Note: Opium is obtained from incisions made in the capsules
of the plant, and the best flows from the first
incision. It is imported into Europe and America
chiefly from the Levant, and large quantities are sent
to China from India, Persia, and other countries. It is
of a brownish yellow color, has a faint smell, and
bitter and acrid taste. It is a stimulant narcotic
poison, which may produce hallicinations, profound
sleep, or death. It is much used in medicine to soothe
pain and inflammation, and is smoked as an intoxicant
with baneful effects.
{Opium joint}, a low resort of opium smokers. [Slang]