Opium: Origin, effects & risks at a glance

A definition and introduction

Opium is a natural product obtained from the milky sap of the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). The sap is extracted from the immature seed pods of the plant and then dried, resulting in a brown, resinous substance. This substance contains a variety of alkaloids, including morphine and codeine, which are known for their powerful effects on the central nervous system.

For thousands of years, opium has been used as both a remedy and an intoxicant. In ancient times, it was considered an effective remedy for pain, insomnia and coughs. At the same time, it is also associated with addiction and abuse, which makes its use controversial to this day.

Although the term "opium" often has negative connotations, it still plays an important role in modern medicine today - especially as a basis for strong painkillers. The versatility and effect of this substance make it one of the best-known natural medicines in history.

Origin and meaning of the opium poppy:

The opium plant

The basis for opium is the opium poppy, a fascinating plant with the scientific name Papaver somniferum. It thrives mainly in warm and temperate climate zones. Important cultivation areas include Afghanistan, Myanmar and Laos, which are often referred to as the "Golden Triangle". But opium poppies are also legally cultivated for medicinal purposes in countries such as India and Turkey.

The plant has an impressive appearance: its large, colourful flowers not only attract attention, but are also the source of the valuable milky sap. To obtain opium, the unripe seed capsules are scarified and the juice that emerges is collected and dried until it reaches its typical brown, viscous consistency.

Interestingly, opium poppy is not only important in the production of opium. Its seeds, which contain no alkaloids, are used in the kitchen - for example in baked goods such as poppy seed rolls or as a spice. The plant thus demonstrates how versatile and rich in contrast it is: it provides both useful foodstuffs and a basis for potent active ingredients.

The history of opium: A substance through the centuries

Opium has a long and eventful history spanning thousands of years. Its uses range from medicinal applications to social conflicts and political tensions. Over time, opium has played various roles that have shaped its importance in the world:

Antiquity: over 4,000 years ago, the Sumerians were already using opium, which they referred to as the "plant of joy". It was also valued as a painkiller and sleep aid in Egypt and Greece.
Middle Ages: Arab scholars such as Avicenna described the medicinal benefits of opium and spread this knowledge in Europe.
Modern times: In the 17th and 18th centuries, opium became a coveted commodity through international trade, especially in China, where it fuelled the Opium Wars between Britain and China.
Modernity: Today, opium is mainly used as a base for pharmaceutical products such as morphine and codeine, while at the same time being strictly controlled due to its addictive potential.

These historical turning points show that opium is far more than just an intoxicant; it is a substance that has influenced medical, cultural and political developments in equal measure.

Influence on body and mind

Opium-effects

Opium unfolds its effect primarily through the alkaloids it contains, such as morphine, codeine and papaverine. These substances have a direct effect on the central nervous system and influence both physical and mental perception. The effect of opium can be versatile, depending on the dose and application.

Pain relief: Opium is traditionally valued for its strong pain-relieving properties. It blocks the transmission of pain in the nervous system, which is why it often serves as the basis for modern painkillers.
Sedation: In low doses, it has a calming and relaxing effect, which made it popular as a sleeping pill in the past.
Euphoria: Many users report a state of euphoria and well-being, which also explains its high addictive potential.
Side effects: At the same time, opium can also have undesirable effects such as respiratory depression, nausea, constipation and dependence.

The effects usually set in quickly and last for several hours, depending on the dose and form of consumption. While medical applications are clearly dosed and monitored, the abuse of opium is risky and often leads to health problems or addiction.

This combination of beneficial and harmful effects makes opium an ambivalent substance whose use should always be viewed with caution.

Risks and side effects of opium: What you should know

Although opium is known for its medical benefits, it also carries significant risks. Its use can lead to physical and psychological side effects, which can be particularly problematic if consumed in an uncontrolled manner. The most common side effects include constipation, nausea, vomiting and a slowed heartbeat:

Physical effects: constipation, nausea, vomiting and a slowed heartbeat are typical side effects. In high doses, opium can cause respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening.
Mental effects: These include drowsiness, concentration problems and a strong desire to take more, which increases the risk of addiction.
Long-term effects: Regular use can lead to tolerance, meaning that higher and higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect, increasing the risk of addiction and physical decline.

Responsible use - especially in a medical context - can minimise these risks, but recreational use poses considerable dangers, which is why opium is strictly regulated in many countries.

From painkillers to dangerous drugs:

The most popular opioids

Opioids are active substances derived from opium or produced synthetically. They have a pain-relieving and calming effect, but are also viewed critically due to their addictive potential. Some of the best-known and most commonly used opioids are:

Morphine: probably the best-known natural opioid derived directly from opium, it is used primarily in pain therapy for serious illnesses such as cancer.
Codeine: A weaker-acting opioid often found in cough medicines and mild painkillers, it is less addictive than morphine but carries risks with prolonged use.
Heroin: A semi-synthetic opioid produced by the conversion of morphine, it is known for its rapid and intense effects, which often lead to severe dependence and health deterioration.
Fentanyl: A synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, it is used in medicine for extreme pain but is increasingly abused, leading to a high number of overdoses.
Oxycodone: A semi-synthetic painkiller used in the treatment of severe pain, it has come under the spotlight in the US in particular due to the opioid crisis, as it has been widely prescribed and abused. Learn more.
Tramadol: A weaker synthetic opioid used in the treatment of moderate to severe pain, it is considered less addictive but is not risk-free when taken for prolonged periods.

These opioids have an important function in medicine, but abuse of these substances often leads to addiction, health problems and social challenges. Responsible use - whether prescribed by doctors or in personal use - is crucial to minimise risks.