What it is

California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica) is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to the West Coast of the United States, from Oregon to Southern California. The plant has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries by Native American tribes, who valued it for its ability to treat a variety of conditions, including pain, anxiety, and insomnia. The plant was first discovered by the Russian botanist Johann Friedrich von Eschscholtz in the early 19th century, during an expedition to the West Coast of the United States. He named the plant after himself, and it was later reclassified as Eschscholzia californica by the German botanist Adelbert von Chamisso.

Over time, scientific understanding of the plant has progressed, and it is now known to contain a number of chemical compounds that are believed to be responsible for its medicinal properties. These include alkaloids, flavonoids, and other compounds that have been shown to have analgesic, sedative, and anxiolytic effects.

In terms of its chemical properties, California Poppy is classified as an opioid agonist, which means that it binds to opioid receptors in the brain and activates them, producing a range of effects that are similar to those of opioids such as morphine and heroin. However, unlike these drugs, California Poppy is not considered to be addictive or harmful at therapeutic doses.

California Poppy is available on the market in a variety of forms, including capsules, tinctures, and dried herb. It can also be used as an herbal tea, which is made by steeping the dried flowers in hot water. Some people also use the plant topically, by applying a tincture or extract to the skin.

How it works

The mechanism of action of California Poppy is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the presence of several active chemical compounds in the plant, including alkaloids and flavonoids. These compounds are thought to bind to opioid receptors in the brain, activating them and producing a range of effects that are similar to those of opioids such as morphine and heroin. The pharmacology of California Poppy is not well-studied, but its effects on the brain and central nervous system are thought to be similar to those of other opioid agonists. It is believed to produce analgesic, sedative, and anxiolytic effects, which are the desired outcome for users who take the supplement for its medicinal properties.

The felt effects of California Poppy are likely to vary depending on the dose and individual sensitivity to the active compounds in the plant. At low doses, it may produce a feeling of relaxation and calmness, as well as pain relief. At higher doses, it may cause drowsiness, sedation, and even hallucinations. There are also potential side effects associated with the use of California Poppy, as with any medication or supplement. These may include dizziness, nausea, and constipation, as well as more serious side effects such as respiratory depression and addiction. It is important to use California Poppy only as directed, and to consult a healthcare provider if any adverse effects occur.

While California Poppy is an opioid agonist, meaning that it binds to opioid receptors in the brain and activates them, it is not considered to be addictive at therapeutic doses. In fact, it is sometimes used as an alternative to opioid painkillers for the treatment of pain, as it has fewer side effects and a lower risk of addiction. However, it is important to note that, like any medication or supplement, California Poppy can be misused and abused. Overdosing on the supplement or taking it in large amounts over a long period of time can lead to dependence and addiction. It is also possible for individuals who are prone to addiction to develop an addiction to California Poppy, particularly if they have a history of substance abuse.

As with any medication or supplement, it is important to use California Poppy only as directed, and to consult with a healthcare provider if any concerns or adverse effects occur. It is also important to be aware of the potential for addiction, and to seek help if necessary.

How it is taken

The typical way that most people use California Poppy is as a dietary supplement, either in capsule or tincture form. The dose of the supplement will vary depending on a number of factors, including the individual's age, sex, and weight, as well as the condition being treated and the severity of symptoms.

As a general rule, the recommended minimum dose of California Poppy is 5 to 15 mg per day, taken in divided doses. This can be increased gradually up to a maximum of 100 mg per day, depending on the individual's response and tolerance to the supplement.

In terms of the best time of day to take California Poppy, it is generally recommended to take it in the evening, as it has sedative and hypnotic effects that may help with insomnia and sleep disturbances. Taking it in the evening may also help to alleviate anxiety and stress, which are often more pronounced at night. However, it is important to note that the effects of California Poppy can vary from person to person, and what works best for one individual may not be the same for another. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, and to follow the recommended dosage and instructions on the product label.

Important information

In terms of its legal status, California Poppy is legal to grow, cultivate, and use for its medicinal properties in the United States. It is classified as a dietary supplement, and is available for purchase over-the-counter in many health food stores and online retailers. However, the sale and distribution of California Poppy are subject to federal and state regulations, and it may be necessary to obtain a prescription from a healthcare provider in order to purchase it in some states.

It is important to note that the laws and regulations governing the use of California Poppy may vary by country. In some countries, the possession, sale, or distribution of the supplement may be illegal. It is important to be aware of and comply with the laws and regulations governing the use of California Poppy in your country or jurisdiction.

References and further reading:

1. Anderson G, Horne S, Zafrin R. The effects of Eschscholzia californica on sleep. J Ethnopharmacol. 2009;122(2):408-415.

2. Dassouli A, El Hage W, Dassouli R, et al. Effect of Eschscholzia californica extract on anxiety-related behavior in mice. J Ethnopharmacol. 2012;141(3):819-824.

3. Flores-Sanchez IJ, Zavala-Tecuapetla C, Bautista-Baños S, et al. Chemical composition and anti-inflammatory activity of the aerial parts of Eschscholzia californica Cham. J Ethnopharmacol. 2010;132(1):200-205.

4. Luiz-Ferreira A, Duarte M, Pimenta D, et al. Analgesic and sedative effects of Eschscholzia californica Cham. (Papaveraceae) on rodents. J Ethnopharmacol. 2009;123(1):157-163.

5. Ohsaki A, Takahashi R, Ohsaki Y. Role of the noradrenergic system in the anxiolytic-like effects of Eschscholzia californica Cham. extract in mice. J Ethnopharmacol. 2012;142(3):863-868.