Our favorite seeds: harm or benefit? Harm and benefits of seeds Nutritional values ​​and healing properties of sunflower seeds.

Let's figure out what effect sunflower seeds have on our body. The benefits and harms of these golden kernels - what are they? Fragrant, tasty seeds are a favorite delicacy of adults and children. We all know that this is an affordable and well-known product that is difficult to tear yourself away from, once you start clicking them. With sunflower seeds, the conversation becomes more sincere, and watching a movie becomes more enjoyable. Their taste is unique and unlike any other, they really give an energy boost to the body and are easily digestible.

Photo of sunflower seeds:

Many of us remember how, in childhood, our mother or grandmother warned against eating seeds in large quantities, as they allegedly clog the body and can cause appendicitis. In fact, this version has no basis, because grains are not harmful (if consumed in reasonable quantities), rather, on the contrary. But the husk of the seeds, which is not digested by the body, can provoke inflammation of the appendix.

Let's look at the seeds from all sides, find out what they do for our body, what is contained in the tasty kernels.

What are the benefits of sunflower seeds?

Let's start with the advantages - they really are a source of substances that bring real benefits to our health. They contain unsaturated fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, magnesium, selenium, zinc, potassium, etc. It is noteworthy that the nutritional value of sunflower seeds is higher than that of meat and eggs. In terms of vitamin D content, they can compete with cod liver, and the seeds contain more potassium than bananas. They are a supplier of fats, carbohydrates, amino acids, as well as a valuable fat-soluble antioxidant - vitamin E, which neutralizes free radicals. This vitamin has an anti-inflammatory effect and has a wide range of positive effects on the human body.

Sunflower seeds contain fiber, which optimizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, accelerates detoxification, and reduces cholesterol levels. It has been noted that regular consumption of nucleoli improves brain activity, relieves nervous tension, and even slows down the aging process to some extent (due to the content of antioxidants and vitamins).

Sunflower seeds contain components that have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the heart and blood vessels; they are able to restore energy balance after illnesses. The acid-base balance also returns to normal (balanced) if they are eaten frequently.

Fried grains greatly increase appetite, while raw grains, on the contrary, reduce it, so they are often used as an addition to dietary dishes.

They are also good as psychological therapy: slowly peeling the grains from the shell calms the nerves. If you are quitting the bad habit of smoking, they can be an excellent distraction.

Hulled sunflowers:

The calorie content of fried sunflower seeds is quite high - 1 cup of delicious kernels contains a little more than 700 kcal. Moreover, most of the components are fats. Especially in the evening or at night, it is better not to peel them, because the extra pounds will not take long to appear.

If we take into account raw sunflower kernels, the calorie content of the product will be slightly lower (520 kcal per 100 g). When following a diet, your daily “norm” should not exceed 50 g. It is best to add sunflower grains to salads or cereals (about 20 g), then they will fully reveal their beneficial potential.

But we all know how hard it is to tear yourself away from a plate full of aromatic roasted grains. In this case, try not to consume them in large quantities too often.

Harm of sunflower seeds

Seeds are a food product. It is clear that taste and beneficial effects on the body may have a downside. First of all, it is immoderation in use.

Sunflower kernels are very tasty, so cases of overeating occur often, especially for children. If you do not limit yourself, then the habit of peeling can develop into a real addiction, and this is already harmful.

Frequently asked question: is it possible to gain weight from sunflower seeds? Of course you can, excess weight in this case will be a kind of “bonus”, plus damaged tooth enamel.

As for the negative impact on teeth, there is no exaggeration here - frequent consumption of seeds (biting the shell with teeth) leads to thinning of the enamel, changes in its color, and microtrauma of the gums. Therefore, if you really like seeds and eat them often, learn to peel the grains with your fingers!

It is important to know in what conditions the sunflower was grown, whether the seeds were dried properly after harvesting - these factors affect the quality of the product. Often, store-bought seeds are in factory packaging and contain various additives (salt, sugar). An excess of salt, as well as sugar, does not have the best effect on blood vessels, bone tissue, and the gastrointestinal tract as a whole. They often turn out to be overcooked, and after such heat treatment, most of the vitamins are lost. Also, carcinogens are formed in overcooked seeds, this is due to the fact that under the influence of high temperatures the fats and oil contained in the kernels are oxidized. I think everyone knows about the dangers of carcinogens for the human body.

