California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) can be easily found along roadsides in California. In California, California poppy plants grow wildly and are protected by the California State Legislation. People are not allowed to pluck or even dig out the plant from the ground. However, you do not need to live in California, for you to see or grow your very own California poppy plant. A lot of people these days are already growing their own plant at home. Flourishing season of Califonia poppy is during Spring and stops midsummer. They are named California poppy for it has a vibrant golden orange in color. In the wild, California poppies do not need any watering or any types of fertilization for it to thrive and grow, they sprout and bloom flowers by the next season on their own.
Health Benefits of California Poppy:
Way back in the past, North Americans knew that California poppies possess therapeutic properties that they can benefit from. That is why, it is one of the oldest natural remedy for several medical conditions, including depression, anxiety, insomnia, toothache, and other stress-induced conditions. One active compound present in California poppy that is responsible for its morphine-like effect is Protopine. Although California poppy has morphine-like effects, it does not mean for it to contain narcotic morphine. This plant’s widely used as a mild painkiller, sleeping remedy, and/or antiseptic for washing wounds.
Different California Poppy Preparations:
There are several different ways on how to prepare California poppy, including tincture or tea infusion. However, using it as a tea infusion is the simplest way on how to prepare the plant. Modern herbalists find all the plant’s parts to be effective in relieving pain, anxiety, and even insomnia.
How to Prepare California Poppy Tea Infusion
You can either choose from using fresh California poppy plants or the dried one. When you are going to use the dried California poppy, all you have to do:
- Get 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herbs, and place it inside a cup.
- Pour boiling water into the cup
- Let it steep and cool down for about 10 minutes before drinking.
If using fresh California poppy:
- Use 1 to 2 tablespoons of fresh plant, and place inside a cup.
- Pour boiling water into the cup
- Let it steep and cool down for about 10 minutes before drinking.
California poppy for children:
It is safe for children to take California poppy, since it only has mild relaxant effects. Children with ADHD can benefit from California poppy. Instead of letting children drink tea infusions, which may taste bitter, you can let them take a few drops of tincture (20 to 30 drops).
