Herbs 101: California Poppy

In 2011 I took a 10 day trip to Greece. It was one of my favorite travel experiences to date. I distinctly remember the red poppy flowers sprinkled all over the city of Athens. The poppy flower grows here in California too (known as California Poppy), and can be recognized by it's cup shaped flower, and beautiful orange petals.

Herbalists have traditionally used California poppy to help calm anxiety and relieve both mental and physical tension. It has a reputation for being a milder, non-addictive alternative to other poppies, and can be used for pain relief.

The native Americans use California poppy for colic, sleeplessness and griping stomach pains. It’s often used to counter excitability and nervousness in children, and for hyperactive children as well. When used as a tea before bed, it promotes long, restful sleep and is often used as a treatment for insomnia.

Most frequently used as a tincture, but can also be taken as a tea or encapsulated. Enjoy as often as needed to soothe the cares of the day...

Please consult your doctor before consuming if you are pregnant, breast feeding, or have any underlying medical conditions.