Poppy seed

Poppy Seed

Poppy seed (Papaver somniferum) is an oilseed obtained from the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). The tiny, kidney-shaped seeds have been harvested from dried seed pods by various civilizations for thousands of years.

Pronunciation

Poppy seed: /ˈpɒpi siːd/

Etymology

The term "poppy" originates from the Old English popæg, influenced by the Old French popei and the earlier Latin term papaver. The word "seed" comes from the Old English sǣd.

Description

Poppy seeds are less than a millimeter in length, and can be used whole or ground, raw or cooked. They are used in various cuisines and for producing poppy seed oil. The seeds are highly nutritious and less allergenic than many other seeds and nuts.

Culinary Uses

Poppy seeds are used in various regional cuisines. In Central Europe, poppy seed is used in sweet pastries, such as strudel and seed cake. In India, white poppy seeds are added to thicken sauces and gravies.

Health Effects

Poppy seeds are highly nutritious, being rich in essential fatty acids and are a great source of dietary fiber. However, they also contain small amounts of opium alkaloids, which can result in a positive drug test after consumption.

Related Terms

• Opium Poppy
• Papaver somniferum
• Strudel
• Seed Cake

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Poppy seed
• Wikipedia's article - Poppy seed

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