Ahiphena (Papaver somniferum) – Classical Ayurvedic Reference

Botanical Name: Papaver somniferum
Common Name: Ahiphena / Khaskhas (Poppy)
Family: Papaveraceae

Ayurvedic Properties

·         Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent)

·         Guna (Qualities): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)

·         Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)

·         Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu

·         Dosha Action: Pacifies Vata and Kapha; aggravates Pitta if misused

Karma (Actions)

·         Vedanasthapana – Analgesic

·         Nidrajanana – Induces sleep

·         Grahi – Absorbent (useful in diarrhea)

·         Stambhana – Arrests excessive secretions

Classical References

·         Charaka Samhita: Mentioned for its Grahi and Vedanasthapana properties; used cautiously in Atisara (diarrhea) and pain disorders

·         Sushruta Samhita: Described for pain relief and sedative action in surgical and traumatic conditions

·         Bhavaprakasha Nighantu: Included under Upavisha Dravyas (semi-toxic substances), highlighting the need for purification (Shodhana) before use

·         Raja Nighantu: Mentions its use in insomnia, diarrhea, and severe pain under strict control

Therapeutic Uses (Classical)

·         Severe Pain Conditions: Neuralgia, colic, and traumatic pain

·         Insomnia: Used as a sedative in extreme cases

·         Diarrhea & Dysentery: Due to strong Grahi and Stambhana action

·         Cough: Used in chronic cough formulations (very low dose)

Dosage (Classical – After Shodhana)

·         Powder (Churna): 15–30 mg (very minute dose, strictly supervised)

Precautions

·         Classified as Upavisha – toxic if misused

·         Use only after proper Shodhana and under expert Ayurvedic supervision

·         Contraindicated in children, pregnancy, and Pitta disorders

·         Long-term or unsupervised use can cause dependency and toxicity