Wild lettuce has been a favorite cultivatar in Austria, France, Germany and Scotland, and can be collected from the wild in Northern America. It is related to dandelion, chicory, and thistle. Opium Lettuce, is another common name for Wild Lettuce due to the milky latex substance that exudes when the stem is broken. This plant was prepared as a substitute for Opium in the 1900’s by physicians. A preparation from wild lettuce was described in the United States Dispensatory of 1898. Although the prepared latex resin from the plant is purported to have some of the same properties as opium, the effects are much more mild and not chemically related to any of the opiate drugs, or addicting.
~50 seeds per packet
WILD LETTUCE (L. Canadensis)
PLANTING & GROWING
Wild lettuce prefers full sun and rich soil. Sow seeds in spring or fall, either directly in outdoor beds or in pots. Spread the seeds thinly in rows that are 1–2 feet apart. Barely cover the seeds with soil and tamp them down. If the soil temperature rises above 75°F, the seeds may become dormant. When the seedlings start to grow, thin them so they are 6–8 inches apart. Wild Lettuce will require consistant moisture.
Wild lettuce plants need constant moisture
MEDICINAL BENEFITS
- Contains lactucin and lactucopicrin, which act on the central nervous system to produce analgesic and sedative effects.
- Natural sleep aid (Lactucarium in wild lettuce is believed to promote relaxation)
- Urinary tract support
- Restlessness
- Painful menstrual period relief
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
FLAVOR & PAIRING
bitter with a slight vegetal aftertaste. Primarily used as a remedy not with food. However, if you do plan on cooking with it, warm savory earthy naturally sweet dishes are best. Blanching and serving with savory proteins grains and buttery beans.