Papaver somniferum, commonly known as the opium poppy, is a flowering plant native to the eastern Mediterranean but now cultivated worldwide. It features blue-green, lobed leaves and large, delicate flowers in shades of white, pink, red, or purple, often with dark centers. The plant produces round seed pods that release a milky latex when cut—a substance rich in alkaloids like morphine, codeine, and thebaine, which are used in powerful pain-relieving medications. While its seeds are widely used in baking and are safe to consume, the plant’s latex has long been associated with the production of opium and heroin, making it a controlled substance in many countries. Despite its controversial role in history and drug trade, particularly during events like the Opium Wars, Papaver somniferum is also valued for its ornamental beauty and cultural significance.
Family Name: PAPAVERACEAE
Botanical Name: PAPAVER SOMNIFERUM
Common Name: POPPY SEEDS, APHIM, OPIUM POPPY, WHITE POPPY, POSTA
Part Used: SEEDS, FLOWERS
Habitat: Cultivated on large scale at altitude of 1500m – 2100m.
Uses: Seeds are used as Tonic. Milky juice from immature fruits yields opium. Ripe and dry fruits contain only small quantity of alkaloids and therefore narcotic properties are mild.
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