Papaver somniferum seed extract is an extract derived from the seeds of the Papaver somniferum, commonly known as the opium poppy.

The name describes the structure of the molecule

• "Papaver somniferum" is the botanical name for the plant from which the extract is derived. 
• "Seed" refers to the seeds of the plant, which are the portion used to obtain the extract.

Description of raw materials used in production

The seeds of the Papaver somniferum are the primary raw material. They are harvested from the mature plant and then processed to obtain the extract. Solvents or water may be used in the extraction process.

It appears in the form of a brown powder

What it is for and where

Cosmetics

Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.