Investigating Anti-Obesity Potential of Papaver Somniferum Seeds in Obese Rat Model.

Obesity is a major global health issue, affecting nearly 30% of the population worldwide. Despite the prevalence of obesity, there is currently no data available on the anti-obesity and metabolic effects of Papaver somniferum. The objective of the study was to confirm the anti-obesity and metabolic effects of Papaver somniferum (poppy) seeds in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats, assessing their impact on weight reduction, lipid profile, and organ toxicity. The experiment was conducted in two phases: a 4 week poppy seed intervention and a 6 week obesity induction trial. Rats were separated into groups and given both washed or unwashed poppy seeds, HFD, and a prescription medication for weight loss. The findings demonstrated that washing poppy seeds significantly decreased weight gain and enhanced lipid profiles, particularly reducing triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). Additionally, treated groups showed a decrease in glucose levels. However, higher doses of unwashed poppy seeds caused modest liver stress, indicated by raised alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels and renal histopathology showed mild inflammation, but hematological parameters were constant. These results suggest that washed poppy seeds may have the potential to reduce obesity and enhance metabolic health without adverse harm, indicating the need for further research to explore their therapeutic potential.