Poppy seed tea has several health benefits but also some potential hazards. Drinking the tea can induce a state of calm and relaxation, and in some cases can even give the sense of mild euphoria. These effects result from the chemical properties of the poppy seeds. Consuming poppy seeds in large amounts can lead to serious health complications and addiction.
Uses
You can consume poppy seed tea in small doses to achieve a sedative effects. Additionally, poppy seed tea can help alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea. However, the tea also has historically been consumed for its psychedelic effects. In fact, both Eastern and Western literature has many references to poppy seed tea's presence in opium dens, and there is a connection between opium and poppy seed tea.
Dangerous Contents
Poppy seeds contain opiates, and people have failed drug tests after consuming poppy seeds in tea form. Poppy seeds are potentially dangerous as they contain unknown and unregulated levels of morphine and codeine in the seed pods. Documented cases of deaths from morphine overdose have resulted from the unsuspecting consumption of the tea.
Removing the Opiates
It is not possible to remove all of the opiates present in poppy seeds before making the tea, but washing the seeds removes most of them. Generally, commercially available seeds are thoroughly washed and processed prior to sale. Problems can arise if you purchase seeds that were not properly washed and processed. Therefore, always purchase poppy seeds from a reputable source and wash them thoroughly prior to using them to make poppy seed tea.
Benefits
Poppy seeds and poppy seed tea do offer health benefits. The poppy seeds contain fiber, iron, thiamine, vitamin B and phosphorus, all essential to your body's health. Poppy seeds also have a very low calorie content, with approximately 13 calories per teaspoon. Additionally, poppy seed might aid in the treatment of kidney stones by absorbing calcium in your body.
References
- Bundesinstitut Fur Risikobewertung; Elevated Morphine Levels in Poppy Seeds: Risk To Health Not Ruled Out; 2006
- ABC News; A Homebrewed High? Poppy Tea Hits the Web; Dan Childs; 2006
- MayoClinic.com; Urine Drug Screening: Practical Guide for Clinicians: Karen Moeller
- Natural Standard; Bottom Line Monograph: Poppy Seed; 2011
Member Comments