The poppy, also known as the opium plant, is an ancient herbaceous plant, of which there is evidence of its cultivation since 5700 years BC near the Danube and Rhône rivers, already naturalized today in Europe, Asia, Africa and America. . Its flower can be white or pale pink and it is there where numerous brown seeds are found, which we can take advantage of for the benefit of our health.
Poppy seed properties
They do not contain alkaloids
The presence of alkaloids in the poppy plant has caused strong control in its cultivation, due to the presence of psychoactives (drugs) that exist in these plants. However, poppy seeds do not contain alkaloids so it is not necessary to limit their consumption for this reason.
Contains vitamin BIt is the main vitamin present in poppy seeds , its presence and variety in this vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B9 (folic acid) are what cause much of its health benefits.
Presence of healthy fatty acidsBoth omega-3 and omega-6 are present in poppy seeds , making it an important source of vegetable oil.
Contains fiber
By its very nature it is a rich source of fiber.
Contains minerals
Among the minerals present in poppy seeds, magnesium, manganese and calcium stand out.
Benefits of poppy seeds
Digestive benefits
Thanks to the presence of fiber, it helps avoid constipation and cleanses the digestive system.
Antioxidant properties
The presence of vitamin B3 allows the detoxification of the body and stabilizes the production of steroid hormones that play a role in sex hormones and those related to stress.
Contribution to the cardiovascular system
Its regular consumption allows for good care of the cardiovascular system, since it regulates both cholesterol and triglycerides thanks to the presence of omega 3 and omega 6.
Improves the conduction of nerve impulses
Thanks to the presence of vitamin B1, the conduction of nervous impulses improves considerably in addition to improving the sugar transformation process and oxygen metabolism. Likewise, the presence of folic acid prevents neurodegenerative diseases and improves the nervous system.
Produces energy
The presence of vitamin B favors the absorption of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, contributing to the transformation of food into energy. The presence of folic acid can also prevent fatigue and anemia.
Promotes cell regeneration
Thanks to the presence of folic acid, the regeneration of organ cells is positive, and can prevent the reproduction of harmful cells, which can prevent cancer.
Poppy seeds are easy to incorporate into your daily diet, put them in the dressing of your salads, in soups, as a decoration in cookies and cakes or add them to your cereals and yogurt. Consuming poppy seeds is having a healthy life!