California Poppy
Also known as- Eschscholzia californica, Poppy, Gold Poppy. Introduction The California poppy is the state flower of California, a tender perennial plant bearing blue-green leaves and 2 to 4 inch (5 to 10 cm) wide flowers that open in bright sun and close on cloudy days and at night. California poppy is one of the oldest North American remedies for stress-induced maladies including sensitivity to changes in the weather. extract acts as a mild sedative when smoked. It should not be confused with opium that contains different type of alkaloids. The effect is far milder than that of opium and this herb is not addictive. A tincture of California poppy is very effective in treating nervousness. Larger doses are used for treating insomnia. Constituents Alkaloids, principally cryptopine. Parts Used Above-ground parts of the plant, dried. Typical Preparations Most frequently used as a tincture. Combined with hawthorn and magnesium salts in formulas for relieving anxiety. Also commonly combined with birthwort, night-blooming cereus, kava, lavender, passionflower, St. JohnÍs wort, and/or valerian. Can also be taken as a tea or encapsulated. Summary California poppy is most often employed to provide restful sleep without the side effects of benzodiazepine drugs such as Librium, Valium, and Xanax. Clinical studies show that California poppy in combination with hawthorn and magnesium salts is safe, effective, and free of side effects for the treatment of mild to moderate anxiety. The advantage of California poppy is relief from tension without morning grogginess, nausea, vomiting, or constipation. Precautions Safety not established during pregnancy or nursing or for children under the age of 6.
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