Lactucopicrin

PhytochemicalSesquiterpene lactoneBest before bed

What is it

Lactucopicrin is a sesquiterpene lactone found in lettuce (Lactuca species) and wild lettuce (Lactuca virosa). It is one of the compounds responsible for the bitter taste and reputed mild sedative properties of wild lettuce 'lactucarium'.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Sedation / pain (traditional, preclinical)

Mixed Evidence

Animal evidence supports sedative effects; human clinical data is essentially absent.

How it works

Lactucopicrin and the related compound lactucin are bitter sesquiterpene lactones with reported analgesic and mild sedative activity in animal models. In one study, lactucopicrin showed acetylcholinesterase inhibition in vitro. Wild lettuce extracts have historically been used as an opioid-like 'natural sedative' in folk medicine, though human clinical evidence is essentially absent.

Dosage

No established dose. Wild lettuce supplements vary widely and are typically used at 0.5-1 g of dried herb in teas or as tincture drops.

When and how to take it

If used for sleep support, taken in the evening.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Wild lettuce extract (contains lactucopicrin)

Tinctures and teas of Lactuca virosa.

Variable.

Safety

Low acute toxicity in animal models. Larger amounts may cause anticholinergic effects, sedation, or mydriasis (dilated pupils). Sesquiterpene lactones can cause contact dermatitis and allergy in Asteraceae-sensitive individuals.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding, glaucoma, urinary obstruction, and in known Asteraceae allergy. Avoid with sedatives or before driving.

Interactions

May potentiate sedatives (alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids) and anticholinergic medications.

Food sources

Wild lettuce (L. virosa)

Amount
as tea or tincture
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is wild lettuce a natural opioid?⌄

It is not an opioid, despite folk reputation. Effects are mild and not well documented.

Is lactucopicrin safe?⌄

Moderate traditional use appears safe; high doses can cause anticholinergic effects.

References

Lactucopicrin on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Lactucopicrin (PubChem CID 174863) — PubChem link

Lactucopicrin on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Lactucopicrin (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.