Poppy Seeds

Poppy Seeds: A Tiny Seed, a Flavorful Punch

Poppy Seeds are small, black, or white seeds obtained from the opium poppy plant (Papaver somniferum), commonly known as Khashkhash in Pakistan which has been used as a traditional remedy for centuries. Poppy seeds are used in baked goods and traditional dishes worldwide. Both the seeds and their oil are said to offer numerous health benefits, including supporting bone health, aiding digestion, potentially boosting heart health, and providing essential nutrients like fiber, calcium, and magnesium.

What are Poppy Seeds Called in Different Languages?

• English: Poppy Seeds
• Urdu: خشخاش (Khashkhash)
• Persian: خشخاش (Khashkhash)

Nutritional Facts

Poppy seeds are a good source of:

• Calcium: Helps maintain strong bones.
• Magnesium: Involved in numerous bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function.
• Manganese: An essential trace mineral involved in bone formation and metabolism.
• Copper: Important for iron absorption and energy production.
• Dietary Fiber: Contributes to digestive health.

Nutritional Value

100 g of raw, whole Poppy Seeds contain
Nutrient	Amount
Energy	536 kcal
Carbohydrates	28.57 g
Protein	21.43 g
Total lipid (Fat)	39.29 g
Fiber	25 g
Sugar	3.57 g
Calcium	1250 mg
Iron	9.64 mg
Magnesium	357 mg
Sodium	0 mg
Zinc	8.04 mg
Vitamin C	0 mg
Fatty acids, total saturated	5.36 g
Fatty acids, total trans	0 g
Cholesterol	0 mg

Health Benefits

• Rich in Nutrients: Rich in fiber, healthy fats, and several micronutrients. In particular, they are an excellent source of Manganese.
• Improves Bone Health: Packed with both Calcium and Manganese, crucial minerals for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Calcium is the primary building block of bone tissue, while manganese supports bone formation and density.
• Aids in Digestive Health: The high fiber content of these seeds aids in digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Fiber also contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can be helpful for weight management.
• Improves Heart Health: These seeds contain healthy unsaturated fats, including omega-6 fatty acids, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The minerals within the seeds also contribute to good cardiovascular health.
• Supports Nervous System: Manganese plays a role in nerve function and brain health.
• Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Traditionally, they have been used for their calming effects, potentially due to the presence of trace amounts of alkaloids. While the levels are very low in culinary poppy seeds, they may contribute to a mild calming effect.
• Treats Insomnia: The abundance of magnesium in the them help reduce the levels of cortisol which is a stress hormone and thereby attenuates stress and improves the quality, duration and provides a peaceful sleep.
• Antioxidant Properties: Contain antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can contribute to overall health and well-being.
• Rich in Minerals: Beyond calcium and manganese, they provide other essential minerals like iron, zinc, and copper, which are vital for various bodily functions, including immune support and red blood cell production.
• Promotes Healthy Skin and Hair: Being a powerhouse of antioxidants and essential nutrients reduce skin inflammation, and scalp infections and promote overall skin and hair health.
• Prevents Ulcers: The anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of these seeds play a pivotal role in treating different types of ulcers like ulcerative colitis, peptic ulcer, canker sores mouth ulcers, etc.
• May help regulate hormones: These seeds contain lignans, which have estrogen-like properties and may help regulate hormonal balance in women.

Culinary Uses

In many cultures, these are used to add a unique nutty flavor and texture to various dishes. They are commonly found in:

• Baking: Added to bread, cakes, pastries, and buns for a slightly nutty crunch.
• Traditional Cuisine: Used in various dishes like semolina halwa, curries, and desserts.
• European Cuisine: Found in some breads and pastries.

Note

• It’s crucial to note that only food-grade poppy seeds should be consumed and must be purchased from reliable sources.
• Food-grade seeds undergo strict processing to ensure they do not contain any trace amounts of opioids.
• Using poppy seeds for non-culinary purposes is illegal in many countries.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for general knowledge and informational purposes only. Individual results may vary. We do not guarantee the efficacy of any product sold on this site. For optimal health benefits, incorporate our products into a balanced lifestyle that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Our products are intended for dietary use only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease. They should not be considered as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Consult with your physician before use, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or have any existing health conditions.

By purchasing and using our products, you agree to release us from any liability arising from your use of the products. Feel free to contact us with any question or concern.

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FAQs

Q. Are poppy seeds related to opium?

Yes, they come from the same plant, but culinary poppy seeds have very low levels of opiates and are safe for consumption.

Q. How are poppy seeds used in cooking?

They are used in baking, sprinkled on bread, added to curries, and used in various desserts.

Q. Can poppy seeds help with digestion?

Yes, their high fiber content promotes healthy digestion.

Q. Do I need to soak poppy seeds before using them?

Soaking poppy seeds is not always required, but it can soften them, particularly when they’ll be used in baking. Also, some believe soaking the seeds helps with increasing nutrient absorption.

Q. How much poppy seeds can I consume daily?

Due to their calorie density, moderate consumption is advised.

Q. Where can I buy poppy seeds in Pakistan?

Premium quality poppy seeds are available at our online Store Hunza Mist.

Ref

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

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/poppy-seeds-health-benefits

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/poppy-seeds#nutritional-information

https://www.truemeds.in/blog/poppy-seeds-health-benefits