It would be nice to know where the seeds were grown, because, as usual, sunflower fields are located next to the highway. This means that during the growth process, sunflowers can accumulate cadmium and lead. These are heavy metals known for their toxic effects on the human body. They have an extremely negative effect on the functions of internal organs and bones. The process of removing these metals from the body is quite long.

Harm to sunflower seeds can also be caused by accumulated chemical fertilizers that the plant absorbed during the development and ripening of the grains. There will certainly be no health benefits from nitrates and phosphorus.

Sunflower Hats:

It is extremely important to take into account all the nuances: the collection process, the technology for drying seeds, even the method of frying them. Therefore, try to purchase seeds from familiar, trusted sellers, and if the area of ​​your summer cottage allows it, then grow it yourself.

Roasted sunflower seeds are based on the quality of the product and the moderation of its use - this is the basic rule. Clean the shells thoroughly, preferably by hand, rinse the seeds well before frying, do not overcook them.

If you suffer from a stomach or duodenal ulcer, colitis or gastritis (in an acute stage), or are overweight, then it is better to avoid eating seeds.

Sunflower seeds - benefits and harm for men

Surprisingly, this common delicacy can have a positive effect on men's health. Frequent consumption of sunflower seeds optimizes sexual function and increases libido. Vitamin E is responsible for this factor, which has a positive effect on the reproductive system, as well as muscle function.

Vitamin A, which is also contained in the seeds, activates the production of sex hormones. For the best healing effect, it is recommended to consume raw or slightly dried grains, because heat treatment inhibits the biologically active components of the seeds.

What are the benefits of sunflower seeds? They are an excellent addition to the diet if a man plays sports.

Raw refined grains (when taken regularly) have a strengthening effect on the muscles. Damage to muscle or bone tissue is better and more effectively cured if you eat a handful daily or add raw grains to dishes.

Athletes are well aware that sunflower seeds contain calcium, which strengthens bones. They have a positive effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system; again, regular consumption of unroasted seeds prevents stroke and heart attack. Sterols and phospholipids prevent aging and prolong youth; they are also found in large quantities in sunflower seeds. Zinc has a preventive effect that prevents the development of adenoma.

As for the harm, the warnings here will be the same as for everyone - do not overeat if you have a tendency to quickly gain weight. If you are obese, it is generally not recommended to use them. Individual intolerance to the product is also prohibited, which can cause skin rashes, swelling of the respiratory tract or intestinal and stomach upset.

Roasted seeds eaten in large quantities can cause heartburn and gastrointestinal disturbances. Don’t forget about the basic rule – clean hands. It has been proven that most patients with hepatitis had previously consumed seeds and did not think about washing their hands, as well as the cleanliness of the product itself.

Sunflower seeds - harm and benefits for women

Eating raw seeds is also beneficial for the female body. Valuable components have a positive effect on the condition of the skin, its tone and overall appearance.

During menopause, regular consumption of unroasted seeds minimizes the frequency of hot flashes, relieves stress and nervous tension. This product cannot be called dietary, but a carefully adjusted dose of seeds, used as an additive to dishes, will only bring benefits and give the body strength while following a diet.

Dietary dishes with seeds:

Sunflower seeds - benefits and harms for women:

1. They contain a large amount of estrogens and so-called “sexuality hormones”, which have a beneficial effect on the female reproductive system.
2. Antioxidants, which are also contained in the nucleoli, improve the condition of the skin, minimize pain during menstrual periods, and slow down the aging process.
3. Phytosterols optimize the functioning of the heart and blood vessels and prevent the formation of cholesterol plaques.
4. Selenium, magnesium and zinc (minerals) prevent the occurrence of cancer, improve heart function, normalize blood pressure, strengthen bones and muscles, and are responsible for the appearance of the skin.

As for the question of whether pregnant women can eat roasted seeds, the answer will be positive. The vitamins and minerals contained in the grains have a beneficial effect on the fetus and its development. In addition, regularly consumed (in small quantities) seeds prevent the development of vitamin deficiency. Amino acids, in turn, improve the functioning of the heart and blood vessels, prevent the formation of blood clots and pressure surges. If you suffer from toxicosis, then a small amount of seeds (preferably unroasted) can improve the situation.

