[Wikipedia] History: Use of the opium poppy predates written history. The making and use of opium was known to the ancient Minoans.[59] Its sap was later named opion by the ancient Greeks. The English name is based on the Latin adaptation of the Greek form. Evidence of the early domestication of opium poppy has been discovered through small botanical remains found in regions of the Mediterranean and west of the Rhine River, predating circa 5000 BC.[60] These samples found in various Neolithic sites show the incredibly early cultivation and natural spread of the plant throughout western Europe. (link added by Mary Ann Machi)