Lactuca serriola, commonly known as wild lettuce, has been used for centuries in traditional herbal practices across Europe, Asia, and North America. Often called “prickly lettuce,” this plant is related to cultivated lettuce but has a long history in folk medicine.
While modern science is still studying many of its properties, wild lettuce continues to attract interest for its potential wellness benefits.
🌿 What Is Wild Lettuce?
Wild lettuce is a tall, leafy plant known for the milky sap it releases when cut. Historically, this sap—sometimes called lactucarium—was used in traditional remedies. Today, wild lettuce is mainly discussed in herbal and ethnobotanical contexts.