Are roasted sunflower seeds good for expectant mothers? Let's just say that raw or slightly dried seeds are much healthier than roasted ones! However, if your soul specifically asks for fried grains, make sure that they do not burn under any circumstances.

Moderation in consumption is a requirement that is especially important for pregnant women. Consumption of raw seeds has a beneficial effect on the condition of the placenta and blood vessels of the fetus (vitamin E), on its formation (folic acid, polyunsaturated fatty acids), on the “construction” of bone tissue in the child (vitamins A, D).

The use of this product improves lactation and relieves nervous excitement. Start with the smallest doses to make sure your child is not allergic to sunflower seeds.

Excessive consumption of seeds can cause bloating and colic in the baby. You should know that fried kernels give breast milk a bitter taste.

Can you eat seeds if you have diabetes?

This is also a fairly common question, the answer to which will also be positive - it is possible, but in small quantities. Thanks to the rich composition of vitamins and valuable elements, the seeds can even be beneficial for diabetics. As in the situations described above, it is better for diabetics to eat slightly dried kernels rather than fried ones. You should definitely pay attention to the caloric content of the product, and therefore already calculate the intake of other dishes consumed during the day.

Benefits and harms for people with diabetes:

1. They contain healthy ingredients that will only benefit those who have diabetes (fats, proteins, carbohydrates).
2. They contain a minimal amount of sugar, which is important for diabetics.
3. The most useful grains are lightly dried, rather than fried. Plus, fried kernels negatively affect the liver, which is already “attacked” in type 2 diabetes.
4. You should not buy seeds that have already been peeled! They are not only not useful, but can also cause harm to health, since sunflower kernels without shells always oxidize when exposed to light.

So in this situation, the old principle also works: “there is medicine in a spoon, poison in a cup.” Maintain moderation, then everything will be fine.

The process of roasting seeds in the oven:

White sunflower seeds - benefits and harm

In conclusion, I would like to mention an interesting variety of sunflower seeds - white sunflower seeds. This is a separate, independent natural variety that is not a product of selection. The external difference between the white representatives is their larger size, shell color (pure white or with thin black stripes), and slightly elongated shape. Roasted white seeds have a slight nutty flavor, but their shell is slightly harder than their black counterparts. Despite this, they are easier to clean; in terms of vitamin and mineral composition, they are as useful as black ones.

This variety is often called Turkish, because it is in Turkey that they have been grown for more than 200 years. The pride of the Turkish shores is what people call white seeds.

Photo of white sunflower seeds:

Like black ones, they are best consumed raw to obtain maximum nutrients, but they are also very tasty fried. This is a delicious and incredibly healthy gift of nature. Follow the “dosage” in their use, wash them well before eating and cooking. Be sure to peel, and if you purchase the product at retail outlets, carefully choose the manufacturer and do not skimp on quality.

Roasted seeds can be stored for no more than 3 months. And raw, in proper conditions - about 10-12 months. Do not buy already peeled kernels - in most cases they are no longer suitable for food, this was mentioned above.

A universal delicacy and an excellent addition to dishes are sunflower seeds, the benefits and harms of which directly depend on the growing conditions and cooking technology. Use them wisely, then they will only give you benefits and a good mood.

9 healthiest seeds and grains

The seeds are very healthy and nutritious. We are mainly attracted to larger seeds and grains, such as nuts or legumes. Of the small ones, our most popular ones are, of course, sunflower seeds. But what do we know about the rest? And what is the best way to use them to get the maximum amount of nutrients for our body.

How to best consume seeds and grains

The best way to get the most from the seeds is to consume them raw. Heat treatment leads to the formation of toxins, and vitamins, minerals and essential oils are denatured. Roasted seeds are no longer living food. No seeds in the world can withstand heat and frying without retaining their nutritional properties. It is always worth remembering that seeds should be eaten in their natural state - raw. They can be soaked, ground and crushed, especially if the seed coat is too hard for teeth.

• Choose raw and unsalted seeds.
• Avoid roasted or glazed seeds.
• Less sweeteners.

Let's look at which seeds are considered the most useful and are available with us.

