Poppy
Poppy (Papaver)
Poppy (/ˈpɒpi/; from Latin papaver) is a type of flowering plant in the family Papaveraceae. Poppies are herbaceous plants, often grown for their colorful flowers.
Etymology
The word "poppy" originates from the Old English popæg, influenced by the Old French popei and the Latin papaver. The Latin term was adopted into most western languages.
Description
Poppies have a rich history and have been used for medicinal, culinary, and ornamental purposes. They are known for their vibrant colors, which can range from red, pink, orange, yellow, to white. The plant's distinctive features include its large, solitary flowers and lobed or dissected leaves.
Medicinal Uses
Poppies have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) is cultivated for its alkaloids, which are used in the production of painkillers such as morphine and codeine. However, it's important to note that the use and cultivation of opium poppies are heavily regulated due to their potential for abuse and addiction.
Related Terms
- Papaveraceae: The family of flowering plants to which the poppy belongs.
- Opium poppy: A species of poppy that is used to produce opium.
- Morphine: A powerful painkiller derived from the opium poppy.
- Codeine: A less potent painkiller also derived from the opium poppy.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Poppy
- Wikipedia's article - Poppy
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