6 Health Benefits Of Poppy Seeds

Scientifically, poppy seeds are known as Papaver somniferum. They are known as ‘khus khus’ in Hindi. Besides adding flavour and crunch to food, khus khus/posto also provide some amazing health benefit.

There are numerous different varieties of poppy seeds. Some of them are Blue poppy seeds, white poppy seeds, and Oriental poppy seeds. Rich source of several nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, Khus khus is either used in the whole or ground forms as an ingredient in various dishes. Poppy seeds are pressed to derive poppy seed oil.

# Promotes fertility in females

1. Poppy seeds and its oil are known to boost female fertility. The poppy seed oil is known to eliminate any mucus or debris lodged in the fallopian tubes hence, clearing off the blockage thereby, boosting the chances of pregnancy.

2. The lignans content of poppy seeds is known to accelerate libido and sexual desire. Thus, poppy seeds help in enhancing sexual health.

# Treats sleeplessness

1. The high content of magnesium present in the poppy seeds is responsible for lowering cortisol levels, a stress hormone thus, decreasing stress and enhancing the duration and quality of sleep.

2. Poppy seeds help in soothing the nervous exhaustion.

3. Consumption of poppy seed regulates body metabolism, promoting sleep, and treating sleep disturbances.

# Improve brain health

1. Poppy seeds are rich in essential nutrients such as iron, copper, and calcium. These minerals help in controlling neurotransmitters and improve brain function.

2. The iron content of poppy seeds leads to enhanced cognitive performance and reduction in cognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

# Promotes eye health

The antioxidant and zinc content of Khus Khus aids in enhancing vision and protects against serious eye diseases such as Macular Degeneration.

# Improves digestion

1. The dietary fibre present in the poppy seeds is effective in improving digestion and in accelerating the absorption of nutrients from the food.

2. Fibre also stimulates the contractions of smooth muscles which forces the food through the stomach thus, treats constipation.

# Boosts bone health

1. Khus Khus is a rich source of calcium, zinc, and copper. These minerals enhance the bone mineral density, strengthen the bone, and prevent them from breaking.

2. The manganese content of khus khus aids in collagen production in the bones, improves the overall bone health, and protects the bone damage.