Papaver somniferum vs Meconopsis Regia

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Papaver somniferum

Analgesic

Meconopsis regia

Analgesic

Papaver somniferum

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Meconopsis Regia

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Source of morphine and other opioid alkaloids; seeds are edible and used culinarily; pharmaceutical significance.

Monocarpic herb of the high Himalayas used in Tibetan medicine for pain, fever, and respiratory conditions, with alkaloids distinct from opium poppy.

Active Compounds

morphine, codeine, thebaine, papaverine

meconerine, meconine, morphinane alkaloids, flavonoids

Traditional Uses

Pain management historically, Sedative use, Cough suppression

pain, fever, respiratory conditions, sedation, cough

Modern Uses

Pharmaceutical opioid source, Codeine cough treatment, Pain research

analgesic, anti-inflammatory, sedative, antitussive

Adult Dosage

Pharmaceutical controlled use only

2–4g root powder or decoction under supervision

Contraindications

Highly addictive, Controlled substance, Respiratory depression

pregnancy, children, operating machinery, opiate sensitivity

Side Effects

Addiction, Respiratory depression, Death in overdose

sedation, respiratory depression at high doses, dependency risk

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E