Botanical Overview
Papaver somniferum, commonly known as Opium poppy or Poppy, belongs to the family Papaveraceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region, Southwest Asia, Europe, and North Africa. The medicinally used parts primarily include the seed, seed capsule latex (source of opium), and seed oil. Notably, the plant is the natural source of opiate alkaloids such as morphine and codeine.
Energetics
Papaver somniferum is considered cooling in temperature and drying in moisture energetics. Its tastes are predominantly bitter and sweet, with a descending directionality. It exhibits a relaxing tonicity and primarily influences the qi aspect of the body’s systems.
Primary Actions
- Analgesic
- Antitussive
- Sedative
- Spasmolytic
- Narcotic
Indications
Western
- Severe pain
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Insomnia
- Muscle spasms
Syndromes
- Acute and chronic pain syndromes
- Cough and respiratory irritation
- Diarrheal conditions
TCM
No well-established traditional Chinese Medicine uses documented.
Ayurveda
- Severe pain
- Cough
Syndromes
- Vata disorders
- Kaphaja diseases
Unani
- Pain
- Cough
- Insomnia
Syndromes
- Sakranj (pain disorders)
- Delhi-al-nafas (respiratory ailments)
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains a range of bioactive alkaloids including morphine, codeine, thebaine, and papaverine, responsible for its analgesic, sedative, and antispasmodic effects. Additional constituents include flavonoids and essential oils.
Dosage & Preparations
- Opium tincture (Laudanum), typically 10 mg morphine equivalent per mL, used under strict medical supervision
- Poppy seed oil used as a food supplement
- Pharmaceutical preparations of isolated alkaloids (e.g., morphine, codeine)
Safety & Contraindications
Papaver somniferum preparations contain potent opioids that carry a high risk of addiction, respiratory depression, and overdose toxicity. They are contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation. Concomitant use with CNS depressants or alcohol increases risk. Medical supervision is mandatory for any therapeutic use.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary ruler: Saturn; Elemental ruler: Earth.
Selected References
- Assessment report on Papaver somniferum L., opium poppy – EMA (2017)
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants – Volume 2 Papaver somniferum (2004)
- PFAF – Papaver somniferum
- Medical Botany: Plants Affecting Human Health (2003) by Walter H. Lewis
- The Complete Herbal Tutor (2013) by Anne McIntyre