1. Hemp seeds

More and more people are discovering the nutritional benefits of hemp seeds and oil. Hemp contains:

All twenty amino acids, including nine essential amino acids, that is, those that the human body does not produce
- a large number of simple proteins that increase immunity and resistance to toxins. Eating hemp seeds helps (if not cures) people suffering from diseases associated with immunodeficiency. The conclusion is supported by the fact that they were used to treat nutritional deficiencies caused by tuberculosis
- the highest concentration of essential fatty acids in the plant world, exceeding that of any nuts or seeds, including flax seeds
- ideal ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 linolenic acid - invaluable for the health of the cardiovascular and immune systems of the human body

Hemp seeds– one of the best sources of easily digestible vegetable protein. They also contain a lot of phytonutrients that support the normal condition of tissues, blood vessels, skin cells, organs and mitochondria. And finally, it is the richest source of polyunsaturated essential fatty acids.

The best way to provide the body with enough amino acid material to produce globulin is to eat foods rich in globulin proteins. Since 65% of the protein in hemp seeds is globulin, and in addition there is a certain amount of albumin, this protein is ideal for humans, since its shape is the same as blood plasma protein. Thus, consuming hemp seeds provides the body with all the necessary amino acids to maintain health, improve immunity and protect against many dangerous diseases associated with immunodeficiency.

2. Pomegranate seeds

Pomegranate seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants, so they help protect our body from the harmful effects of free radicals that cause premature aging.

Simply put, juice from pomegranate seeds increases the level of oxygen in a person's blood. Antioxidants counteract free radicals and prevent the formation of blood clots in blood vessels. This allows you to maintain free blood circulation and ensure normal access of oxygen to tissue cells.

Pomegranates are incredibly rich in polyphenols (a special form of antioxidants), which reduce the risk of cancer and heart failure. In fact, pomegranate juice, which contains tannins, anthocyanins and ellagic acid, has even higher antioxidant activity than green tea and red wine.

Pomegranates, thanks to the edible seeds enclosed in juicy “bags,” have large reserves of vitamin C and potassium (it should be noted that they are low in calories), and are also a good source of dietary fiber.

The antioxidant properties of pomegranates prevent the oxidation of low-sensitivity lipoprotein cholesterol. This essentially means protecting against thickening of blood vessel walls due to excess fat, which leads to poor circulation and blood clots.

“In experimental mice given pomegranate juice, the development of atherosclerosis was significantly (by at least 30 percent) slowed down,” says Claudio Napoli, professor of medicine and clinical pathology at the University of Naples.

The beneficial properties of pomegranate are not limited to those listed above. It promotes the restoration of arthritic cartilage, has the ability to alleviate inflammatory processes and counteract enzymes that destroy cartilage tissue.

3. Flax seeds

The dietary fiber contained in flax seeds reduces sharp fluctuations in blood lipid levels after meals and thus regulates our appetite. Scientists from the University of Copenhagen have obtained experimental data on the ability of flax seeds to suppress appetite and help reduce excess weight.

Flax has been grown for centuries and is known for its unsurpassed qualities throughout the world. Hippocrates also wrote about the use of flax to relieve stomach pain, and the French emperor Charlemagne loved this plant so much that he even passed a law requiring its use.

The main beneficial properties of flax seeds are their high content of alpha-linolenic acid, dietary fiber and lingans. One of the essential fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid prevents the formation of substances that provoke inflammatory processes and also reduces the level of reactive C protein in the blood. Thanks to the action of alpha-linolenic acid and lingans, flax blocks the development of tumors in animals and can help reduce the risk of cancer in humans.

Lingans– these are plant estrogens, elements of plant tissue that have an estrogenic effect and antioxidant properties. They help stabilize hormonal balance, relieve symptoms of PMS and menopause, and can potentially reduce the risk of breast and prostate cancer.

The fiber in flax seeds promotes healthy digestion. One tablespoon of whole seeds contains as much fiber as half a cup of oat bran. The soluble fiber in flax may reduce the risk of heart attack.

Ground flax seeds are even more beneficial than whole flax seeds. They can be ground in a coffee grinder or blender and then added to cereal, baked goods or smoothies. And regular consumption of oil or flaxseed decoction is a great help for stomach diseases.

4. Pumpkin seeds

They are the only seeds that help create an alkaline environment. Pumpkin seeds are characterized by a high protein content. 100 grams of these seeds, when taken daily, provide 54 percent of a person's protein needs.

Most of us take pills to replenish the deficiency of B vitamins, while pumpkin seeds are much more effective in this regard. They are rich in thiamine, riboflavin, niacinamide, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6 and folate.

