1. Botanical Name: Papaver somniferum, commonly known as Opium Poppy, is the botanical name of the plant from which the medicinal herbal extract is derived.

2. Plant Part: The medicinal herbal extract from Papaver somniferum is primarily obtained from the latex or sap of the opium poppy’s unripe seed pods.

3. Extraction Method: The extraction method commonly used for Papaver somniferum herbal extract involves incising the unripe seed pods to collect the milky latex, which is then dried to obtain opium. From opium, various alkaloids such as morphine, codeine, and thebaine are extracted through solvent extraction or chemical processes.

4. Origin: Papaver somniferum is native to the Eastern Mediterranean region but is now cultivated in various parts of the world for pharmaceutical purposes, particularly for the production of opium alkaloids.

5. Color: The color of Papaver somniferum herbal extract, such as opium or its alkaloids, varies depending on the specific compound. Opium itself is dark brown, while morphine and codeine are white to off-white crystalline powders.

Papaver somniferum herbal extract, particularly opium alkaloids like morphine and codeine, have specific pharmacological properties. Morphine is a potent analgesic and sedative, while codeine is commonly used as a milder pain reliever and cough suppressant.

Papaver somniferum herbal extract, particularly opium alkaloids, is used in the pharmaceutical industry for various purposes, including:

• Pain Management: Morphine, derived from opium, is a powerful pain reliever used in the management of moderate to severe pain, such as post-surgical pain, cancer-related pain, and acute injuries.

• Cough Suppression: Codeine, another alkaloid from opium, is used as an antitussive agent to suppress coughing, particularly in cases of non-productive cough or mild respiratory conditions.

• Sedation: Morphine and other opium-derived alkaloids have sedative effects, making them useful in anesthesia and sedation protocols for medical procedures.

• Blends Well With: Opium alkaloids from Papaver somniferum do not typically blend with other herbal extracts or ingredients in the context of medicinal use. However, in pharmaceutical formulations, they may be combined with other drugs or compounds to achieve specific therapeutic effects.
• Odor: Opium itself has a distinct and strong odor, often described as acrid and bitter. Morphine and codeine, when isolated as alkaloids, are odorless.
• Cautions: The use of Papaver somniferum herbal extract, particularly opium and its alkaloids, is strictly regulated and controlled due to their potent effects and potential for abuse. Here are some important cautions:

1. Addictive Potential: Morphine and codeine, being opioid analgesics, have a high potential for addiction and dependence. They should only be used under strict medical supervision and for legitimate medical purposes.

2. Respiratory Depression: Opioid analgesics like morphine can cause respiratory depression, especially in high doses or when combined with other respiratory depressants. Caution is required to avoid respiratory complications.

3. Withdrawal Symptoms: Prolonged use of opioids can lead to physical dependence, and sudden cessation may result in withdrawal symptoms. Tapering doses under medical guidance is necessary for discontinuation.