per 100 grams
Carbohydrates 0 g
0%
Proteins 0 g
0%
Fats 100 g
100%
Water 0 g
0%
Sugar 0 ug
Fiber 0 ug

Poppyseed Oil

884 Calories per 100g

Poppyseed oil is a by-product of the poppy plant, Papaver somniferum, used primarily as an edible oil in cooking and baking, but is also gaining attention as a natural remedy with medical and cosmetic benefits. While it has a variety of uses, its defining characteristic is its nutty taste and beautiful light yellow hue. Compared to other oils, it is exceptionally light, odorless, and has a higher smoke point, making it an ideal choice for frying and cooking at higher temperatures.

What Are the Benefits of Poppyseed Oil?

Research suggests that poppyseed oil may offer some unique health benefits. While clinical trials are still forthcoming, the potential advantages of this oil include:

1. Heart health – Laboratory studies demonstrate that poppyseed oil can help reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and aid in preventing atherosclerosis, which is narrowing and hardening of the arteries. Rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6, the oil is thought to promote cardiovascular health.

2. Skin care – Poppyseed oil can act as a natural moisturizer thanks to its high concentration of linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid. It is also thought to contain antioxidants, which can help fight the signs of aging by promoting collagen production and elasticity.

3. Pain relief – Preliminary studies have reported that the oil can act as an anti-inflammatory agent to reduce pain and swelling associated with conditions such as arthritis and rheumatism.

4. Hair care – It is also rich in both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. When applied to the hair, they can penetrate the hair cuticles to provide moisture, reduce frizz and add shine.

How Is Poppyseed Oil Extracte?

Poppyseed oil is extracted through cold pressing, a process where the seeds are gently crushed in a machine and the oil is extracted without the use of chemicals or solvents. It has a very short shelf life, so it’s best stored in a cool and dry place and should be used within a few months of purchasing.

Poppyseed oil is a great option for cooking and baking due to its smoke point of around 461°F (238°C). This means that at high temperatures, the oil won’t break down and produce toxic compounds, making it a safer alternative to other oils.

What Are Some Uses for Poppyseed Oil?

The light nutty flavor and beautiful light yellow hue of poppyseed oil makes it a popular choice in many culinary recipes. It can be used as an alternative to other cooking oils, in salad dressings, cream sauces, baking, and more.

Poppyseed oil is also a great option for a skin and a hair care treatment. It can be used as a massage oil or added to bath water, and applied directly to the hair or skin. For a simple moisturizing treatment, it can be combined with essential oils such as lavender or peppermint.

Where Can You Buy Poppyseed Oil?

Poppyseed oil can be found in many natural grocery stores, online health stores, or specialized stores selling cooking oils. It’s important to look for brands that claim to be cold-pressed and 100% organic. Unrefined poppyseed oil should be light in color and have a sweet and nutty flavor.

Conclusion

Poppyseed oil is a versatile oil used in cooking and baking and begun to gain traction as a natural remedy with a variety health and cosmetic benefits. Rich in essential fatty acids, it can help reduce levels of bad cholesterol and also act as an antioxidant to promote collagen production, elasticity and reduce pain and swelling associated with arthritis and rheumatism. It can be applied directly to the hair and skin or added to the bath water, and has a smoke point of 461°F (238°C). Poppyseed oil can be found in grocery stores and online health stores, but it is important to look for brands that claim to be cold-pressed and organic.