For those who tend to feel down, pumpkin seeds are especially beneficial because they help fight depression thanks to L-tryptophan, a chemical compound that boosts our mood.

They can also prevent the formation of certain types of kidney stones by preventing the buildup of calcium oxalate.

5. Apricot seeds

Apricot kernels, like most seeds, are very nutritious. Among the beneficial substances they contain is amygdalin, also known as vitamin B-17. It kills cancer cells and thus prevents the development of cancer.

There are a great many foods rich in amygdalin, but most of them have practically disappeared from the daily diet of residents of civilized countries. People all over the world who still adhere to traditional cuisine are much less likely to get cancer, since national dishes include foods containing amygdalin.

In addition to apricot kernels, bitter almonds are rich in amygdalin (amygdalin has a bitter taste, so sweet almonds do not contain this substance, as do sweet apricot kernels). Amygdalin is also present in apple seeds, grape seeds, millet seeds, green beans, most berries, cassava and many other seeds and grains, with the exception of hybrids.

In order to prevent cancer, biochemist Ernst T. Krebs, who first isolated amygdalin in concentrated form back in the 50s of the last century, recommended using amygdalin. He states that a person who eats ten to twelve apricot kernels a day throughout his life is likely to be protected from cancer.

6. Sesame seeds

Sesame seeds are probably the oldest spice known to man. They were especially highly valued for their exceptional ability to maintain freshness and resistance to rancidity.

They are an excellent source of magnesium and copper, as well as calcium, iron, phosphorus, vitamin B1, zinc and dietary fiber. In addition to these essential nutrients, sesame seeds contain two unique ingredients: sesamin and sesamolin. Both of these compounds belong to a group of nutritional fibers called lingans. They have the ability to reduce cholesterol levels in human blood, prevent high blood pressure and increase the supply of vitamin E in animals. Sesamin is also known to protect the liver from oxidative damage.

7. Sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds are an exceptional source of vitamin E, the main fat-soluble antioxidant in the human body. Vitamin E travels throughout the body, neutralizing the effects of free radicals that can cause damage to fat-containing structures and molecules such as cell membranes, brain tissue and cholesterol.

Sunflower seeds are high in phytosterols. These are chemical compounds of plant origin, similar in structure to cholesterol. When consumed regularly in sufficient quantities, you can reduce cholesterol levels, improve the immune response and reduce the risk of certain cancers.

As already mentioned, sunflower seeds have an extremely high concentration of magnesium. Numerous studies support magnesium's ability to positively influence asthma symptoms, lower blood pressure and prevent migraine headaches, and reduce the risk of heart attack.

8. Cumin seeds

Humanity has known about the beneficial properties of cumin seeds since antiquity. This traditional seasoning has been renowned for its medicinal properties for centuries.

Cumin (or cumin) is useful for digestive tract disorders and is also a good antiseptic. The seeds are rich in iron and help maintain normal liver function.

In addition, cumin helps get rid of the symptoms of common. For sore throat, you can make a decoction of them, add a little dried ginger and take this drink to relieve discomfort.

Cumin juice can serve as an excellent tonic for the whole body in the absence of any specific diseases. It is believed that it is able to speed up general metabolic processes in the body, making metabolism more efficient.

Cumin is a powerful tool for activating the functions of the liver and kidneys, allowing you to strengthen the functioning of the immune system. Black cumin seeds have long been used to treat asthma and arthritis.

9. Grape seeds

Grape seeds are high in vitamin E, flavonoids, linoleic acid and polyphenols. Grape seed extract can prevent heart disease, sudden fluctuations in blood pressure and high cholesterol. By limiting the processes of lipid oxidation, the phenolic resins contained in them enhance platelet aggregation and help stop inflammatory processes.

According to data published in the journal Carcinogenesis, grape seed extract kills squamous cells of cancerous tumors, leaving healthy cells undamaged. And most recently, in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology, data appeared on the effectiveness of its use in reducing the infectivity of the recently discovered stomach flu virus and its modifications.
What seeds do you use in your diet?

Play sports, stick to proper nutrition and!

Kyiv, February 15 - AiF Ukraine. Psychology experts recently came to the conclusion that if a person really likes to chew seeds, then there is reason to think about his mental state. It turns out that the habit of gnawing seeds is not so harmless, it indicates hidden aggression, writes terrawoman.ua.

