California Thursday - Poppies

I must admit to neglecting the blog this month, but I've been on a blog tour for "The Giving Meadow," and I've been working hard on 3 projects - 2 short stories and a novel length project, but I thought I'd pop in here and gush about the California Poppy.

Did you know it's the state flower of California? Not being a native, it's been a challege to learn about my adopted state. Maybe I'll focus on some of the basics. California is certainly a pretty state. It's a big state. New England could fit in the state at least 3 times overs. For me, personally, it's a little disconcerting to drive 6 hours and still be in the same state after growing up in New England. And I live in the desert. I kinda miss the snow, but I digress.

I find that poppies first come out in March and April in California. They are red, orange, yellow and occassionally pink. The petals close at night and open in the morning. April 6th is California Poppy Day in CA. A week long poppy festival is usually held in Lancaster, CA in April. Here's a link:http://www.poppyfestival.com/


They also have health benfits:


Sleep disturbances. Helpful for a gentle restful sleep.
Toothache. Reduces inflammation causing pain.
Anxiety. Although related to opium poppy, does not have addictive properties, gentle anti-anxiety effect.
Restless leg syndrome. Stops muscle spasms and relieves pain.


Interesting, huh, how herbal cures work. Some cautions though:
Use caution while driving or operating machines and taking calendula and sedative medications.
Do not take orally if pregnant, as it may cause uterine contractions.

I hope you find this interesting. I sure did!