Common Name:

Wild Lettuce

Botanical Name:

Lactuca virosa (also Lactuca canadensis, Lactuca serriola)

Short Description:

Wild Lettuce is a mild sedative and pain-relieving herb traditionally used for insomnia, restlessness, and nerve-related pain. Sometimes called "lettuce opium," it helps ease tension, spasms, and anxiety without being habit-forming.

Parts Used:

Aerial parts (especially when in flower or seed), latex-containing sap

Actions:

Sedative, analgesic, antispasmodic, nervine

Energetics:

Cooling, drying, bitter

Body Systems:

Nervous, musculoskeletal, respiratory

Spiritual/Energetic Uses:

Calms mental chatter and supports emotional release. Wild Lettuce invites deep rest and surrender, particularly useful for those who carry tension or trauma in the nervous system.

Planetary/Dosha Associations:

Planetary: Moon and Neptune
Dosha: Balances Vata and Pitta; may aggravate dry Kapha

Safety Notes:

Best used in tincture form from fresh plant. Not for use during pregnancy. Large doses may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid with sedative medications unless supervised.