ABSTRACT
There is historical evidence that poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) has been utilized and cultivated since prehistoric times (Tétényi 1997). The narcotic properties of the plant and the nutritive values of the seeds were recognized by Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans. Hippocrates (460-377 BC) was one of the ’rst to mention the medical application of the poppy and its preparations. The utilization of poppy was introduced into the Roman provinces, where its nutritive value was admitted, too. After the Roman period, the cultivation of the plant spread in both Europe and Asia. However, great differences arose in the pro’le of the production: the opium became the main product in the East and the seed and the seed oil in Europe.
