*Poppy seeds are seeds of the plant Papaver somniferum, a yellowish brown opium plant.

*They are available in blue-gray and off-white varieties, which are very similar in flavor and texture. Blue-gray variety is considered ‘European’ poppy seeds, as it is found mostly in western countries, and the off-white variety is referred to as ‘Indian,’ ‘Asian’ or ‘Middle Eastern’, as they are used in the cuisines of those countries.

*They are tiny hard grains found inside the capsule after the flowers of those plants fade.

*They have a mildly sweet, nutty taste and aroma.

*They add a nutty flavor and texture to foods like breads, cakes, cookies, strudels, etc.

*Poppy seeds of culinary use have none of the alkaloids that comprise the narcotic.

*Although they can be eaten raw, lightly dry roasting them enhances the flavor and aroma.

Are they raw?

Yes and No.
*Yes, if picked fresh or if it says raw or sundried on the package.
*No, because sometimes poppy seeds at the supermarkets are roasted. Make sure you read the label.

Health Benefits

1. Poppy seeds are very good sources of polyunsaturated fats that are good for the heart.

2. They are also rich in protein and dietary fiber.

3. Very good sources of minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper and manganese, which play a very important role in proper metabolism, increasing the bone density, improving the muscle activity, etc.

4. Moderate sources of B group vitamins, vitamins C & E.

5. Poppy seeds have a lot of medicinal uses. They are used as cure for insomnia and sleeplessness, as it is a very effective relaxant.

6. They are also used to relieve symptoms of dysentery and control dehydration (1 tablespoon of poppy seeds are roasted, mixed with honey and taken twice).

7. Syrup made from western (European) poppy seeds is used as an anodyne and expectorant.

8. Syrup made from eastern (Indian, Asian) poppy seeds is used as an anodyne and narcotic.

9. The seeds are said to relieve symptoms of earache and toothache.

10. They are also used as anesthetic (should be used under medical supervision).