Known by various names across different states of India, Khus Khus or Poppy seeds are a well-known ingredient that finds a place in numerous Indian cuisines. While they have a peculiar nutty taste, they are highly recommended when you need to add a nice aroma to any cuisine.
Different variants of Poppy seeds are readily available. From these, the popular types are:
Here are some popular benefits of Poppy seeds:
Poppy seeds play a pivotal role in boosting female fertility. They are known to remove mucus from the fallopian tubes and aid in achieving pregnancy. They also enhance sexual desire and improve sexual health by boosting the libido.
Opium Poppy is effective in inducing sleep. Known to create a calming effect, the seeds help in bringing down the stress levels. They can be consumed in the form of a tea or made into a paste and mixed with warm milk to enjoy a blessed slumber.
Being rich in copper and calcium, Poppy seeds help in improving bone health. The manganese in the seeds helps in the production of the protein collagen that protects the bones from severe damage.
Poppy seeds are a rich source of insoluble fiber and help in strengthening the digestive system and treating constipation effectively.
Since they have a cooling effect on the body, poppy seeds are known to be a great treatment for mouth ulcers. However, only limited research is known to back this ideology.
Oleic acid, an essential component in Poppy seeds, is known to reduce blood pressure levels.
The zinc and antioxidant content in Poppy seeds helps to improve vision and protects against eye diseases such as Macular Degeneration.
The potassium content in Poppy seeds helps in treating kidney stones and also prevents their re-occurrence.
Zinc is a pivotal element for thyroid glands, and thanks to their rich zinc content, Poppy seeds play a crucial role in proper thyroid functioning.
Poppy seeds occupy an integral place in a diabetic’s diet. The manganese in the seeds helps in the treatment of diabetes.
Since generations, Poppy seeds have been a tried and tested option to relieve pain. Many ancient medical practitioners have used the analgesic properties of Poppy seeds to comfort their patients from pain and discomfort. Some reports also suggest the consumption of Poppy tea, made by mixing the seeds in hot water, to reduce pain. The pain-relieving property is significantly high in the Opium variant of the Poppy seeds
Other Names: Bazr al-khashkhaash, Nu’maan AbyadPostdana, Postbeej, Ying su qiao, Poppy Seeds, Graines de pivot, Mohnsaat, Khaskhas, Khuskhus, Khashkhash, Postdana, Khasksi, Papaver somniferum Linn, Khaskhas, Tukhme Koknar, Khashkhash, Khakhasa, Khasatilah, Tukhme Khashkhash Safed, Khashkhash Safed