Organic California Poppy is traditionally used as a herbal tea to promote relaxation and support restful sleep. It's favoured by herbalists for its soothing properties to help calm the mind and body, particularly in the evening.
No, they are completely different plants from different families. Organic California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica) is not an opiate and does not contain opium. It is a non-addictive herb valued for its gentle, calming properties.
The most common way to use the cut herb is to brew it as a herbal tea. Steep one or two teaspoons of the organic poppy in hot water (not boiling) for 5-10 minutes. It is often blended with other calming herbs like chamomile or passionflower.
California Poppy tea has a mild, slightly earthy, and subtly bitter or herbaceous flavour. It is not overpowering, which is why it blends very well with other, more aromatic herbs like mint, lemon balm, or lavender.
Due to its traditional use for relaxation and supporting sleep, the best time to consume California Poppy tea is typically in the evening, about 30-60 minutes before you plan to go to bed.
It is traditionally regarded as a gentle herbal nervine, meaning it helps to soothe and relax the nervous system rather than acting as a strong, conventional sedative. It's sought after for promoting a sense of calm and easing into sleep naturally.
