Botanical name
Eschscholzia californica
Also known as .
California Poppy is a safe and non-addictive plant that makes a calming tea and satisfying smoke with a gentle, relaxing effect.
Learn about California Poppy
California poppy has a reputation of being a milder, non-addictive alternative to other poppies, and can be used for pain relief, anxiety and hysteria.
The native Americans use California poppy for colic, sleeplessness and griping stomach pains. It is often used to counter excitability and nervousness in children, and has promise for hyperactive children as well. When used as a tea before bed, California poppy promotes long, restful sleep and is often used as a treatment for insomnia. This wonderful herb can also be smoked for relaxation.
As it is completely safe, mild and non-addictive, this gentle poppy is completely legal and has the potential to be of benefit in assisting with opiate addiction and withdrawal: drinking strong tea or smoking the herb as often as needed, has been used to help overcome heroine, morphine and opium cravings. It has also been known to assist in interrupting cannabis and tobacco habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best herbs for anxiety attacks?
What are the best herbs for anxiety attacks?
For anxiety attacks—which come on suddenly and feel intense—fast-acting herbs that calm the nervous system and ease panic are most effective. Here are some of the best ones:
- Kava – One of the strongest herbal relaxants. Calms the mind and body quickly, making it ideal for acute anxiety or panic. Best used occasionally. We recommend our Instant Kava for quick & easy preparation.
- Passionflower – Soothes racing thoughts and tension. Great for calming the nerves during high-stress moments or before bed. We recommend our Passionflower 1:2 Liquid Herb for ease of use & quick absorption.
- Skullcap – Eases sudden nervous tension, restlessness, and twitchy muscles. Can help slow mental spiraling. We recommend our Skullcap 1:2 Liquid Herb for ease of use & quick absorption.
- California Poppy – A gentle sedative that reduces emotional overwhelm and physical symptoms like a pounding heart or tight chest.
- Lemon Balm – Quick-acting and soothing for both the mind and digestion. Ideal when anxiety causes stomach upset or shakiness. We recommend our Lemon Balm 1:2 Liquid Herb for ease of use & quick absorption.
- Lavender – Both aromatherapy and internal use can rapidly calm the nervous system and reduce panic symptoms.
- Rescue Plus (Bach Flower Essence + Australian Bush Flower Essence) – Not an herb, but a classic fast-acting flower essence blend many find helpful in moments of crisis.
Common Uses
Alcohol Replacement, Anxiety, Harm Reduction from Cannabis, Harm Reduction from Opiates/Alcohol, Heart Palpitations, Mood Enhancement, Nervous System, Nicotine & Drug Withdrawal, Pain, Relaxation, Restlessness, Sedation, Socialising, Stress, Tension, Milled Herb Blends, Trauma (Emotional), Neuralgia, Headache, and Insomnia.Precautions
There is little data surrounding the use of California Poppy in pregnancy and breastfeeding. May increase activity of Benzodiazapines and CNS depressants – use with caution.
Precautions
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California Poppy
Vendor:Happy Herb CoRegular price $21.50 AUDRegular priceUnit price / perSale price $21.50 AUD -
California Poppy Spagyric
Vendor:Happy Herb CoRegular price $40.00 AUDRegular priceUnit price / perSale price $40.00 AUD -
Peace Pipe
Vendor:Happy Herb CoRegular price From $26.00 AUDRegular priceUnit price / perSale price From $26.00 AUD
Collapsible content
References
Ray Thorpe (2005), Happy High Herbs, p15
David Hoffman (1995), The New Holistic Herbal, p186
Michael Tierra (1998), Planetary Herbology, p356




