California poppy is an ornamental plant that flowers in the summer. California poppy’s scientific name is Eschscholzia californica. Its flowers usually show up in brilliant shades of yellow, orange, or red. California poppy leaves are used as food or garnish, and its seeds are used in cooking. The fresh petals can be used to create a syrup, and dried petals can be used in water as an infusion or boiled for tea. California poppy has been used as a traditional medicine that, in smaller doses, has sedative properties and, in larger doses, may help promote sleep and alleviate pain. 

California Poppy’s Anxiolytic, Sedative, and Nervine Properties

An anxiolytic is an intervention designed to reduce the symptoms of anxiety, such as dread, fear, rapid heartbeat, or tension. Herbs in this category include Chamomile (Matricaria recutita), Lavender (Lavandula), Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), and Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata). California poppy, in lower doses, also has this effect on the body.

Many herbalists today use California poppy in anti-anxiety herbal preparations.  Dr. Aviva Romm, a well-known herbalist, notes that California poppy has a calming effect and may be used to reduce nervousness and anxiety. She often combines it with other relaxing herbs to support sleep problems that are associated with anxiety. Rosemary Gladstar combines it with Chamomile, Milky oats (Avena sativa), and Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) and uses it as a soothing tea with infants and children. 

A nervine tonic is a substance that supports, nourishes, or acts upon the nervous system. Nervines help promote relaxation and relieve nervous tension. They help restore balance to the nervous system over time, not to provide immediate sedation.  California is a nervine tonic. Other common examples include Milky oats, Skullcap (Scutellaria), and Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri). Some herbalists combine nervine herbs together in their herbal preparations. 

A nervine relaxant is an herb that calm the nervous system, ease anxiety, and promote sleep. Some examples are Chamomile, Lavendar, Lemon balm, Passionflower, and Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root. Studies have shown that California poppy, as a mild sedative, may help quiet an overactive mind, especially when recurring thoughts prevent rest and sleep. 

Herbalists David Hoffman and Rosemary Gladstar note that California poppy can be used as a mild sedative for children, especially for sleeplessness and over-excitement. 

Dr. Aviva Rom suggests that California poppy is a relaxant herb that promotes sleep. She recommends this herb for those who have sleeping issues that accompany restless legs or muscle pain. 

California Poppy’s Antispasmodic and Pain-relieving Properties 

California poppy is a favored remedy of many herbalists for use in minor aches and pain, especially those associated with nervous tension. Traditionally, it has been used for colicky pains and headaches. It can help to ease cramps, spasms, and is useful for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). For muscles that have been overworked, it can be taken as a strong tea and used alongside an Epsom salt bath to help ease soreness. 

Analgesic herbs can be beneficial for managing mild-to-moderate discomfort and reducing systemic inflammation. Common herbs for pain relief include Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), White willow bark (Salix alba), Boswellia (Boswellia serrata), and topical Peppermint (Mentha piperita) oil. California poppy has been used traditionally for its analgesic effects on muscular tension. Studies have revealed that California has a significant pain management effect for pain-related insomnia and chronic pain. It may be indicated for pain relief. 

California Poppy’s Safety Status

California poppy’s aerial parts may be made into herbal preparations, such as herbal infusion or tincture. It initially tastes slightly sweet and warm, but then it follows with a bitter taste. It tends to calm and relax the body.

California poppy is not safe in pregnancy and lactation. Be cautious when working with this herb in children. Use for the shortest possible time on the lowest effective dose for pain and increase upwards incrementally for both children and adults. Seek the guidance of a qualified medical herbalist. 

California poppy may have additive effects when combined with other sedatives, Central Nervous System depressants, SSRIs or MSO inhibitors, so consult your doctor if you are on any of these medications. 

Action Step

California poppy has a strong history of traditional use in native populations, herbalists, and physicians for use as an overall nervous system support for anxiety, sleep, and pain. Speak with your physician or a qualified herbalist to see if California poppy could benefit you. 

May God bless you on your wellness journey!

Joni

P.S. What experience do you have with using California poppy?