There is a whole direction in psychology with which you can study the relationship between a person’s addictions to a certain product and the state of his subconscious. Scientists working in this area argue that our food choices fully reflect our internal state. They came to the conclusion that an addiction to seeds indicates a person’s psychological problems, the presence of hidden aggression and the lack of expression of sincere emotions towards others. Even if outwardly such people are nice and kind, in reality there may be a lot of discontent hidden inside.

Moreover, many seed lovers are not even aware of such problems. Why do we suppress anger with the help of seeds? When we chew them, we put a lot of stress on our teeth. After all, no one simply swallows the seeds, or tries to stew them or whip them into foam. In order to free the seed from the shell, we need to crush it, bite it, from a psychological point of view, thereby showing aggression outward.

Chewing on the seeds is dangerous. But why? The reason is that the size of the grains is very small, and there is quite a lot of aggression within a person. Initially, the seeds attract you like a drug. If they are not at hand, then the person experiences so-called withdrawal symptoms. Then aggression begins to manifest itself more and more, but only where a person is expressed dissatisfaction with the seeds, laughs at the habit, or is completely forbidden to crack them. But if patience runs out, then all the hatred will completely burst out.

Seed lovers are the owners of the genies within themselves. But this is not a genie who grants wishes, but a real accumulation of negative emotions and anger. Such people can destroy everything in their path, since an ordinary person has a small hole that he sometimes opens to let off steam. Therefore, you should not think that someone sitting calmly on a bench with a bag of small grains in his hands is the most harmless and peaceful person.

And if you really want seeds, it’s better to use another method. Psychologists say that emotions should be thrown out immediately. For example, break a couple of plates or throw a pillow against the wall. And it will definitely get easier.

Something you didn't expect from your favorite treat

Finally, after much torment and serious delays along the way, the long-awaited summer is coming to Russia. Jokes about “February 135” or at least “April 69” are slowly being forgotten, the sun has reigned in the sky, and the sunflowers turned their heavy heads on thin necks towards it... Which means a new harvest of seeds is just around the corner. Let's talk about this national delicacy in more detail. After all, a glass with aromatic seeds is not only an anticipation of pleasure, but also a serious risk.

1. Do you bite seeds with your teeth? In vain! Washing the product before frying is not one of the healthy habits of most manufacturers, but the seeds are fried over low heat (or rather even dried rather than fried), so the chance of acquiring pathogenic microbes or harmful substances is very high. There are proven cases of infection with serious diseases through seeds.

2. Dentists will give another argument against chewing seeds with your teeth. Those who constantly chew this delicacy inevitably deteriorate their front teeth: tooth enamel cracks, and caries immediately penetrates into the cracks. In addition, this habit causes teeth to darken and become covered with tartar.

3. And finally, the third, decisive argument. Knowledgeable people say that grandmothers suffering from rheumatism in the Russian south have the habit of keeping their sore legs in a bowl of hot roasted sunflower seeds - it is believed that this helps to relieve discomfort. The cooled seeds, of course, go for sale.

4. Seeds, although they are part of a number of diets, are very high in calories. 100 grams of peeled seeds (a full glass) is, for a second, 520 kilocalories, the equivalent of a plate of borscht and a good cutlet. However, for the sake of fairness, we note that in terms of the number of useful microelements, sunflower seeds even surpass this lunch.

5. Despite the external dryness, seeds are an extremely fatty food, which means they are contraindicated for patients with stomach ulcers and gastritis; In addition, they can aggravate liver problems.

6. The high oil content in sunflower seeds leads to the fact that our mucous membranes are covered with a thin oil film. This has a bad effect on the vocal cords: if you destroy a glass of seeds, you will not be able to sing well or, say, give a lecture for some time. For the same reason, there is a feeling of dryness in the mouth, and you are constantly thirsty.

7. Sunflower seeds are simply a storehouse of useful substances, especially vitamins, but this also has a downside: it’s easy to overdose. Most often, mild vitamin B6 poisoning occurs; symptoms include impaired coordination of movements and tingling in the limbs.

8. Sunflower is very receptive; it perfectly absorbs everything that the earth and atmosphere give it. If the field is located next to a busy highway, you will get car “waste products” as food; if it is near a chemical plant or on the site of a former landfill, the cocktail will be even more vigorous. For some reason, this plant especially loves cadmium, which negatively affects the functioning of the human heart.

