The tea is consumed for its narcotic effect, and in small amounts for analgesic, anti-diarrheal, and sedative effects.[1] It has also been known to be used as a method of relieving withdrawal symptoms but it is not recommended for use in this way in modern society (because of knowledge we have now on opiates and opioids, as well as the receptors they affect). Use of such preparations originated in parts of Central and Eastern Europe, the Levant and Near East, and Central and South Central Asia millennia ago.