Wild Lettuce
Lactuca virosa
PLANT NAME
Wild Lettuce
COMMON NAMES
Bitter Lettuce, Opium Lettuce, Tall Lettuce
BOTANICAL NAME
Lactuca virosa
IDENTIFICATION
A tall, biennial herb that can grow up to 6 feet. It has deeply lobed, often prickly leaves. When the stem or leaves are broken, they exude a milky white sap. It produces small, pale yellow composite flowers.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Leaves and the dried milky sap (lactucarium).
CULINARY USES
The very young leaves can be eaten but quickly become exceedingly bitter and tough as the plant matures.
TRADITIONAL USES
The dried milky sap, called lactucarium, was traditionally used for its mild sedative and analgesic properties. It was historically used to promote sleep, calm restlessness, and soothe persistent coughs and mild pain.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Native to Europe but naturalized in many temperate regions. Often found as a weed in disturbed soils. The sap is harvested by cutting the upper stem and scraping off the milky latex as it dries.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Always consult your doctor. In large doses, it can cause dizziness, sweating, and auditory disturbances. Avoid use during pregnancy or if you have glaucoma or an enlarged prostate.
RELATED PLANTS
Prickly Lettuce (Lactuca serriola), Garden Lettuce (Lactuca sativa).