what is laudanum
Laudanum /ËlÉËdáµnÉm/ is a tincture of opium containing approximately 10% powdered opium by weight (the equivalent of 1% morphine).Reddish-brown and extremely bitter, laudanum contains almost all of the opium alkaloids, including morphine and codeine, and its high morphine concentration makes it a potent narcotic. Tincture of Opium (Laudanum), U.S.P., attributed to the United States Pharmacoepia of 1863 : Macerate 2Â½ ounces opium, in moderately fine powder in 1 pint water for 3 days, with frequent agitation. 2  Add 1 pint alcohol, and macerate for 3 days longer.