Papaver bracteatum - A summary of current knowledge

Abstract

This detailed review of the literature (112 refs.) on Papaver bracteatum, a species of poppy which may be a suitable alternative to P. somniferum as a source of raw material for the pharmaceutical industry, covers recent work in the fields of botany, genetics, cytology, biochemistry and pharmacognosy. Attention is given to the taxonomy, growth, reproduction and geographical distribution of the plant. The principal alkaloid is thebaine, a substance which is not abused but which may provide a convenient source of codeine for the drug industry. Careful control of the production of thebaine is recommended by the World Health Organization.