SAFE
California Poppy
Eschscholzia californica
Possibly Safe
V1 Verified
Sleep Support
PubMed Studies
680
About
California poppy contains alkaloids (eschscholtzine, californidine) with GABA-modulating, sedative, and anxiolytic effects. Not addictive.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Modulates GABAergic neurotransmission via GABA-A receptor allosteric modulation or GABA transaminase inhibition increasing inhibitory CNS tone. Activates melatonin synthesis or MT1/MT2 receptor pathways, or reduces cortisol secretion by modulating HPA axis activation.
📊 Effectiveness
Mild sedation and anxiety
Evidence Grade C · 6 studies · n=480
Evidence grades: A=Strong RCT evidence · B=Good clinical trials · C=Limited trials · D=Preliminary/traditional
👥 Safety by Population
🚫 Contraindications & Warnings
CNS depressant interaction. Pregnancy: avoid (emmenagogue). Not a narcotic.
🏷️ Other Names
Eschscholzia californica