Corn poppy

Papaver rhoeas

Traditionally attributed effects: mildly narcotic in large amounts; Papaver somniferum (source of opium) is poisonous.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Seed in cooking and baking; oil from the seed; in autumn bath.

Use in traditions

The red petals were boiled into a syrup that was given to children for coughs and sleeplessness; they contain the mild alkaloid rhoeadine but no opium. Since the First World War, when poppies bloomed on the battlefields of Flanders, the poppy has been the symbol of remembrance. In herbal magic associated with rest, fertility, prosperity and love.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Folklore and herbal magic

Symbolic meanings from folk use and modern herbal magic. These are handed-down associations, not effects.

Calm, fertility, prosperity, love, sleep, invisibility, abundance.

Home, kitchen and folk use

Attributed effects

Mildly narcotic in large amounts; Papaver somniferum (source of opium) is poisonous.

Preparation and amount

Seed in cooking and baking; oil from the seed; in autumn bath.

Ways to prepare herbs: Steam and bath

Sources

en.wikipedia.org

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