Dream Dust (CALIFORNIA POPPY)

Posted byblackbirdsbackyardPosted inFood Recipes, Powders, Teas

I have tried many remedies for sleep support in my kids (who are now teens). Glycerites, syrups, teas, tinctures, and flower remedies. This idea has been the most successful. The key is calling it “chai”. During the summer I chill it and throw in some boba. It also helps that is does not look like medicine or have an herbal taste.

Dream Dust

Grind the following measures of dried herbs and set aside-

2 TBSP of California Poppy Flowers

1 TBSP of hops flowers/cones

2 TBSP of tulsi

2 TBSP of rose petals

2 TBSP pf white vervain leaves

2 TBSP of skullcap

2 TBSP of mugwort leaves

2 TBSP of catnip

2 TBSP of rose petal

2 TBSP of chamomile flowers

Grind 4 TBSP of coconut sugar with

1 TBSP of oatstraw

1 tsp of lavender flowers

1/8 tsp of cardamon powder

1 TBSP of dried orange peel

Mix everything together.

Measure out 1 tsp of dream dust and add to the hot “dairy” beverage of your choice right before bedtime. Stir, let steep for 5 minutes and then strain. Consume when warm. Store unused dust in a jar that is stored in a cool, dark, place. For young people consider adding a bit of vanilla extract. If you want to skip the straining step you can use a fine tea filter.

This plant is a perennial or annual in climates with colder winters. Leaves are alternative, feathery ( finely dissected), and sage/blue green. Bright orange flowers have four petals, numerous stamens, and long needle shaped seed pod. It can grow 1-3 feet high, its long stems filled with white sap. Prefers growing in a well drained, sunny location.

Historically California poppy has been used for mild pain relief, sleep support, insomnia, fever, diarrhea, anxiety, headaches, stress, and coughs.

Latin/Binomial name: Eshscholzia californica

Botanical Family: Papaveraceae

Parts used: flowers, the whole plant

Energetics: cooling, dry, bitter

Element: air

Contraindications: considered safe for everyone is reasonable doses. Individuals with depression should not use this herb. Non addictive.

Spiritual uses: to support balance, positive spiritual growth, opening the heart, and trust in ones inner wisdom. Teaches us to depend on ourselves and our resources rather than things offered up by others. Useful when there is a situation involving addiction, restlessness, fantasy, or unhealthy attraction/dependence on another person.

You may have trouble finding much on the medicinal uses of this state flower of California

-May you sleep deeply and have lovely dreams

Published by blackbirdsbackyard

My backyard botanical pharmacy is located in Boulder Colorado. I began studying herbal medicinewhen I was 12 years old. In college I studied subjects like anthropology, microbiology, anatomy and physiology, After graduation I decided to go to midwifery school. I attended births and had a small practice until I retired early in order to be a mother full time. I have always had an herb garden, gathered plants and made my own healing formulas with plants. Over the last 30 years there have been many teachers and I have attended dozens of workshops. I am one of those people who is always reading, studying and learning. In 2019 I was called to practice as an herbalist professionally, using "plant spirit medicine" and bio-energetic ( 5 element)healing techniques. I feel that there is a big need in the community for my skills and talents. I hope to inspire others to start their own backyard pharmacies as a solution to species extinction and the healthcare crisis in America. Healing has also become a spiritual practice and way for me to feel balanced and connected with nature. I consult with clients in person, teach classes (adults and kids), give tours of my garden and offer apprenticeships. Health, joy, meaning, and support are everyone's birthright.