California
Poppy
Eschscholzia
californica
This member
of the poppy family (Papaveraceae) is an excellent and legal alternative
to other less palatable members. It blooms in June and July, growing
tired of the overheated conditions of late summer; in warmer climates,
you can get two crops per season from this prolific self-seeder.
We harvest the leaves and flowers, occasionally the root. It is
considered an invasive weed down South – for us, it suffices
to plant it in broad areas and allow it to take over. You can harvest
the long seedpods, or just let is self-seed, adding a layer of compost
at the end of every season.
Elemental associations: Water
Phytochemistry: Alkaloids, flavo-glycosides (D. Hoffmann)
Actions: Sedative, anodyne, anti-spasmodic, hypnotic, bordeline
narcotic
Specific systems: Nervous, children
The California poppy is very similar, though much milder, than the
opium poppy. It is useful in any condition that has chronic or acute
pain (requiring fairly large doses), and helpful in insomnia where
pain or anxiety are leading causes. Specifically, it can also help
when the problem is early-morning (2-3 am) waking rather than simply
falling asleep.
It can be used for the deep mental relaxation necessary for visioning
or some ritual use; some have smoked the dried leaves and flowers
for this purpose. For a strong hypnotic brew, combine in equal parts
with Scullcap and Jamaican Dogwood.
It is an invaluable and gentle remedy for children, aiding in teething
and nervousness.
Indications: Early-morning waking; anxiety; teething and sleeplessness
in children; cramping at night
Contra-indications: None really. Any herb can be habit-forming if
not used with respect.
Preparation/Dosage: A tincture is prepared from the fresh flowering
plant, 40% alcohol, 1:3. Take ½ tsp (children) to 1 ½
tsp (adults) in the evening, 30 minutes before bed, or throughout
the day for teething.
An infusion can be made from the dried herb; use 6 TBS per quart
of water.
