Poppy (Papaver somniferum)

Other names: Papaver officinale

The poppy (Papaver somniferum), often referred to as Papaver officinale, is a plant cultivated primarily for its rich content of alkaloids, which include morphine, codeine and thebaine. This is hidden in the milky juice oozing from the immature capsules. The poppy has had a significant impact on medical science, as it forms the basis for the production of many drugs and medicines.

One of the most famous products of the poppy is opium, which is obtained by drying and processing the milky juice. Opium has strong analgesic properties and has been used in ancient civilisations as a painkiller. Opium is used in modern pharmaceutical production to make sleeping pills and pain relievers. The poppy is also the basis for the production of heroin, a very powerful narcotic whose illicit use is punished in many countries. In addition, poppy seeds are also used in the food industry - specifically its seeds, which are a popular ingredient in baked goods, various sweet dishes and healthy diets, due to their high content of healthy fats and fibre.