Common Name: Poppy Seed
Scientific Name: Papaver
somniferum. It belongs to the poppy family (Papaveraceae), which is part of the
order Ranunculaceae, class Angiosperms (flowering plants).
It is an annual, biennial, or short-lived perennial herbaceous
plant. It may exceed one meter in height. The flowers of its species have 4 or
6 bright, free or fused petals of almost any color, some with patterns. The
stamens form a band in the center of the flower. The ovary consists of two or
several fused carpels. Poppy seeds are rich in oil, carbohydrates, calcium, and
protein. Poppy seeds and their fixed oils may be non-narcotic when harvested
approximately twenty days after flowering. At this time of harvest, the
morphine content is completely gone.
Culinary Uses: Poppy
oil is often used as a cooking oil, salad dressing, or in products such as
margarine. Poppy seeds are used in baking and traditional dishes worldwide.
Medical uses: The
poppy seed test can be used to diagnose a condition called vesicoureteral
fistula. In this test, individuals with vesicoureteral fistula consume 35–250
grams of poppy seeds mixed with yogurt or a beverage. Their urine is then
monitored for 48 hours. If poppy seeds are detected in the urine, the person is
diagnosed with vesicoureteral fistula.
Poppy seeds can be used to treat asthma, constipation, coughs,
insomnia, and diarrhea caused by infection.
Iodized poppy seed oil is used as a source of iodine for people
with iodine deficiency. It is also used to treat headaches and insomnia. Poppy
seed oil helps in wound healing and improves digestion.
Poppy seeds are particularly rich in manganese, which helps the
body utilize amino acids, fats, and carbohydrates. They are also rich in fiber,
vegetable fats, and various other nutrients.
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