Wild Lettuce (Lactuca virosa)

Contents

This product contains 80 g of dried, shredded Wild Lettuce (Lactuca virosa).

Traditional Use

Wild Lettuce has a long history in European herbal traditions. Traditionally, the dried leaves have been prepared as a herbal infusion. Historical sources describe Lactuca virosa in connection with calming and soothing herbal practices.

For a traditional-style herbal infusion, the dried plant may be steeped in hot water before being strained. The flavour is naturally bitter and can be softened with honey or another suitable sweetener.

Botanical Background

Lactuca virosa is a member of the Asteraceae family and is related to common garden lettuce. It is also known by names such as Bitter Lettuce, Great Lettuce and Opium Lettuce. The plant is native to parts of Europe and neighbouring regions and has subsequently become established in other parts of the world, including areas of North America and Australia.

Wild Lettuce is a biennial or short-lived perennial herb that can develop a tall flowering stem and characteristic yellow flower heads. When damaged, the plant produces a milky latex, which has contributed to some of its historical names and traditional reputation.

Historical Background

Wild Lettuce has been mentioned in historical herbal and medical literature for centuries. Ancient Greek and Roman writers documented the use of various lettuce species in traditional preparations, particularly in relation to their calming properties.

Later European herbal traditions continued to describe Lactuca virosa and related species as plants with soothing botanical qualities. During the period of European exploration and colonisation, the plant was introduced to additional regions around the world.

The common name “Opium Lettuce” reflects historical comparisons between the plant’s traditional effects and those attributed to opium. However, Lactuca virosa does not contain opium or recognised opioid drugs. Its natural constituents include compounds such as lactucin and lactucopicrin, which are characteristic sesquiterpene lactones found in the plant.

Botanical Constituents

The plant contains naturally occurring compounds including:

• Lactucin
• Lactucopicrin
• Other sesquiterpene lactones
• Flavonoids and additional plant constituents

The concentration of these compounds can vary depending on growing conditions, harvesting and processing.

Product Details

• Botanical name: Lactuca virosa
• Common names: Wild Lettuce, Bitter Lettuce, Great Lettuce
• Plant part: Dried aerial material
• Quantity: 80 g
• Form: Shredded

Storage

Keep the product tightly sealed in a cool, dry and dark place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Information

This product is a botanical material and not a medicinal product. Historical descriptions of Wild Lettuce should not be interpreted as established medical claims.

Information regarding the safety and pharmacological effects of concentrated Lactuca virosa preparations is limited. Avoid excessive consumption and do not combine with sedative substances or medicines without professional advice.

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, people with existing medical conditions and anyone taking prescription medication should consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.