From God’s Banquet Table
In the 17th century, opium addiction swept through China. In the 20th century, narcotic addiction has reared its ugly head from man’s production of heroin. It would seem that this lovely little flower was created by the Devil himself. Yet the alkaloids that are produced by the juices that surround the unripe seed have been a blessing to those suffering great pain.
Between 5 and 700 AD, it became widely used in treating cholera and dysentery. The natural presence of alkaloids, such as codeine acts as a painkiller when the seeds are infused with water. As a lotion, it may soothe skin and mouth disorders.
Poppy seeds that are commonly sold in supermarkets do not contain the natural alkaloids because they are lost when the seed ripens, leaving only trace amounts. Poppy seeds are excellent sprinkled on salads, bread and rolls. When crushed, they add a delicious addition to curry and are an effective thickener. The seeds can be soaked in water and taken as natural pain relief.
