Rapid method for extraction and colorimetric estimation of morphine in Indian opium

A rapid method for the extraction and estimation of morphine in Indian opium is described. Methanolic extract of opium is treated with activated charcoal and the colorless extract obtained contains all of the major opium alkaloids. Morphine content is estimated colorimetrically by using hydrogen peroxide-copper-ammonia. The reaction is specific for morphine, and no other major opium alkaloid responds. The results obtained by the proposed method are in general agreement with those obtained by the nitroso method.