Wild Lettuce

At a Glance

Common name

Wild Lettuce

Scientific name

Lactuca virosa

Family

Asteraceae

Region

Europe / Mediterranean

Plant part

Leaves, Milky latex (lactucarium)

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A tall biennial with large lobed blue-green leaves clasping a hollow stem that exudes a milky latex, and a loose pyramidal cluster of small pale-yellow composite flowers; the leaves and latex are used.

Also known as: Bitter Lettuce, Lactucarium, Opium Lettuce

Historical Background

Wild lettuce has been a European and Mediterranean folk sedative for centuries, its milky latex ('lactucarium') prized as 'lettuce opium' for pain and sleep. The leaves brew a mild, calming, caffeine-free cup, while the concentrated latex is far stronger and historically used cautiously.

Earliest recorded uses: European and Mediterranean traditions for centuries; a mild sedative and pain herb ('lettuce opium').

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Mild, green, slightly bitter, milky

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Wild lettuce has a tradition as a mild sedative and pain herb; preclinical work suggests sedative activity from lactucarium (lactucin). Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for insomnia, pain, anxiety, or any disease, and its concentrated latex warrants cautious, practitioner-guided use.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.