Papaver
Papaver
Papaver (pronunciation: /pəˈpeɪvər/), commonly known as the poppy, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Papaveraceae. The genus includes several well-known ornamental and medicinal species, which are native to Eurasia, Africa, and North America.
Etymology
The term "Papaver" is derived from the Latin word 'papaver', which means 'poppy'. The word is believed to be of uncertain etymology, possibly imitative of an infant's babble, reflecting the plant's historical use as a sedative.
Species
There are several species of Papaver, including:
- Papaver rhoeas - Also known as the common poppy or corn poppy.
- Papaver somniferum - The opium poppy, used for the production of opium and poppy seeds.
- Papaver orientale - The Oriental poppy, a popular ornamental plant.
Medicinal Uses
Papaver species have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The most notable is Papaver somniferum, from which opium and its derivatives, such as morphine and codeine, are derived. These substances have powerful analgesic properties and are used in modern medicine for pain relief.
Related Terms
- Opium - A narcotic substance derived from the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum).
- Morphine - A powerful painkiller derived from opium.
- Codeine - A less potent painkiller also derived from opium.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Papaver
- Wikipedia's article - Papaver
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