The oilseeds can help build a healthy and varied diet, and
why not, help you lose weight . Let's discover poppy seeds and their incredible
properties together!
In recent years, the importance of oilseeds as fundamental
elements for human nutrition has been recovered.
The healthiest diets did the rest, giving rise to a real
race for the healthiest and best known seeds.
Among the various seeds undoubtedly stand out the poppy
seeds from plants belonging to the Papaver of the Mediterranean areas,
including Papaver nigrum (black poppy), Papaver setigerum (silk poppy), Papaver
rhoeas (red poppy), Papaver somniferum ( opium poppy) and Escolzia (poppy from
which evening primrose oil is extracted).
They have come a extensive way since the ancient Romans used
them as an aphrodisiac, the Celts used them as a sedative, and the Arabs
extracted the oil for healing purposes.
While some associate poppy seeds with drugs , these seeds
are used in cooking to provide a boost of energy and beneficial properties.
Poppy seeds: Properties and benefits
The strong and aromatic smell hides a pool of active and
nourishing ingredients that positively affects general well-being.
In fact, compared to 525 Kcal per 100 grams of product, they
contain fats, carbohydrates, proteins and fibers.
Much of the properties of poppy seeds is attributable to
polyunsaturated fatty acids (Omega 6) which can ensure health and well-being if
accompanied by the intake of Omega 3 fatty acids (eg nuts or fish).
The high proportion of B vitamins, vitamin C and also
vitamin E and the mix of minerals (calcium, selenium, phosphorus, potassium,
magnesium, iron and copper) should not be underestimated.
• Calming -
Oilseeds can be included in the diet to calm or quell anxious states or
insomnia thanks to papaverine and mildly opiate substances.
• Anticolesterolemic
- The mix of phytosterols, linoleic acid and oleic acid acts against bad
cholesterol and avoids cardiovascular complications.
• Antioxidant
- The high concentration of vitamin C and manganese together develop an
antioxidant action designed to limit the damage of free radicals.
• Bones -
Calcium supports the health and functionality of bones, limiting the appearance
of various problems in old age or particular conditions such as menopause.
• Anemias -
The percentage of iron present in these oil seeds helps those who suffer from
light anemias and need blood oxygenation.
• Nervous
system - The complex of mineral salts present supports the functionality of the
nervous system and improves concentration.
• Intestine
- The amount of fiber present is sufficient to stimulate intestinal motility
and the proper functioning of the intestine.
Poppy seeds in the kitchen
The recipes with poppy seeds have conquered the local
cuisine with new preparations and baked goods, from the poppy seed cake to the
apple strudel to salads, bread and biscuits.
The poppy seeds are widely used in Asian cuisine, and in
particular in the preparation of curry ( poppy seeds , turmeric, pepper and
cumin).
These oil seeds can be added to fruit and vegetable-based
detox smoothies for a thicker, more delicious drink.
Poppy seeds: where to find them
The poppy seeds can be purchased in the best stocked
supermarkets, herbalists and health food stores, as well as in e-commerce.
In any case, we should not look only at the quantity of
poppy seeds and the price as the purchase of small quantities avoids the
deterioration and loss of their properties.
After using poppy seeds in various recipes , therefore, they
must be stored in airtight glass jars and stowed in a dry place away from heat.
Contraindications
The use of poppy seeds in a certain daily quantity does not
reserve particular contraindications, even if the overdose could lead to
allergic reactions in predisposed subjects.
