Small, black, spherical seeds sprinkled liberally on warm bread. I think everyone guessed that these are the seeds of the sleeping poppy. They are the only part of the plant that is not poisonous and is used in cooking. But besides adding flavor and a beautiful appearance to baked goods, it turns out that poppy seeds have many beneficial properties for the human body.

The hypnotic poppy is most probably known to everyone for the opium that is extracted from it. That is why the name opium poppy is often found. It is an annual plant that reaches a height of about 1 meter.

It is believed that the homeland of the sleeping poppy is the Eastern Mediterranean, but nowadays it is widespread in almost all of Europe and Asia.

Poppy seeds are rich in nutrients

The seeds of the hypnotic poppy contain important trace elements, vitamins, minerals, fiber, vegetable fats and, to a lesser extent, proteins. Fibers stimulate intestinal motility and thus improve digestion and if you make your bread at home it is always good to add poppy seeds to your bread.

Of the trace elements, the content of manganese and copper is the highest, which are involved in important physiological and biochemical processes in the body. They also contain zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, calcium. Poppy oil, which is obtained most often by cold pressing the seeds, is rich in omega acids (omega-6, omega-9 and, to a lesser extent, omega-3). They contribute to maintaining cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

The poppy is poisonous except for the seeds, which are edible and useful in small quantities. However, it is important to buy poppy seeds from verified sources to avoid consuming potentially poisonous seeds contaminated at harvest or by pests.

Poppy has another strong effect, stops coughing, helps with heavy menstruation and bleeding, as it also has a hemostatic effect.

Poppy is also an analgesic, effective sedative, lowers blood pressure and it can be an auxiliary remedy for heart attack, heart failure, injuries.

It is used to treat diarrhea and bedwetting, diseases of the respiratory system such as bronchitis, pneumonia, etc. Gargling with poppy seed decoction helps with toothache, and poppy compresses are effective for bruises, swelling and abrasions.

How to apply poppy medicinally?

In folk medicine, the flowers, seeds and milky juice (acts like opium) of the poppy are used for medicinal purposes.

• Pour 1 tablespoon of dried poppy flowers with 300 ml. hot water and let it soak for 10 min. Drink 100 ml. three times a day.
• In 250 ml. Boil milk for 5 min. 1 tbsp poppy flower. Let it stand for 10-15 minutes, strain and drink 1 tbsp. three times a day, and for a good sleep - 30 minutes before going to bed, 1 tbsp.
• In 250 ml. water, dissolve 1 tablespoon of honey, then 1 tablespoon of pollen and boil for 5 minutes. Strain and drink 1 tablespoon three times a day (helps with diarrhea and profuse sweating).

Overall poppy is an extremely useful addition in the kitchen. It's greatly useful when it's used in moderation and with awareness.

I hope you to enjoy the benefits of the tender and powerful -poppy.

Shared with joy

A. A

Stob, Bulgaria