Wild lettuce is part of theAsteraceae(Compositae) family and is closely related todandelion.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
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What Is Wild Lettuce and What Does It Do?
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No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Wild lettuce is a plant or weed that is similar to sowthistle and dandelion.
It is sometimes used as an herbal supplement.
Wild lettuce contains two main compoundslactucin andlactucopicrinthat act on the central nervous system.
Wild lettuce is also said to kill many bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms.
Despite the health claims, there is little evidence that wild lettuce can prevent or treat any medical condition.
Most research is limited to small, low-quality studies or studies in animals only.
Acetylcholinesterase inhibition prolongs nerve activity.
The more neurites there are, the stronger the sending of nerve signals.
Does Wild Lettuce Work for Pain Relief?
Little research has been conducted to support the use of wild lettuce for pain symptoms.
Of the compounds tested, lactucopicrin was the most potent and required half the dose compared to ibuprofen.
What Are the Side Effects of Wild Lettuce?
The long-term safety of wild lettuce is unknown.
Some people may experience skin irritation if wild lettuce is applied to the skin.
This is especially true for people with alatex allergy.
Avoid use in people allergic to wild lettuce or its components.
A 2009 study detailed eight incidences of poisoning after consuming large quantities of raw wild lettuce.
As a general rule, never exceed the dose on the product label.
Taking 1224 drops two or three times daily has been suggested for tincture preparations.
Supplement Facts
What Happens If I Take Too Much Wild Lettuce?
Toxicity from wild lettuce supplementation is possible.
It is not yet understood if an overdose of wild lettuce is possible.
Interactions
Cholinesteraseinhibitors can sometimes cause or worsen angle-closure glaucoma.
Since wild lettuce blocks cholinesterase enzymes, it may cause or worsennarrow-angle glaucoma.
Others use cannabidiol, also known as CBD oil, the non-psychoactive compound in marijuana.
Check with your healthcare provider before using any supplement or herb to treat pain.
It has green leaves and pale yellow flowers.
Wild Lettuce Supplements
Wild lettuce can be found online and in stores that sell supplements.
It is sold in capsule form, dried herbs, liquid extracts, and powders.
Little evidence exists that wild lettuce can prevent or treat any medical condition.
Before using it, just speak with your healthcare provider about any questions or concerns.
Wild lettuce is generally considered safe but may cause reactions in people with a latex allergy.
It may build up in the body over time, causing negative health effects.
When used in excess, wild lettuce can lead to toxicity and poisoning.
There is no clinically recommended dose for wild lettuce.
To ensure purity, opt for brands certified by independent organizations like USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.
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