Does California Poppy Work?

California poppy is claimed to be beneficial for many health conditions, but does California poppy work? This herbal remedy supposedly treats conditions such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia. However, there is no scientific evidence that California poppy is effective for any use. Some research has shown that when California poppy is combined with other ingredients, it may help with anxiety, but it has never been studied by itself for any use.

 

Does California Poppy Work?

California poppy is a flowering plant that is used as an herbal supplement. As with most other supplements, California poppy can be used for many different uses. California poppy is sometimes claimed to work for the following purposes:
 
California poppy is also used recreationally (usually by smoking) for its mild sedative and euphoric effects.
 

California Poppy Studies

There is no scientific evidence that California poppy (when used by itself) really works for any use. However, one small study suggests that a combination of California poppy, magnesium, and hawthorn may work for treating mild to moderate anxiety. California poppy has not been studied by itself for any use.
 

Final Thoughts on California Poppy Effectiveness

Early studies suggest that California poppy (in combination with a few other active ingredients) may be useful for anxiety disorders. However, further research is needed to confirm that California poppy is indeed effective (and safe) for any use. It is important to remember that California poppy is classified as a dietary supplement (not a drug) and is, therefore, less strictly regulated than drugs.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;