Wild lettuce (Lactuca virosa) is a biennial or short-lived perennial herb in the daisy family (Asteraceae) native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. It grows tall with spiny leaf margins, pale yellow flowers, and a milky white latex that has long made it notable in traditional herb lore. The leaves and latex were the parts most often referenced in older preparations.
In traditional Western herbal practice, wild lettuce was discussed in older relaxation formulas and bedtime preparations. It has historically been prepared as teas, tinctures, and extracts, although the plant is considered quite bitter and should be approached carefully.
Because several wild lettuces look similar, careful identification is important. The plant exudes a white sap when cut, and this bitter latex is one of its best-known distinguishing features.
