Poppy seeds are seeds that come from the poppy, which provide incredible nutritional benefits and both healing and medicinal properties when consumed regularly.

The poppy is a wonderful plant, which has a characteristic red color and is found mainly in Eurasia and North Africa, although today it is possible to distinguish it in most countries. It is scientifically known by the name of Papaver Rhoeas, and presents highly appreciated seeds both in the kitchen and from a medicinal point of view, thanks to its incredible properties and benefits.

In fact, although many ancient cultures already used it as an ingredient in the preparation of a great diversity of recipes, such as the case of Chinese or Hindu culture, today there is no doubt that poppy seeds are one of those ingredients highly valued in the kitchen, especially for its versatility to be included in breads, cakes, cookies, soups, pasta and salads.

What are poppy seeds?

Poppy seeds come from the flower with the same name, which we find in each of the flowers. They are certainly small in size, black in color and taste very similar to walnuts.

In the kitchen, as we indicated previously, they are widely used for their versatility and flavor. Hence, they are used for a great diversity of recipes, especially cookies, sweets and cakes. They are also used in the preparation of special breads and other foods, such as soups or pasta.

The properties of poppy seeds

Nutritional wealth

Poppy seeds are extremely rich in essential nutrients, essential in a varied and balanced diet. In fact, they provide interesting amounts of:

  • Healthy fatty acids: the presence of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids stands out above all.
  • Fiber: three tablespoons of poppy seeds provide 12% of the recommended daily value of dietary fiber.
  • Vitamins: the presence of B vitamins stands out (especially B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and folic acid or B9), as well as vitamin E and C.
  • Minerals: we can mention the content of magnesium, calcium, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and copper.

Good for your cardiovascular system

Due to its content of essential fatty acids, especially omega-3 and omega-6, it is an essential food to take care of our cardiovascular system, and to ultimately maintain good cardiovascular health.

Thanks to their content in healthy fats, they are an excellent natural option when it comes to lowering high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.

Help strengthen defenses

Due to the remarkable presence of vitamin C and vitamin E, poppy seeds help to strengthen our immune system and increase defenses in a completely natural way.

Beneficial for the nervous system

Poppy seeds provide interesting benefits to enjoy a healthy and healthy nervous system, thanks to their content in certain alkaloids that help to calm the nerves, and help positively when it comes to relaxing our nervous system.

For this reason, a regular and daily consumption of poppy seeds are especially recommended in situations of stress and sleep problems, as they act as a natural sedative.

How to eat them to enjoy the benefits of poppy seeds?

Actually, there are several useful options to be able to eat poppy seeds and thus enjoy its different benefits and properties. We highlight the most useful:

  • In salads: you can, for example, add them to your salads. To do this, just add a handful of poppy seeds on top after dressing.
  • In soups and broths: it is another simple option. You just have to add a handful of these seeds on top of your soup or broth, which will give them a flavor similar to nuts.
  • In cookies and cakes: although it is obviously not the healthiest option, if you choose to make cookies or cakes at home (which are healthier) you can add an extra contribution of flavor with these seeds.
  • In yogurt: you can opt for a yogurt and a handful of poppy seeds for breakfast or a snack, or simply as a snack.
  • Alone: it is the simplest option. If you don’t want to add it to any dish, you can take 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds accompanied by a glass of water or natural fruit juice. Of course, it is necessary to chew them well.

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