Opium poppy latex is collected and dried. It contains psychoactive alkaloids such as opium, heroin, morphine and codeine.

The poppy cultivation is regulated by the Central Board of Narcotics (CBN). It is grown only in parts of MP, UP and Rajasthan. CBN issues licenses to 25000-30000 farmers to grow poppy. The latex collected from the plants belong to the government. Except the government, others cannot transport or sell opium later. Farmers are allowed to sell poppy seeds used in cooking in the open market.

Farmers get RS.2000-2500 per kg for opium latex sold to the government. In 2018, poppy seeds prices touched Rs.1 lac per quintal.

Poppy alkaloids are used in modern medicine. Poppy seeds are used as seasoning in food.