Which specific compounds found in the milky sap are believed to contribute to the sedative effects of wild lettuce?
Answer
Sesquiterpene lactones like lactucin
The milky sap, or lactucarium, contains a complex mixture of chemical compounds. Among these, sesquiterpene lactones, specifically lactucin and lactucopicrin, are primarily responsible for the plant's characteristic bitter taste and are believed to contribute to the mild analgesic and sedative properties often associated with the plant.
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