What are the benefits of khas khas
Khas Khas also know as poppy seeds have been commonly used in preparing food items. It is considered as nourishing for body and brain. It is also well known for its benefits in relieving mental fatigue and abdominal pain .But do you know that this herb can be used for many other health problems. In this article we will dive deep into unlocking the numerous benefits that poppy seeds gives.
Latin Name: Semicarpus Anacardium
Vernacular Names:
- Hindi: Posth dana, khas-khas
- Bengali: Postodheri
- Tamil: Kasa Kasa
- Telugu: Nalla Mandu
- Kannada: Gasagase
- Malayalam: Kas Kas
- Marathi: Khas Khas
- Gujarati: Khush kush
- Punjabi: Khush kush
- English : Poppy seed
Sanskrit Name: Phaniphena, Nagaphena, Ahiphenak, Aphayuna Aphim
Khasa tila, Tilabheda, Khakhasa Khakhasa tila
Khas Khas Benefits & Ayurvedic Description
The plant of khas khas is 3 to 4 feet long. The flowers and fruits are red in color. The fruits contains seeds which are known as poppy seeds. The flowers on incision release a latex that is known as Ahiphen( afim).
The skin of fruit of khas khas is known as posth.
Ras ( Taste)
- Tikta (Bitter)
- Kashay ( Astringent)
Veerya ( Potency)
- Ushna (Hot)
Vipaak ( Post-digestive effect)
- Katu (Pungent)
Guna ( Qualities)
- Laghu (Lightness)
- Rooksha (Dry)
- Sookshma( Minute)
- Vyavayi (spreads to body parts very fast
- Also read Basics of Ayurveda: Learn about Vata, Pitta, Kapha
Classical Categorization
Ahiphen , the plant from which khas khas is obtained is categorised as upa visha by Dhanvantri nighantu.
Bhavprakash nighantu – Haritakyadi varga ( group)
Benefits of Khas khas
Helps in improving sleep
An excellent source Khas Khas poppy seeds help in inducing sleep and creating a calming effect, reducing stress levels. They can be consumed as tea or mixed with warm milk for a good night’s sleep.
Boost heart health
An excellent source of essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid, which helps to lower cholesterol in the body, simply add a few seeds to your food (sprinkle it on your dinner) will greatly improve your heart health and khas khas may benefits in the prevention of a heart attack or heart disease.
Brain function enchancement
Consuming poppy seeds benefits to enhance cognitive functioning by helping to improve blood circulation, providing optimal oxygen supply to the brain.
Alleivates mouth ulcers
Mouth ulcers are very painful but khus khus can help to cool the body down which in turn can alleviate mouth ulcers. Simply mix in some sugar with the khus khus seeds and place this in your mouth for instant relief of mouth ulcers.
Promotes Skin health and hair growth
Kashkhas is high in essential nutrients and antioxidants, which help reduce skin inflammations, infections and improve overall hair and skin health. The high linoleic acid content makes it an excellent treatment for burns, eczema and itching. Applying the paste of poppy seeds on the face can help treat pimples and acne while also giving you a clear and glowing complexion that will make you look beautiful. Moreover, it promotes hair growth, treats dandruff and prevents hair loss.
Advantages of Khas Khas in Ayurveda
Balya : Improves strength and Immunity .
Vrushya: Improves vigor, vitality and stamina.
Vatahar: Decreases Vata dosha and increases kapha dosha.
Opium latex benefits
Shodahana: helps in detoxification.
Grahi : absorbent useful in diarrhea ,dysentery and IBS .
Sannipata : used in chronic fever .
Chemical composition of Khas khas
Khas Khas contains
Total dietary fiber : 31 %
Insoluble fiber 31.72
Soluble fiber : 0.12 %
Fat : 38.87%
Carbs: 1.33 %
Energy Value 508 Kcal/100gms
Amino acid such as Aspartic acid, histidine Arginine, Mrconine lycine and others.
Vitamin E
Fatty acid such as linoleic acid, stearic acid, palmitic acid.
How to use Khas Khas
Khas Khas can be consumed in various forms, including:
- In food items : It is used in food items such as cakes, biscuits, cookies . In many indian states it is used to make local delicacies like in
- Maharastra it is used to make Anarasa
- Karnataka it is used to make sweets like karjije
- Part Used : seeds.
