Benefits of Khus Khus And Its Side Effects
Last Updated: Nov 15, 2024
KhusKhus is an oilseed obtained from the poppy flower. Poppy seeds (KhusKhus) have strong anti-inflammatory ability, and thus actively used in Ayurvedic preparations for treating inflammation. This magical seed treats sleep disorders like insomnia. If insomnia occurs due to emotional issues such as anger or distress, these can also be treated with Khus Khus. It scores high on several accounts like dietary fiber, minerals (calcium and iron), vitamins, and omega-6 fatty acids. This herb has medicinal properties and thus used in bath soaps for external application.
Khus Khus
The small kidney-shaped seeds of Khus Khus are popularly known as Poppy seeds in the English language. This herb is referred by different names around the world, and it should not be confused with the Poppy cultivation done in certain countries for narcotics. In terms of the chemical composition, Poppy seed contains benzoic acid and furfuroland vetiverol that offers significant health benefits. This herb is widely used in the Indian cuisine and in preparation of Ayurvedic medicines. In its pure form, Khus Khus is used for manufacturing cosmetics and for making drinking water aromatic.
Nutritional Value of Khus Khus
High nutritional value is attached with Khus Khus. This herb is a rich source of omega-6 fatty acid, which is responsible for metabolism and growth. Protein, vitamins, minerals and dietary fibers are also present in Khus Khus which make it a valuable ingredient in cuisines. In terms of the nutritional value, c100 grams of the seed contain 18 grams of protein, 28 grams of carbohydrates, 20 grams of dietary fiber and 3 grams of sugar. The seeds, when consumed in a healthy proportion daily regulates and maintains the complete health of the body.
Nutritional facts Per 100 grams
Vitamins and Minerals
Health Benefits of Khus Khus
Heals Inflammations Quickly
Khus Khus has strong anti-inflammatory quality and hence it is extensively used in preparing medicines for treating inflammation of nerves and other body parts.. For preparing medicines natural herb or the extracts of the seeds are used.
Prevents Sleep Disorders
Khus Khus has been found effective in treating insomnia. The oil extracted from Khus Khus relaxes and soothes the tired muscles and the mind, and facilitates deep sleep. Upon continuous use of the oil, healthy sleep is restored and people lead an active and productive life.
Great Pain reliever
Improves Immunity
Zinc present in Khus Khus facilitates stronger immunity in the body. Zinc is known to build the overall strength of the body by resisting foreign bodies and building a strong metabolism.
Improved Heart’s Functions
Regular consumption of Khus Khus facilitates improved heart functioning. Presence of minerals like iron in Khus Khus is instrumental in increasing the oxygen flow in the blood. Subsequently, your heart keeps pumping blood to the different parts of the body in adequate volume.
Prevents Kidney Stones
Khus khus has oxalates that absorb excess of calcium in the blood and prevents crystallization and deposit of calcium in the kidney.
Improves Digestion
Khus Khus being rich in dietary fibers helps in digestion and prevents constipation and bloating. People suffering from digestive disorders should regularly consume Khus Khus.
Prevents Respiratory Problems
Regular consumption of Khus Khus is an effective cure for respiratory conditions like Asthma. The herb decongests the nasal passage and keeps the throat clear.
Improved Nervous System
Improves Bone Density
Due to the presence of calcium and zinc in Khus Khus, this herb strengthens the bone density and prevents fractures. People in their youth and old age should regularly consume Khus Khus in their diet for improving and sustaining bone density.
Treats Skin Allergies
Khus Khus is used in treating skin conditions like eczema. This is attributed to the fact that Khus Khus contains linolenic acid that has anti-inflammatory property and thus used in treating different types of skin conditions. Khus Khus is grounded in water or milk to for a thick paste and applied externally on the affected area for the vital elements to work optimally in healing the skin.
Used for preparing Cosmetics
Khus Khus with its several mineral and vitamins accelerates the diminishing of scars and other marks from the skin. It promotes growth of new tissues that replaces the discolored and dead tissues in the affected area. Cosmetics prepared from Khus Khus are useful for treating post-delivery stretch marks, spots left by chicken pox and repairs cracked heals.
Uses of Khus Khus
Khus Khus is widely used in three applications. Firstly, it is used as an anti-inflammatory product, especially for treating skin conditions like eczema. Khus Khus seeds are ground into a powder and made into a paste, mixing it with lime juice and then applying it local on the eczema patch. This application effectively removes itching on the skin. Secondly, Khus Khus is used as an effective moisturizer. The Khus Khus seeds are grounded into powder and mixed with honey to make into a paste. This paste is applied on the face and neck and washed with lukewarm water after 15 minutes. Doing so, makes your skin smooth and shiny. Thirdly, Khus Khus seeds are used to deal with dandruff effectively. Mix the seeds with white pepper and hung curd, and apply on the scalp for an hour, wash with lukewarm water. Regular application of this mixture will add oil to your scalp and eradicate dandruff.
Side-Effects & Allergies of Khus Khus
Moderate use of Khus Khus is effective in treating problems. Excessive use of poppy seeds leads to problems. Cases of pulmonary edema are reported, and in rare instances death occurred due to consumption of poppy seeds that were added to tea. Some side effects could be caused due to the seeds being not washed properly. Poppy seeds may affect the development of the unborn child, therefore pregnant women should not consume poppy seeds.
Origin And Cultivation of Khus Khus
Moderate use of Khus Khus is effective in treating problems. Excessive use of poppy seeds leads to problems. Cases of pulmonary edema are reported, and in rare instances death occurred due to consumption of poppy seeds that were added to tea. Some side effects could be caused due to the seeds being not washed properly. Poppy seeds may affect the development of the unborn child, therefore pregnant women should not consume poppy seeds.
References
- Özcan MM, Atalay Ç. Determination of seed and oil properties of some poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) varieties. Grasas y aceites. 2006 Jun 30;57(2):169-74. [Cited 27 June 2019]. Available from:
- Labanca F, Ovesnà J, Milella L. Papaver somniferum L. taxonomy, uses and new insight in poppy alkaloid pathways. Phytochemistry reviews. 2018 Aug 1:1-9. [Cited 27 June 2019]. Available from:
- Srinivas H, Rao MN. Studies on the proteins of poppy seed (Papaver somniferum L.). Journal of agricultural and food chemistry. 1981 Nov;29(6):1232-5. [Cited 27 June 2019]. Available from:
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