Wild lettuce is said to be an herbal remedy for the following health conditions:

Asthma

Atherosclerosis

Cough

Insomnia

Joint pain

Menstrual pain

 traditionally used for its sedative and calming properties on the nervous and muscular systems.

Main use: traditional infusions or decoctions, soothing preparations under supervision.

Wild lettuce, known for its mild narcotic and calming properties, contains a latex called lactucarium, which has been used as a low-potency opium substitute.

Wild lettuce also is used to stimulate circulation. And, when applied directly to the skin, oil extracted from the seeds of wild lettuce is thought to offer sanitizing benefits.

In addition, some individuals consume wild lettuce recreationally for its potentially mind-altering effects. Supposedly similar in action to opium (and used as an opium alternative by physicians in the 19th century), wild lettuce is said to possess sedative and hypnotic properties.