9. Eating sunflower seeds in public marks you very strongly – and not very beneficially – socially. In cities, popping sunflower seeds is considered a sign of belonging to the lower class. To complete the portrait, it is recommended to wear an abibas tracksuit (a knockoff from a well-known company), pull down a cap and squat down. There should definitely be an open bottle of beer nearby.

10. Circus clowns have a superstition: if you bite the seeds, you will make the audience pop (that is, the fees will drop)! If they see a colleague with seeds, they might beat him up.

But still, the benefits of seeds are much greater than the harm - if you maintain hygiene and moderation.

Tobacco. No, no, no anti-tobacco campaign! Let's just look at the facts about the tobacco plant.

Some parts of the plant, especially the leaves, contain anabasine and nicotine alkaloids. Both chemical compounds are toxic. By mimicking the effect of acetylcholine (somewhat similar to the effect of adrenaline), nicotine acts on the autonomic nervous system. If you eat tobacco leaves, you can die. You shouldn’t be so ironic about the phrase “a drop of nicotine kills a horse”: 50 mg of a toxic substance can lead to pulmonary failure and cause paralysis. Every person who has smoked tobacco at least once is familiar with the effects of nicotine in small doses - rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, sometimes mild nausea and dizziness. One cigarette contains about 3 mg of nicotine, so all these symptoms create a feeling of vigor rather than poisoning.

There is also nicotine in liquid form: an oily liquid of a yellowish or brown color. A teaspoon of this “oil” can kill an adult, and a drop of the substance on the skin is enough to cause poisoning of the body. It is curious that liquid nicotine is used for insect repellents, and - think about it! - for electronic cigarettes.

Belladonna, or Belladonna. This plant is also called sleepy stupor and mad berry. It is not surprising that such names did not arise out of nowhere.

Belladonna grows in Central and Southern Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. With the discovery of the New World, the berry appeared in some areas of Canada and the USA. The dangerous plant is related to tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, some types of peppers and tobacco - all of which belong to the Solanaceae family. Among the most poisonous plants in the eastern hemisphere, belladonna contains huge amounts of the alkaloid tropane in the company of other toxins.

Tropane has pharmacological properties and is even used in medicine - but under the watchful supervision of doctors. Even in ancient times, it was used as an anesthetic. The toxicity level of belladonna depends on the parts of the plant and the season. Theoretically, three to four fresh berries act as a psychoactive drug. But taking into account the individual physique and health of each individual person, the risk of death is extremely high. Belladonna berries are especially dangerous for children - most often they die from these delicious and sweet-tasting berries. Belladonna ointment was used during witch trials in the Middle Ages - in a state of frenzied excitement, they confessed to everything they were accused of. True, risky young ladies in the Middle Ages dropped belladonna extract into their eyes - this made the pupils dilate, which was considered attractive.

Voh, or hemlock, a herbaceous plant of the Apiaceae family. This plant has become firmly established in history in connection with the death of Socrates: it is believed that he committed suicide by drinking hemlock juice. Despite its family ties to the harmless carrots, celery, parsnips and coriander, don't be fooled: veh is the most poisonous plant in North America. A very small amount of cicutotoxin, the poison contained in the plant, is enough to poison a person. The poison affects the central nervous system, causing painful convulsions.

The plant is easy to recognize, especially in June and July, during the flowering period: small white flowers look like umbrellas. The most poisonous part of the plant is the root. Symptoms of poisoning can appear within 15 minutes - nervousness, dilated pupils, rapid pulse, convulsions, seizures and, ultimately, coma and death.

prayer rosary, species of the genus Abrus of the Legume family. The plant is native to Indonesia but is widely found in other places around the world. It is a climbing vine whose fruit is a pod with red and black seeds. The seeds, interestingly, are often used in maracas musical percussion instruments and decorations. The plant earned its main name - “rosary bead” - thanks to the same seeds: rosaries were made from them. This is how the plant was introduced to other countries, spreading mainly in hot regions such as Belize, Hawaii, Polynesia, Florida in the USA.

