Poppies are colorful flowers, typically with one per stem, including a number of attractive wildflower species with colorful flowers. The flower color of poppy species ranges from white, pink, yellow, orange, red, and blue; some have dark center markings. Poppy Seeds are obtained from Opium Poppy. The unripe heads contain opium but the white or grayish blue seeds do not have any narcotic properties. Poppies symbolize both sleep and death: sleep because of the opium extracted from them, and death because of their (commonly) blood-red color. White poppy seeds form part of the Indian spices. They are added for thickness, texture and to enhance the flavor to dishes. Poppy seeds are widely used in Indian, Turkish, German, Slovak, Russian, Romanian, Hungarian and Austrian cuisine. Following are the health benefits of poppies:
- Poppies are used to treat vomiting and nausea.
- Regular consumption of poppy seeds cures asthma and cough.
- Drinking a decoction of poppy seeds helps all nervous disorders.
- Consumption of a paste of poppy seeds daily cures insomnia.
- A dosage Poppy seeds paste cures diarrhea.
- A paste of poppy seeds and ghee cures abdominal pain, colic and sciatica.
- Poppy seeds paste applied over the affected area gives relief, in case of any swelling and joint pains.
- Poppy seeds are also good sources of fatty acids, especially the omega-3 fatty acids, which are required by human body to ensure good health.
- Poppy seeds are good sources of carbohydrates and thus, these are helpful in enhancing the level of energy supplied to human body for routine functions.
- The presence of linoleic acid in poppy seeds protects the body from heart attacks and other heart disorders.
- The oil made from poppy seeds is helpful in treating breast cancer, as it contains oleic acid.
- Regular application of a smooth paste of poppy seeds under the eyes cures dark circles and inflammation of the eye lids.