Organic California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

Botanical Details

• Botanical Name: Eschscholzia californica
• Family: Papaveraceae
• Common Names: Golden poppy, California sunlight, cup of gold
• Origin: Native to the western United States, especially California
• Parts Used: Aerial parts (flowers, leaves, stems)

Habitat and Growing Conditions

California poppy thrives in well-drained, sandy soils and is often found in grasslands, open woods, and along roadsides. It prefers full sun and can tolerate dry conditions, making it a hardy plant in its native range. It’s an annual or short-lived perennial and is known for self-seeding easily.

History and Folklore

California poppy was used by Native American tribes for various purposes, including as a mild sedative and for pain relief. It was also valued for its beautiful flowers, which were used in ceremonies and as a source of yellow dye.

Medicinal Uses

California poppy is primarily used for its calming effects on the nervous system. It is considered a gentle sedative and anxiolytic, helpful for:

• Insomnia: Promotes relaxation and improves sleep quality.
• Anxiety: Helps reduce mild anxiety and nervousness.
• Pain Relief: Has mild analgesic properties, useful for headaches and minor aches.

Active Compounds

The primary active compounds in California poppy include:

• Alkaloids: Such as protopine, californidine, and eschscholtzine, which contribute to its sedative and analgesic effects.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidant properties that may support overall health.

Energetics and Taste

• Energetics: Cooling, relaxing
• Taste: Bitter, slightly earthy

Cautions and Interactions

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation, as its safety in these populations hasn’t been well-studied.
• Medication Interactions: May enhance the effects of sedatives or depressants. Consult a healthcare provider if you are taking other medications.

Research and Studies

• Study 1: A study published in Phytomedicine highlighted the sedative effects of California poppy, confirming its usefulness in treating mild anxiety and sleep disorders .
• Study 2: Research in Journal of Ethnopharmacology noted its analgesic properties, supporting its use for pain relief .
• Study 3: Another study found that California poppy may help in managing stress by reducing cortisol levels.