other respiratory anomalies.

Ways To Incorporate Poppy Seeds In The Diet

Poppy seeds are used in spectrum of cuisines across the globe that renders a rich nutty flavour to the dishes. They
should be cleaned well to remove any stones or impurities before using.

Poppy seeds should be soaked in warm water or milk for 2 hours. Soaked seeds are ground with other spices to thicken 
gravies or used as such.

Poppy seeds are tasteless, but when heated attain a nutty, spicy-sweet flavour. Roasting or baking offer a mild sweet
smell, while deep frying releases aromatic oils, which makes it crunchier.

Poppy seeds are added in bakery products like muffins, cookies, bread, they are also added to salads and vegetables.

Top it on toast or cheese to add some crunch.

Recipe

Tomato, Chickpea, Feta Salad

Ingredients

1 cup diced cherry tomatoes

1/4 cup feta cheese

1/2 cup chickpeas

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Salt and Pepper to taste

Method

In a bowl add all the ingredients and blend well.

Relish the wholesome salad.

Nutritional Fact:

Chickpea is a wholesome food that delivers ample amounts of proteins, dietary fibres, vitamins, for regulating blood
sugar and managing weight. Low in calories and high in antioxidants tomatoes boost immunity and uplift skin health. 
Poppy seeds bestowed with a treasure trove of nutrients promotes fertility, induces sound sleep, and improves 
cognitive functions.

Conclusion

These nutty seeds with a distinct aroma and flavour are mostly used in the form of condiments. Packed with 
carbohydrates, proteins, dietary fibres, electrolytes, essential vitamins and minerals, these seeds are extremely
 beneficial for treating a host of ailments including heart problems, kidney disorders, sleeplessness, gastrointestinal 
issues and promotes cognitive functioning and overall health.