What group of chemicals is responsible for the analgesic power of wild lettuce latex?
Answer
Lactucarium
The analgesic and sedative capabilities attributed to wild lettuce are specifically linked to a group of chemicals contained within its milky latex. This substance is collectively identified as lactucarium. This milky exudate functions as the plant's natural defense against insects. Furthermore, lactucarium is composed of several specific alkaloids, including lactucin and lactucopicrin, which are understood to be the primary agents responsible for inducing the observed pain-relieving and calming effects in traditional use.
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