Dr. Rev. Isabel Sharkar

Dr. Isabel Sharkar, NMD, is co-founder of Indigo Integrative Health Clinic in Washington, D.C., a thriving clinic that has been serving the local community in health restoration and body optimization for over a decade. Being in constant pursuit for truth and healing Dr. Isabel graduated in 2011 from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine.

California Poppy Eases Nervous Tension

The beautiful golden-orange state flower of California has several uses for troubling times. California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) has been used in the management of insomnia, mood disturbance, fatigue, and nervous tension. This beautiful flower may also reduce aches and pains associated with over-exertion and stress.California poppy contains biologically active chemicals recognized for causing sleepiness and relaxation. Some of these biochemicals may block certain brain chemicals or transporters in the brain and nervous system.In case you're wondering, California poppy is not the same as the opium poppy. Rather, it is a distant botanical relative of the more infamous poppy. The California variety does not contain any opiates, does not cause addiction, and is safe for most people for use up to a three-month period and under care of a holistic practitioner (safety of longer-term use has not been extensively studied).The appropriate dose of this herb depends on several factors such as age, health history, and other medical concerns. Because California poppy has sedative effects, it can interact with prescription medications. It also may also interfere with safe operation of machinery and vehicles. Additionally, it is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.