Home Remedies of Khas Khas
For Sleep problems :Mix Take 1 teaspoon of poppy seeds and add some sugar to it and eat it. This helps in getting sound sleep at night khas khas contains a compound that will help in neurotransmitters in your brain and thus improve your sleep.
For Strength and stamina : Take Khas- khas , almond seed and cuddapah almond( Chironji) . Add milk and water to it and boil till milk remains. Now add candy sugar ( mishri) and 2 teaspoon ghee to it. Consume this kheer for 1 month . This improves body strength, stamina and immunity.
In paralysis : Mix poppy seed oil and coconut oil together and apply on the affected side.
For pimples and Scars : Take 1 teaspoon of poppy seeds and soak it in curd for about 1 hour. Then make paste in mixer. Apply this paste on pimples and scars will help in vanishing these symptoms.
Varieties of Ahiphena
According to the color of the flower
1. Shwet : One which has white flowers
2. Pita : It has yellow flowers
3. Krishna :The variety with black flower
4. Citra : One which has multi coloured flowers
Varieties according to Actions
- Jarana: Digest food
- Marana: One which is fatal
- Dharan : One which maintains health
- Saran : This helps in evacuating wastes
Dosage of Ahiphena
Opium ( Purified resin): 30 to 125 mg.
Churna (Powder): 1-2 grams
Fatal dose:
Crude opium : 1 to 2 grams
Morphine: 60 to 180 mg
Heroin : 20 -30 mg.
Morphine is derived from Ahiphena ( semicarpus anicardium) and is used to provide pain relief in cancer.
Another derivative that is codein has been used to provide relief from cough. However because of its misuse as an additive it is now banned.
Cautions And Contraindications
While poppy seeds has many benefits and is generally safe, however excess consumption may cause
- Gastrointestinal Problems: Eating too many carom seeds can increase acidity in the gut. This, in turn, can lead to heartburn, diarrhea, indigestion, flatulence, and gastric ulcers.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have allergy to khas khas or if you see redness or itching on skin after consumption then discontinue taking it.
Pregnant or lactating women and those on medications should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Frequently asked question
1.Can this herb be used while taking homeopathic medicine ?
Yes. This herb does not react with homeopathic medicine.
2.Can this herb/medicine be continued while taking supplements like multivitamin, omega 3, spirulina ?
Yes .Generally this herb goes well with most dietary supplement. However if you are taking more than one product per day please consult your doctor for opinion.
3. With western/modern medicine
Seek your doctors advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicine. Some ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine.
When taking ayurvedic medicine or herb with modern medicine it is best to keep one hour gap in between both the medicine.
4. How long does poppy seeds take to start showing result ?
It depend on any existing disease, overall health, your prakriti ( genetic make up) all these factors plays a role in how quickly poppy seed work.
5.Can it be used in people with diabetes?
Yes. But always keep watch on your sugar levels. This herb can lower your blood sugar levels. Do not stop your diabetes medicine once you start taking this herb/medicine. Keep in touch with your ayurvedic doctor. They will guide you in this respect.
6.Are there any diet restriction( Pathya) while taking this seeds ?
No .There are no such restriction while taking this product. However if you have been advised with any specific diet based on disease, you should continue to follow it.
Ayurvedic medicine that contains Bhringraj
Khas-Khas (Poppy seeds ) is main ingredients in following medicines
Sarpagandha vati : It is one of the ayurvedic medicine which is used to manage high blood pressure and lack of sleep.
Yavani shadav churna: Useful in indigestion and anorexia.
Lohasav : This is very useful in anemia, liver and spleen disorder.
Conclusion
Khas khas, or poppy seeds, are more than just a flavorful addition to your favorite dishes—they’re a powerhouse of nutrition and tradition. From aiding digestion to promoting better sleep and supporting bone health, these tiny seeds have earned their place in both culinary and wellness routines. Whether you sprinkle them over salads, blend them into curries, or use them in desserts, poppy seeds offer a rich combination of taste and health benefits. As with any ingredient, moderation is key, but incorporating khas khas into your diet can be a simple and delicious step toward better well-being.
Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
This Article is written by Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari B.A.M.S, PGDCR Director of Risha’s Health And Ayurvedaa Solutions.He is having more than 20 years of experience in field of Ayurvedic medicine.
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Disclaimer :The content provided here is for informational purpose only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek medical advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concern you may have regarding a medical conditions.
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