Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Poppy, particularly the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum), has a long history of traditional use for pain relief, including headaches such as tension headaches. In various traditional medical systems, preparations made from poppy seeds or the dried latex (opium) have been employed as analgesics and sedatives. Historical texts from ancient Greece, Persia, and India reference poppy-derived products being used to alleviate headache pain.

However, while the traditional use is well-documented, there is limited modern scientific evidence specifically validating the use of poppy or its derivatives for tension-type headaches. Most scientific attention has focused on the potent alkaloids derived from opium poppy, such as morphine and codeine, which are recognized analgesics for moderate to severe pain, though they are not specifically recommended for tension headaches due to risk of dependency and side effects. Non-opioid analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen, NSAIDs) are generally preferred.

Moreover, "poppy" as an unspecified term could refer to several species, and not all contain significant levels of analgesic alkaloids. Poppy seeds used in food contain negligible opioid content and are not considered effective for pain relief.

In summary, while poppy has traditional use for headache management, especially in historic pain remedies, there is little scientific evidence supporting its use for tension headaches, and its potential for harm limits contemporary recommendations.

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