California Poppy Whole Plant (Eschscholizia California)

Traditional Uses: Traditionally used by Native American tribes (including the Mendocino, Costanoan, and Chumash) as a mild sedative for insomnia and anxiety, as a topical poultice for wounds and toothaches, and as a remedy for colic, nervous agitation, and to kill head lice.

Potential Benefits: May act as a mild, non-addictive sedative and anxiolytic to relieve anxiety and promote sleep, exhibiting antispasmodic effects for smooth muscle (menstrual cramps, coughs) and analgesic properties for mild pain, potentially via GABAergic and serotonergic pathways.

Warnings: Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data; may cause additive drowsiness with CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, alcohol); and discontinue use at least 2 weeks before scheduled surgery.