Other Names : Papaver somniferum, Poppy
See also : Papaver Somniferum (Homeopathy)
Special Precautions of Poppy Seeds
- Eating large quantities of poppy seeds can cause a phytobezoar which can block the bowels. But, if the seeds are consumed in moderation as an ingredient in cooked or baked foods, phytobezoar formation is very unlikely.
- Allergy (type 1 hypersensitivity) to poppy seeds is rare, but has been reported and can cause anaphylaxis.
- Although the drug opium is produced by "milking" latex from the unripe fruits ("seed pods") rather than from the seeds, all parts of the plant can contain or carry the opium alkaloids, especially morphine and codeine. This means that eating foods (e.g., muffins) that contain poppy seeds can result in a false positive for opiates in a drug test. However the results provided will not be the same for someone who uses opiates
Health Benefits and Uses of Poppy Seed
In a 100 gram amount, poppy seeds provide 525 Calories and are a rich source of thiamin, folate, and several essential minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus and zinc (table). Poppy seeds are composed of 6% water, 28% carbohydrates, 42% fat, and 21% protein.
References
- Panasoff J (2008). "Poppy seed anaphylaxis". Journal of Investigational Allergology and Clinical Immunology. 18 (3): 224–5. PMID 18564637.