Wild Lettuce

Lactuca quercina, commonly called wild lettuce, is a member of the daisy family that is related to the common garden variety of lettuce that originates from Europe.

The entire plant exudes a sap, or latex, that is applied topically. The dried herb, which contains a variety of sesquiterpene lactones and coumarins, is made into tea. Although this plant is also known as Lettuce Opium, the cultivated form of this herb lacks the narcotic agent found in related species. Historically, wild lettuce has been used topically to ward off infections and internally to ease digestive upsets and to promote a sense of relaxation and well-being.