Lactuca serriola—better known as wild lettuce or prickly lettuce—is a tall, weedy-looking plant that most people pass by without a second thought.
But throughout history, this wild herb has been valued for its striking impact on both body and mind. While it bears a resemblance to the lettuce we eat at the dinner table, its true strength lies in its bitter sap and natural sedative compounds. Below are 30 fascinating benefits of this underrated plant.
30 Benefits of Wild Lettuce
• Natural Pain Reliever – Contains lactucopicrin, a compound known to ease pain.
• Gentle Sedative – Calms the nervous system naturally.
• Supports Better Sleep – Helpful for mild insomnia and restless nights.
• Reduces Anxiety – Soothes nerves and helps quiet racing thoughts.
• Muscle Relaxant – Eases muscle tightness without harsh effects.
• Respiratory Support – Traditionally used to ease coughs and clear phlegm.
• Relief from Menstrual Cramps – Alleviates mild period pain.
• Anti-Inflammatory – Helps calm swelling in joints and tissues.
• Subtle Mood Boost – May lift spirits in small, careful doses.
• Settles Restlessness – Promotes calm in times of agitation.
• Digestive Helper – Bitter compounds stimulate healthy digestion.
• Supports Detoxification – Historically used to aid liver cleansing.
• Helps with Headaches – Especially soothing for tension-related pain.
• Improves Mental Clarity – Enhances focus when taken in small amounts.
• Aids with Night Terrors – Traditionally used for disturbing dreams.
• Rich in Antioxidants – Offers protective plant-based compounds.
• Eases Nerve Pain – Helpful for mild neuropathic discomfort.
• Balances Mood Swings – Stabilizes emotional ups and downs.
• May Ease ADHD Symptoms – Calms the mind, improving focus.
• Anti-Spasmodic – Relieves spasms, twitches, or cramping.
• Lifts Mild Depression – Gently encourages a more positive mood.
• Relieves Stress Tension – Loosens muscles tightened by stress.
• Soothes Stomach Upset – Gentle on digestion and discomfort.
• Mild Diuretic – Encourages healthy fluid release.
• Supports Quitting Smoking – Sometimes used to ease nicotine withdrawal.
• Traditional Aphrodisiac – Believed to enhance desire.
• Relieves Itching – The milky sap can soothe mild skin irritation.
• Eases Joint Stiffness – May bring comfort to sore joints.
• Helps with Migraines – Calms the nervous system during flare-ups.
• Encourages Natural Sleep Cycles – Promotes balance in circadian rhythms.
How to Use Wild Lettuce at Home
Because Lactuca serriola is bitter and strong, it should be prepared with care. Here are two simple ways to use it:
1. Fresh or Dried Form
• Harvest leaves and stems in spring or early summer, before the plant blooms.
• Wear gloves to avoid irritation from the prickles.
• Wash thoroughly in cool water to remove debris.
• Dry the leaves in a shaded, airy spot until crisp.
2. Calming Wild Lettuce Tea
Ingredients:
• 1–2 teaspoons dried Lactuca serriola leaves
• 1 cup hot (not boiling) water
Instructions:
1. Place dried leaves in a tea infuser or directly in a cup.
2. Pour hot water over them and steep for 10–15 minutes.
3. Strain and sip slowly. Start with one cup per day to gauge how your body responds.