Poppy seed oil is extracted from the poppy seeds by cold pressing.
Cold pressing is discussed at the end of this article. In short, it means that it is free of any chemical processes and does not require any preservatives.
What is poppy seed oil good for?
Nowadays, many specialists recommend poppy seed oil, as regular consumption can prevent osteoporosis and, once it has already started, can significantly reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Several studies have already proven the positive effects of poppy seed oil on bones.
Cold-pressed poppy seed oil contains high levels of phosphorus, which plays an important role in bone formation. In combination with calcium, it provides and strengthens extremely healthy bones and teeth. It also plays a major role in building the membrane that surrounds cells. It can also regulate the creation and function of proteins. Phosphorus compounds contain energy, which is very important for cell function.
What else is poppy seed oil good for?
It is also rich in vitamin E, iron and magnesium. Iron can prevent the development of anaemia. It can also help reduce the ageing process. Consumption of poppy seed oil is also recommended for people with cardiovascular disease and hypertension. It can also normalize blood cholesterol levels. Since poppy seed oil has a favourable fatty acid composition, it reduces the risk of thrombosis and embolism. It is a great support for the immune system, and many diseases can be avoided. Able to even speed up the healing of wounds and improve mental performance. It is also used as a natural sleep aid in many places, so anyone with sleep problems should try it before bedtime.
Can poppy seed oil help with constipation?
The use of poppy seed oil may also be recommended for this problem. This is because, in addition to its high fibre content, it also contains fatty acids that can help relieve constipation. Consuming excessive amounts of poppy seed oil can have a laxative effect and may cause diarrhoea. It is recommended to start with lower doses and gradually increase the amount, taking into account individual tolerance and expected effects.
Daily consumption of poppy seed oil
It is recommended that adults consume 1 tablespoon of poppy seed oil daily in the morning on an empty stomach, and children 1 teaspoon per day.
This is enough to provide your body with a lot of valuable vitamins and minerals. If, unfortunately, you already have osteoporosis, you may want to increase your daily intake by 1 tablespoon, but you should always consult your doctor. If you don’t like the taste of the oil on its own, you can mix it with a little honey and it will be much more pleasant to swallow. Regularity is also very important with poppy seed oil, as it is the only way to get the benefits.
Now let’s go into a little more detail on the much-mentioned cold pressing.
Before cold pressing, the seeds of the plant are first well cleaned and then dried, but without coming into contact with any added chemicals. They are therefore placed in the press after the most natural treatment possible, so that they lose none of their valuable substances. In cold pressing, the raw materials are kept at a temperature below 40 degrees Celsius throughout, as this allows almost all the valuable nutrients and components to survive the process.
The cold pressing process is much more time-consuming than hot pressing and produces less oil. This is why cold-pressed oil is more expensive, but the difference in quality is huge. It’s worth the extra money for your health.
Cold-pressed oil can make a big difference to your health. It is not surprising that doctors and professionals do not consider cold-pressed oil as a kitchen supplement, but recommend its consumption in the morning on an empty stomach.
Harmful effects of poppy seed oil
In addition to its beneficial effects, poppy seed oil can also have negative, harmful effects in some cases.
High calorie content: poppy seed oil is high in calories and excessive consumption can contribute to higher weight and obesity if not controlled.
Excessive intake of omega-6 fatty acids: Poppy seed oil is high in omega-6 fatty acids, which is problematic if the omega-3 fatty acid ratio in the diet is inadequate. Omega-6 fatty acids can increase inflammation as they compete with omega-3 fatty acids in the body.
Allergies: Some people may be allergic to poppy seeds, and consuming poppy seed oil or applying it to the skin can cause an allergic reaction.
Triglyceride levels: Due to its high calorie content, consuming poppy seed oil can increase blood triglyceride levels, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Liver damage: Consuming large amounts of poppy seed oil can cause long-term liver damage.
Stomach upset: Some people may experience digestive problems after consuming poppy seed oil, such as heartburn or diarrhoea.
Medication interactions: Poppy seed oil intake should be considered if you are taking certain medications for omega-3 fatty acids, as poppy seed oil may affect the anticoagulants that are taken for blood clotting problems.
