Red poppy

One of the oldest medicinal plants cultivated by humankind. Its valuable properties were already being used as early as 4000 BCE. The ancient Sumerians devised a method for obtaining opium. Hippocrates also mentioned this raw material. In his time, poppy was hailed as a remedy for epileptic seizures, insomnia, and digestive troubles. Combined with hemlock, opium was used to put condemned prisoners to death.

In 1806, morphine was isolated from opium, and since then it has served as one of the most powerful pain-relieving agents. From the beginning of the 20th century, opium was regarded as a narcotic and its sale was prohibited. Opium may cause a range of adverse effects—respiratory impairment, a slowed heart rate, and bluish discoloration of the skin. It may also lead to loss of consciousness, and even death 💀.

Today, opium poppy may be cultivated exclusively for the needs of the pharmaceutical industry, while varieties with a low morphine content are used in the cosmetics and food sectors. There is no need to fear an overdose from poppy seed cake or a sweet poppy seed bun.

Opium poppy contains: opium (flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids—chiefly morphine, codeine, and papaverine), mineral salts (calcium, magnesium, manganese, potassium), vitamins (E and B-group vitamins), tocopherols, plant sterols, and fatty acids (oleic, palmitic, and linoleic).

Particular attention should be paid to the alkaloids and opioids, substances used as analgesic medicines. Opium poppy also acts as an anti-inflammatory, relaxes smooth muscles, and has calming, constipating, anti-perspirant, antiemetic, antitussive, and narcotic properties.

Poppy-based extracts are also used in cosmetics. Creams are intended for the care of sensitive skin and skin prone to broken capillaries. Soaps, masks, serums, and hair oils are also available. Poppy seed oil moisturizes, regenerates, and smooths the skin, which is why it may be used for cellulite.

Tempting with its exceptional bloom,

the poppy is known throughout the world.

From it are made forbidden substances,

as well as cakes beloved by many.