Attractive seeds are fraught with wild danger: they contain deadly poison. Just 3 mg is enough to kill a person. Fortunately, the seeds have a shell that keeps the poison inside. The shell is so strong that even if you swallow the seeds, you may not be poisoned. The problem is that the shell may be damaged. There have been cases when, when making jewelry, craftsmen accidentally pierced the seeds of a plant, and contact with the poison on the skin led to death.

Oleander, luxurious shrub, common in the subtropics. Despite the fact that it is often used in landscape design (it is too beautiful), oleander is a poisonous plant. Oleander prefers hot countries, but due to its popularity as an ornamental plant, it can be found almost anywhere. Or rather: in almost any garden.

The plant is poisonous no matter which way you approach it: all its parts are toxic. If you ingest oleander juice, symptoms of poisoning will appear instantly: first the poison affects the gastrointestinal system, then the cardiovascular and central nervous systems. Poisoning with oleander poison can cause cardiac arrest, so it is important to provide prompt medical assistance to the victim.

Datura fragrant, no less poetically called in English: Angel’s Trumpet, i.e. “angel trumpets.” Indeed, the flowers of the plant look like gramophones (and quite innocent, angelic in appearance). Thanks to its graceful flowers - white, yellow, pink, orange - fragrant dope is widespread as an ornamental plant; it can often be found in gardens, greenhouses, balconies or verandas.

Like oleander, fragrant dope is poisonous from head to toe, but the seeds and leaves are especially toxic - their entry into the human body is fraught with death. Scopolamine, hyoscyamine and other tropane alkaloids, which are rich in Datura, cause paralysis, confusion, tachycardia, hallucinations and death. True, these same alkaloids also have medicinal properties - they are often used in folk medicine. The effect of scopolamine is interesting: in powder form, it prevents the formation of new memories and blocks a person’s will, making him practically defenseless in relation to others. In other words, by spraying scolopamine powder (contained in Datura), you can turn a person into a “zombie”.

Wolfsbane, or fighter, which in English is called Queen of all Poisons - “queen of all poisons.” As you understand, such a title must be earned. 20−40 ml of aconitine, a poison contained in the plant, is fatal to humans. Aconitine is easily absorbed through the skin, so even touch can be harmful. Nausea, numbness, and burning are quickly replaced by weakness, arrhythmia, and then paralysis of the heart and respiratory system.

Aconite is common in Europe, Asia and North America. The ancient inhabitants of these territories used aconite poison for military purposes, lubricating arrowheads with it. In Alaska, whales and seals were hunted in this way.

The sill is wrinkled, plant of the Asteraceae family. Pokonnik contains the poison tremetol. A particular danger lies in the fact that the plant often ends up on the “menu” of cattle, and the poison, accordingly, ends up in both meat and milk. When settling the New World, Europeans did not know about the poisonous properties of the plant, and often died after drinking poisoned milk. They called this scourge “milk disease.” They say that it was from “milk disease” (i.e. from tremetol poisoning) that Abraham Lincoln’s mother died in 1818.

manchineel tree- one of the most poisonous trees on the planet, common in Central America and the Caribbean islands. The tree is so dangerous that sometimes it is fenced off and even accompanied by a warning sign. If some plants poison you when you touch them, then manchinella is much more cruel - you can get burns just by passing by! The decision to “wait out the rain under a manchinella” will be fatal for a frivolous person: raindrops touching the leaves of the tree damage the skin. Daredevils who set out to make a fire from a manchineel tree will be lucky if they do not go blind from its smoke.

The most bloodthirsty part of the tree is its fruit. In Spanish they are called “little apples of death”: the fruit is guaranteed to kill you if you decide to try it. The aborigines who inhabited the Caribbean islands soaked arrows in the juice of manchineel “apples”, and for particularly sophisticated torture they tied the victims to a tree - they would face a long and painful death in agony.

Cerberus- a genus of evergreen trees and shrubs, named after the monstrous dog of Greek mythology. And it’s called that for a reason. All parts of the plant contain cerberine: an extremely poisonous substance that blocks electrical impulses in the body, including heart rate. One of the representatives of the family in English is called suicide tree, i.e. “suicide tree”: because many used it to take their own lives.

The special danger of the “suicide tree” lies in its seeds. In Madagascar, until the mid-19th century, Cerberus seeds were used during witch trials: the accused had to eat the seeds, and the few survivors were declared innocent. This practice was abolished only in 1861 - by that time, almost 2% of the island’s population had died from the fruits of the “suicide tree”.