WILD LETTUCE TEA

Wild lettuce has been shown to soothe the mind and body.

Wild lettuce contains bitter lactones which give it its flavor and medicinal properties, but in an infusion the flavor is mild and more akin to green tea. The lactones responsible for its properties can be found throughout the plant. In fact there are more sesquiterpene lactones in the stems than the leaves. Our wild lettuce tea is made from the whole plant.

Wild lettuce is not the same as garden lettuce.

Garden lettuce, scientifically known as Lactuca sativa, is cousin to wild varieties of lettuce such as Lactuca virosa and Lactuca serriola. These wild species are recognized for their rich alkaloid content. Typically, L. virosa is larger than L. serriola and produces a greater amount of milky sap when harvested. The term Lactuca is derived from the Latin word for milk, which reflects the notable sap of the plant. In ancient Greek and Roman texts, it was referred to as "opium lettuce," highlighting its unique sap and its historically recognized calming effects.

How to make wild lettuce tea?

You can use wild lettuce like any other herbal tea infusion. Simply start with a tablespoon and let it steep in hot water for 5 minutes. Never use boiling water as it can damage the medicinal qualities. You can make your infusion as strong or mild as you prefer.