| Known as the original
tranquilizer, California poppy sprang up in Washington, California and
Oregon, and sporadically in other states. In shades of orange and
yellow, its flowers bloom from February through September. It grows
easily in distressed areas and has the ability to come back quickly
after disasters such as wild fires. It is one of the most cultivated of
medicinal herbs. In the papaver family, it is a close relative of the
opium poppy, which historically has been used to relieve pain through
smoking or eating. Poe, E. B. Browning, Picasso and Dickens were some
of the famous people in the arts who used opium for inspiration. It is
found in many common medicines, for example codeine and morphine, but
controlled by the government because of its addictive properties.
California poppy, on the other hand, has
different effects on the nervous system and is considered nonhabit
forming. Native Americans used it as a mild sedative for young children
and the elderly. Juice from poppy roots was traditionally used as a
remedy for toothaches and headaches. Tea was given to children with
colic, insomnia or over-excitement.
Besides its use as a sedative, it is a
notable remedy for the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, stress,
irritability, hyperactivity and muscular pain as a result of acute
injury. It contains antimicrobial properties that can be helpful for a
variety of bacterial conditions, certain coughs and external scrapes
and cuts. Taken in the evening, California poppy may be helpful in
promoting a restful night’s sleep.
Since this remedy is very gentle, it may not
be effective for those with chronic sleep disorders. It is advisable
for pregnant women to avoid this herb. The Co-op carries California
poppy in the form of tinctures.
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