Energetics:
Bitter, Cool

Common Names:
California Poppy, Goldpoppy, Yellow Poppy

Latin Name:
Eschscholzia Californica

Family Name:
Papaveraceae - Poppy Family

Functions:
Analgesic, anodyne, antispasmodic, febrifuge, hypnotic, nervine, sedative

TCM Functions:

1. Calms the mind and relieves anxiety & irritability
* insomnia, anxiety, irritability in all conditions, esp. Heart Yin deficiency, hyperactivity
2. Relieves pain
* pain in general (headaches, colic, menstrual cramps, etc.)
3. Circulates Heart Qi
* palpitations, tachycardia

Therapeutics:
Used for anxiety, bedwetting, headache, hyperactivity, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, restlessness and stress.

Notes:
California Poppy is a gentle remedy which was used by the Native Americans as a gentle sedative for children and the elderly. Although California Poppy is closely related to the Opium Poppy (Papaver somniferum) it has a markedly different effect on the central nervous system. California Poppy is not a narcotic and does not contain opiates like the Opium Poppy. In fact, rather than disorientating the user, it tends to normalize psychological function. Not addictive.

UpS Alternatives: Use cultivated California Poppy as an analog for endangered species Lady’s Slipper Orchid (Cypripedium spp.) and for endangered species Kava (Piper methysticum).

Contraindications: Avoid during pregnancy due to its uterine stimulating effect. Avoid or monitor use in conjunction with antidepressants and antipsychotics. Dose specific - excess can cause a feeling of “hangover”.