Opium Poppy

(Opium)
Sanskrit: अहिफेन • Botanical: Papaver somniferum Linn.

Opium (Afeem/Ahiphena) is the dried latex from unripe poppy seed capsules. Contains Morphine — the most powerful natural analgesic known. In Ayurveda, highly purified opium in minute doses was used for severe pain, intractable diarrhea, and insomnia. Now a strictly controlled substance. Poppy seeds (Khus-khus/Posta) themselves are not narcotic and are used in cooking.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Laghu, Ruksha
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Key Constituents
Morphine (9-12%), Narcotine (1.5-11%), Codeine (0.2-0.6%), Thebaine, Papaverine. Also contains Meconic acid, Lactic acid, Sulphuric acid, Meconic acid, Caoutchouc (rubber), Pectin, and other acids.
Also Known As
English: Opium, Poppy
Sanskrit: अहिफेन, अफ़ूक
Hindi: अफ़ीम, पोस्ता

What is Opium Poppy (Posta / Afeem / अफ़ीम)?

Opium (Afeem/Ahiphena) is the dried latex from unripe poppy seed capsules. Contains Morphine — the most powerful natural analgesic known. In Ayurveda, highly purified opium in minute doses was used for severe pain, intractable diarrhea, and insomnia. Now a strictly controlled substance. Poppy seeds (Khus-khus/Posta) themselves are not narcotic and are used in cooking.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vedanasthapana (analgesic — powerful pain reliever)
  • Nidrajanana (induces deep sleep)
  • Grahi (absorbent — stops diarrhea)
  • Shukra Stambhana (delays ejaculation)
  • Kasa hara (cough suppressant)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Opium Poppy by Condition

Explore how Opium Poppy is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Opium Poppy for Male Sexual Health

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.