Health Benefits of Poppy Seeds or Khus Khus

Benefits of Poppy Seeds or Khus Khus

Benefits of Poppy Seeds or Khus Khus

In Hindi Poppy Seeds are known as khus khus. They are nutty oilseeds obtained from poppy plant. They are staple condiment found in Indian kitchens. The flowering plant is cultivated widely across South eastern Europe, Eastern and Southern Asia.

Botanical name of poppy is Papaver Somniferum. It has culinary applications and health benefits for ailments including heart problems, digestion, hair, skin issues, insomnia, diabetes, bone disorder and neural problems.

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

Varieties of Poppy Seeds or Khus Khus

There are 3 main varieties of poppy seeds available.

·         White Poppy seeds also known as Asian or Indian Poppy Seeds and are used in cuisines.

·         Blue poppy seeds are also known as European poppy seeds. They are used in bread and other confectionery items.

·         Oriental poppy seeds also known as opium poppy which produces opium. It has commercial applications.

Benefits of Poppy Seeds or Khus Khus

Promotes Female Fertility

Poppy seeds and their oil are beneficial for boosting female fertility. A blocked fallopian tube does not allow fertilized egg to attach itself to uterine wall. Flushing fallopian tube with poppy seed oil dissolves any debris or mucus particles from fallopian tube and helps to clear blockage. Hence chances of fertility increase.

Several researches suggest that presence of lignin in poppy seeds has an aphrodisiac (substance that increases sexual desire, pleasure or behaviour) effect. It increases libido and increases sexual health.

Treats Insomnia

Poppy Seeds contains abundant amount of magnesium. Magnesium helps to reduce levels of stress hormone cortisol. Thus, reducing stress, improving quality and duration of sleep.

Add 1 teaspoon of Poppy seeds, some rock sugar (mishri) to 1 glass of milk and boil it. Drinking it before sleep helps to induce sleep and treat sleep disorders like insomnia.

Improves Cognitive Functioning

Poppy seeds are rich in iron making it a natural blood purifier. It increases red blood cell and haemoglobin count in blood.

Proper supply of oxygen and red blood cells to brain regulates production of neurotransmitters and increases cognitive functioning. Poppy seeds help to concentrate and reduce risk of diseases like dementia, Alzheimer’s.

Boosts Bone Health

Poppy seeds are rich in calcium and minerals copper and zinc. They are essential in improving bone mineral density, strengthening bones, connective tissue and preventing them from breaking. It contains manganese which helps in production of collagen in bones, protects bone from damage and enhances overall bone health.

Aids in Digestion

Poppy seeds are excellent source of fiber. They promote digestion and increase absorption of nutrients from food. It treats constipation and allows easy passage of food through alimentary canal.

Enhances Cardiovascular System

Dietary fibres in poppy seeds reduce bad cholesterol levels and increase good cholesterol. Oleic acid in poppy seeds reduces blood pressure levels. Omega-6 fatty acids present in it makes it beneficial for heart and reduces chances of heart attacks, blockages.

Increases Skin and Hair Health

Poppy seeds have high amount of linoleic acid which makes it effective in treating eczema, burns and itching. Poppy seeds are powerhouse of antioxidants and essential nutrients. So, they reduce skin inflammation, scalp infections and promote overall skin, hair health.

Apply poppy seed paste as a mask on face to treat acne, pimples and provide a clear glowing complexion.

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