Poppy Seeds – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

08/09/2017 / By Earl Garcia

Poppy seeds are commercial oil seeds native to the East Mediterranean and Asia Minor regions. The seeds have gained greater popularity in Persia and India, as well as other parts of Europe including Germany, Czech Republic, France, and Poland. The seeds are obtained from the dry fruits of the poppy plant, but does not contain the harmful substance and side effects found in it. According to an article posted on The Kitchn website, poppy seeds provide a delicate crunch in a variety of dishes, especially baked goods such as muffins and loaf cakes.

List of known nutrients

Poppy seeds are packed with essential nutrients that help promote that body’s overall health. An article on the Nutrition and You website lists the important nutrients found in poppy seeds. Likewise, an entry posted on the Nutrition Value website also enumerates other powerful compounds contained in the superfood.

Alanine
Arginine
Aspartic Acid
Beta-Sitosterol
Betaine
Calcium
Campesterol
Copper
Eicosanoic Acid
Folates
Hexadecanoic Acid
Iron
Isoleucine
Leucine
Linoleic Acid
Lysine
Magnesium
Manganese
Methionine
Niacin
Pantothenic Acid
Phenylalanine
Phosphorus
Potassium
Proline
Pyridoxine
Riboflavin
Selenium
Serine
Sodium
Thiamin
Threonine
Tryptophan
Tyrosine
Valine
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Vitamin K
Zinc

Medicinal uses for poppy seeds

Poppy seeds are notably high in iron that promotes red blood cell production and improves the body’s overall circulation. This helps prevent the onset of anemia. On the other hand, the high potassium content in poppy seeds offer protective effects against cardiovascular condition. The essential mineral acts as a vasodilator that alleviates blood vessel tension and promotes blood flow. As a result, this mitigates the risk of developing heart attacks, stroke, and atherosclerosis. The linoleic acid in poppy seeds are also touted to lower the odds of developing cardiovascular conditions.

The superfoods are also valued for their beneficial effects on the skeletal system. Poppy seeds contain an ample supply of calcium that strengthens the bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Likewise, the high calcium content in poppy seeds are known to treat nervous disorders and improve the system’s function. On the other hand, poppy seeds are an excellent source of zinc that fortifies the body’s immunity against a host of infections. Aside from this, the superfood contains analgesic properties that help ease headaches, body pains, and aches.

In addition, poppy seeds are remarkably effective in maintaining a healthy digestive system. The high fiber content in poppy seeds are found to facilitate the digestive process and address related disorders including diarrhea and constipation. Likewise, the superfoods are known to soothe pain and inflammation in the intestinal tract. Poppy seeds are also touted for their protective properties against type-2 diabetes.

Moreover, the superfood is loaded with potent antioxidants that helps protect the eyes from debilitating conditions such as macular degeneration. Furthermore, poppy seed oils are touted for their potential in cancer prevention.

Body systems supported by poppy seeds

Poppy seeds are remarkably effective in improving the body’s cardiovascular profile. Likewise, the superfood benefits the circulatory and immune systems. The nutrient-dense seeds are also beneficial to the digestive, skeletal and ocular systems.

Ways to use poppy seeds

Poppy seeds are most commonly added to based goods including breads, cookies and muffins. Likewise, the superfood can be added to a variety of salad recipes. In addition, poppy seeds can be used in various pasta, vegetable and meat dishes. Moreover, poppy seeds can be infused into different beverages and desserts such as smoothies and coolers. An article posted on the All Recipes website has curated a vast number of interesting recipes for poppy seeds.