White poppy (papaver somniferous) is a species of flowering plant in the family Papaveraceae, probably originated in the eastern Mediterranean. It is a decorative plant that bears large beautiful flowers and spherical capsules containing small seeds. The poppy is cultivated since ancient times, mainly for its opium and seeds. The acient Minoans used opium (dried latex that is extracted from the immature seed capsules) to treat asthma, stomach problems and bad eyesight. The poppy seeds contain very low level of opiates that are not dangerous or harmful for health, on the contrary they offer some beneficial effects – calm nervous system, ease irritability and work as a painkiller. The poppy seeds are used in bakery products as fillings of traditional pastries and cakes, in deserts or on top of dishes.
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