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.

In the medieval period, poppy seeds were widely used as sedatives. It was used in milk, opium, or a mixture of honey to calm crying babies, aid in sleeping, and also improve fertility issues in women.

There are 3 main varieties of poppy seeds available which are white poppy seeds (also known as Asian or Indian poppy seeds and are used in cuisines), blue poppy seeds (also known as European poppy seeds and are used in bread and other confectionery items), and oriental poppy seeds (also known as opium poppy, which produces opium and has commercial applications).

Health Benefits of Poppy Seeds

1. 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 types of research also suggest that the presence of lignin in the poppy seeds has an aphrodisiac effect which increases libido and enhances sexual health.

2. Treats Insomnia

The abundance of magnesium in the poppy seeds helps reduce the levels of cortisol which is a stress hormone and thereby 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.

3. Improves Cognitive Functioning

The abundance of iron in poppy seeds makes it a natural blood purifier and increases red blood cell and hemoglobin count in the blood. Proper supply of oxygen and red blood cells to the brain regulates the production of neurotransmitters and increases 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.

4. 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. The presence of manganese also helps in the production of collagen in the bones, protects the bone from damage, and enhances overall bone health.

5. Aids in Digestion

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

6. Enhance Cardiovascular System

The immense amount of dietary fibers 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 hemoglobin and red blood cell count of the blood. Oleic acid reduces the blood pressure levels and Omega-6 fatty acids in poppy make it extremely beneficial for the heart and also reduces chances of heart attacks and blockages.

7. Augments Skin and Hair Health

Poppy seeds being a powerhouse of antioxidants and essential nutrients reduce skin inflammation, scalp infections and promote 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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.

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.

Ref: https://www.netmeds.com/health-library/post/poppy-seeds-incredible-benefits-of-khus-khus-for-overall-health

Disclaimer:

The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. WINDHU KITCHEN is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts, or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of WINDHU KITCHEN does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.