Natural opioids are compounds derived directly from the opium poppy plant, a species known as Papaver somniferum. They include morphine and codeine, which have been used for centuries to alleviate pain, with references to their use dating back to ancient civilizations. These substances work by binding to specific receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body, reducing the perception of pain and creating a sense of well-being. This interaction is akin to a lock and key mechanism, where the opioid molecules fit perfectly into the opioid receptors, triggering a cascade of biochemical events that culminate in pain relief and euphoria.
