Opium poppy
NameOpium poppy
Scientific NamePapaver somniferum
Common NamesOpium poppy, Breadseed poppy, Garden poppy
Plant FamilyPapaveraceae
Natural HabitatNative to the eastern Mediterranean and Asia Minor, it is widely cultivated globally and can be found as a garden escapee or weed in disturbed soils, fields, and waste areas in temperate climates.
Parts Usedflower,seed,fruit,whole_plant
Medicinal Actionsanalgesic,sedative
Traditional UsesTraditionally used for its potent analgesic and sedative properties to relieve severe pain, suppress coughs, and induce sleep. Historically, the latex was collected from unripe seed pods to produce opium, a powerful narcotic.
Active ConstituentsMorphine, Codeine, Thebaine, Papaverine, Noscapine
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,tincture,powder
Contraindications & WarningsEXTREMELY DANGEROUS. Highly addictive with severe risk of dependence, overdose, and respiratory depression. Illegal to cultivate or possess for opium production in many countries. Should only be used under strict medical supervision in controlled pharmaceutical preparations.
Cultivation NotesPrefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is an annual plant that readily self-seeds, growing best in temperate climates. Seeds are typically sown directly in early spring.
Raritycommon
Description
A robust annual herb characterized by its glaucous, bluish-green leaves with deeply lobed or toothed margins that clasp the stem. It produces large, showy flowers followed by distinctive spherical seed pods. The plant is known for its milky latex.
