Final answer:
The statement that morphine and codeine are derived from the opium poppy, Papaver somniferum, is true. They are pain relieving and cough suppressing alkaloids naturally found in the opium poppy. Heroin, also an opioid, is created through chemical modification of morphine.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that morphine and codeine are derived from the opium poppy, Papaver somniferum, is true. These substances are naturally occurring alkaloids found in the latex of the opium poppy. Morphine is a major pain reliever, constituting about 10% of the crude extract. Codeine, which is much less potent than morphine, comprises approximately 0.5% of the opium extract.
Heroin is another opiate that is synthetically derived from morphine and is known for its high potency and addictive properties. Opioid drugs such as OxyContin, which is used for pain relief, are structurally similar to heroin and have comparable physiological effects. These drugs bind to specific opioid receptors in the brain and other parts of the body, altering the perception of pain.
Historical and Cultural Context
Opium has had a significant impact in history, particularly in terms of trade and the development of the drug trade. For example, opium was linked to historical events such as the Opium Wars between Britain and China. Modern drug cartels, such as those in Colombia, have been involved in growing opium poppies and distributing heroin, a derivative of opium.