Opium

Opium is a narcotic formed from the latex (i.e., sap) released by lacerating (or "scoring") the immature seed pods of opium poppies (Papaver somniferum). It contains up to 12% morphine, an opiate alkaloid, which is most frequently processed chemically to produce heroin for the illegal drug trade. The resin also includes codeine and non-narcotic alkaloids, such as papaverine, thebaine and noscapine.

Opium in "Getting Real"
The ritual of preparing a pellet of Opium for smoking could be as relaxing as the smoke. One would twirl some of the sticky mass on the pointy end of a dipper and gently roast it over an open flame careful not to burn it. Occasionally, one would roll it in the flat bowl of ones pipe to shape it and then continue to roast. When it was ready, it would be placed by the stem opening of the pipe and the bowl heated over the flame until the pellet frizzled. One would then inhale the smoke and feel the tranquility flow in.

Hu Zhiaoxing was such an aficionado and celebrated the peace treaty he had reached with the United States in this way after he returned to Catalina Island.