Wild Lettuce, Lactuca virosa, is a member of the Asteraceae family. The Latin name originates from Lactuta, referencing the milky sap and virosa, meaning poisonous. The emperor Augustus created an altar to the plant and erected a statue in its honour after he attributed it to his recovery from a dangerous illness. It was described by many of the historical herbalists including Grieve, Culpepper, Gerard and Lyle. It has bitter and warming energetics. Magically, Wild lettuce is associated with lunar, feminine and water magics. It is thought to also be associated with chastity and also protection, love and divination.
Wild lettuce is native across Europe and Northern Africa. It is a biennial plant that grows up to 2 metres tall with small yellow flowers and particularly likes coastal regions. it has many lookalikes so good identification is important.
The natural constituents of Wild Lettuce are:
Sesquiterpene alkaloids including lactucic acid, lactucine and lactucopicrin, also flavonoids, mannitol, phenyl amine and coumarins
This product contains dried leaves.
Suggested use: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons per mug of freshly boiled and slightly cooled water, allow to steep for 5 to 10 minutes and strain to remove herbs.
Please do remember that magical descriptions are for entertainment purposes only. Do not give herbs to children and be aware that if you are taking prescription medication, have a known medical condition or are pregnant or lactating, you should seek advice from your medical practitioner and a qualified herbalist who is a member of a professional organisation such as NIMH or CPP before taking herbs. Please do not offer herbs to other people without making them aware that they should also follow this advice.
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