California Poppy, 1 oz

1. May Improve Sleep

As a sedative, California poppy is commonly used as an herbal sleep aid.

In a review study, researchers analyzed the alkaloids of California poppy and their beneficial effects on GABA and sleep. GABA, the brain's primary neurotransmitter, encourages sleep and relaxation. These results imply that California poppy could assist in calming the brain and enhancing sleep quality.

A four-week observational study examined the effects of combining 80mg of California poppy extract with 32mg of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) extract on insomnia. The findings indicated significant improvements in sleep duration and efficiency, along with a reduction in nighttime awakenings. Additionally, participants experienced a notable decrease in anxiety levels.

In a four-week clinical trial, 40 participants experiencing insomnia received a combination therapy consisting of California poppy, passionflower, lemon balm, melatonin, and vitamin B6. The results showed a marked enhancement in overall sleep quality.

2. May Work to Manage Pain

California poppy is commonly known for its pain-relieving properties.

An open-lab trial involving two studies examined the analgesic effects of California poppy alkaloids, including protopine, californidine, escholtzine, and sanguinarine. The results demonstrated that the plant exhibits significant pain-relief properties for chronic pain and pain-related insomnia.

An animal study investigated the analgesic properties of Eschscholzia californica extract. The results indicated that California poppy could be a promising option for managing both acute and chronic pain, including sciatica and osteoarthritis.

Additionally, Health Canada has authorized a product containing 3 grams of the dried herb, standardized to contain 0.8% isoquinoline alkaloids, including californidine, escholtzine, and protopine. This product is approved for use as an analgesic and mild sedative (hypnotic) in the management of chronic pain.

3. May Help Reduce Anxiety

As a nervine relaxant, California poppy is often used to reduce stress and anxiety.

A double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial involving 264 participants examined the impact of California poppy, hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha), and magnesium on individuals with mild to moderate anxiety. Results showed that this combination effectively reduced anxiety.

Two animal studies investigated California poppy's sedative and anxiolytic effects, finding that this medicinal herb exhibits strong anti-anxiety and sleep-enhancing properties.