Wild Lettuce (virosa) - Oregon-Grown

Wildcrafted Lactuca virosa from an Oregon harvest, part of our growing Locally Grown line of regionally sourced herbs. The same species and use as our standard Wild Lettuce offering, with the added context of locally-sourced material from a known Pacific Northwest harvest region.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Lactuca virosa

Source

Oregon-grown / wildcrafted (Pacific Northwest)

Common names

Wild Lettuce, Opium Lettuce, Bitter Lettuce

Family

Asteraceae

Studied compounds

Lactucin, lactucopicrin (sesquiterpene lactones)

Format

Cut and sifted dried herb

About the Locally Grown Line

Our Locally Grown line features herbs cultivated or wildcrafted by partner growers in the Pacific Northwest. The line provides regional context and supports local herbal supply networks. Currently includes Wormwood, Lemon Balm, Wild Lettuce, Ashwagandha, and Marigold (Calendula), with additional offerings rotating seasonally.

What is Wild Lettuce?

Lactuca virosa is a tall biennial European herbaceous plant in the same genus as garden lettuce but with a distinctly bitter milky latex. The milky latex earned the nickname "lettuce opium" historically, though the plant contains no opiate alkaloids. The active compounds are bitter sesquiterpene lactones.

How to Use Wild Lettuce

Most commonly as a tea: steep 1-2 teaspoons of cut herb per 8 oz cup in hot water for 10 minutes, then strain. Also used in tincture form and in smoking blends.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the Oregon-grown version different from regular Wild Lettuce?
Same species and use; the Oregon-grown version provides regional sourcing context.

What is the "Locally Grown" line?
A line of herbs cultivated or wildcrafted by partner growers in the Pacific Northwest.

Is Wild Lettuce related to garden lettuce?
Same genus, different species. Lactuca virosa (Wild Lettuce) and Lactuca sativa (garden lettuce) share the genus but have different chemistry.

Does it contain opiates?
No; despite the "Opium Lettuce" nickname, Wild Lettuce contains no opiate alkaloids.

What is Wild Lettuce used for?
Traditional European nervine for sleep support and calming.

How does this compare to standard Wild Lettuce stock?
Both deliver the same species; the local version may have seasonal availability fluctuations based on Oregon harvest.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.