Journal

Wild Lettuce

July 2, 2026 · Omnia Sana
Lactuca virosa
Family: Asteraceae  ·  Parts used: Aerial parts and dried latex (lactucarium)  ·  Also known as: Bitter lettuce, Opium lettuce, Lactucarium

Key actions

Analgesic (pain relief)Antitussive (cough suppressant)Anxiolytic / calmingSedative / sleep support

Traditional & clinical uses, by strength of evidence

  • Back painTraditional
  • HeadacheTraditional
  • Insomnia / sleeplessnessTraditional
  • Pain (general)Traditional
  • AnxietyTraditional
  • CoughTraditional
  • Nervous tensionTraditional
  • StressTraditional

Selected studies & references

ReviewTherapeutic potential of hypnotic herbal medicines: A comprehensive review (2024)
ReviewBiomedical analysis of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) of natural origin (2019)
ReviewSafety and efficacy of herbal sedatives in cancer care (2004)
PreclinicalLactuca L. Extract Enhances Sleep Duration Through Upregulation of Adenosine A1 Receptor and GABA-A Receptor Subunits in Pentobarbital-Injected Mice (2024)
PreclinicalEvaluation of the Anxiolytic and Anti-Epileptogenic Potential of Lactuca serriola Seed Using Pentylenetetrazol-Induced Kindling in Mice and Metabolic Profiling of Its Bioactive Extract (2022)
PreclinicalWild lettuce (Lactuca virosa) toxicity (2009)
PreclinicalAnalgesic and sedative activities of lactucin and some lactucin-like guaianolides in mice (2006)
PreclinicalAbuse of Lactuca virosa (2003)

All 14 studies in the Knowledge Finder →

Educational use only. This profile summarises traditional and scientific sources for reference. It is not medical advice and not a substitute for a qualified practitioner. Some plants carry safety cautions and drug interactions — always check before use.

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