ENGLISH NAME: Field Poppy
(Common Poppy)
LATIN NAME: Papaver
rhoeas
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Mák vlčí
Turkey: Gelincik
Bulgaria: Див мак (Div mak)
Georgia: ველის ყაყაჩო (Velis qaqacho)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Common across
temperate Europe and Anatolia
Elevation: 100–1,400 meters
Terrain: Weedy areas in
agricultural fields, roadside ditches, abandoned lots, and dirt tracks
DESCRIPTION:
Field Poppy is an annual herbaceous plant growing 30 to 90 cm tall. It is
easily recognizable by its vibrant red flowers, each with four delicate petals
often marked with a black blotch at the base. The stems and buds are covered in
coarse hairs. It blooms from late spring through early summer and is a symbol
of remembrance in many cultures.
USABLE PARTS: Petals
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
The petals have traditionally been used for their mild sedative, antitussive
(cough-soothing), and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects. Commonly used in teas
for calming anxiety, aiding sleep, and soothing coughs.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Generally safe in moderate amounts. Large quantities may cause drowsiness. Not
to be confused with opium poppy (Papaver somniferum), which contains
narcotic alkaloids.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Often blended with chamomile, linden, or lemon balm in calming herbal teas.
PREPARATION:
Petals are air-dried and used in herbal teas, syrup infusions, or potpourri.
They can also be added to bath blends or used for natural dyeing.
HARVEST TIME:
Late spring to early summer, during peak bloom before petals begin to wilt.
HARVEST METHOD:
Pick fresh petals early in the day after dew has evaporated. Avoid rainy or
humid conditions. Dry in thin layers in a shaded, ventilated space.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Store dried petals in sealed containers, away from direct sunlight and
moisture. Use within one year for best potency and color.