Spices

Poppy Seeds

Poppy Seeds

Poppy Seeds

Poppy Seeds, also known as Khus Khus in India, are tiny, oil-rich seeds derived from the opium poppy plant. These seeds are widely used in Indian and international cuisines for their nutty flavor, rich texture, and calming effects. Poppy seeds are highly nutritious, containing healthy fats, protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron.

Description

At Farm Ayurveda, we offer naturally sourced, sun-dried poppy seeds that are free from chemical additives. Known for their cooling and soothing properties, poppy seeds are also used in Ayurvedic remedies for sleep, digestion, and pain relief. Whether used in desserts, curries, or herbal pastes, they deliver both taste and therapeutic value.

History

Poppy seeds have been cultivated and used since ancient Mesopotamian and Egyptian civilizations. In Ayurveda and Unani medicine, they were traditionally prescribed for their sedative, digestive, and rejuvenating properties. In Indian kitchens, poppy seeds have been a staple for centuries, especially in Mughlai and Bengali cuisine, enhancing texture and taste in rich gravies and desserts. Over time, they have gained global popularity as a super seed with both culinary and medicinal uses.

Specification

Product Name Poppy Seeds
Origin India
Family Papaveraceae
Binomial name Papaver somniferum

Features & Characteristics

Color Creamy white, blue-gray, or black (depending on type)
Taste and Smell Mildly nutty flavor with earthy aroma
Quality Unpolished, naturally sun-dried, edible grade

Ingredients

Nutrients Dietary fiber, Omega-6 fatty acids, antioxidants
Minerals Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Zinc
Vitamins Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), Vitamin E
Protein ~18g per 100g
Fats ~42g per 100g (mostly healthy unsaturated fats)

Uses of Poppy Seeds

Used as thickener and flavoring in Indian curries and gravies.

Added to sweets, halwas, kheer, and pastries.

Used in spice blends and masala powders.

Ground into paste for traditional Ayurvedic and culinary recipes.

Used in herbal preparations and wellness tonics.

Benefits of Poppy Seeds

Promotes better sleep and reduces anxiety.

Supports bone health due to high calcium and zinc content.

Aids digestion and soothes gastrointestinal issues.

Helps in natural pain relief and muscle relaxation.

Nourishes hair and skin when used in masks and oils.

Boosts energy levels and improves metabolic function.

Cooling effect helps balance excess pitta in Ayurveda.