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herbal medicine

We share traditional, scientific and practical insights written by experienced herbalists and health experts from the world of herbal medicine and natural health

  • Herb overview

    Safety

    Not safe in pregnancy and lactation.

    Additive effects when combined with other sedatives.

    Sustainability

    Status: Low risk

    Key constituents

    Isoquinoline alkaloids
    Flavonoids

    Quality

    USA
    Wild harvested and cultivated

    Key actions

    Sedative
    Anxiolytic
    Nervine
    Antispasmodic

    Key indications

    Insomnia
    Pain
    Anxiety
    Hyperactivity

    Key energetics

    Cool
    Dry

    Preperation and dosage

    Aerial part
    12 g per day
    Between 6–12 ml per day

  • How does it feel?

    A preparation of California poppy made by combination of infusion or tincture has a warmly aromatic odour. The initial taste is slightly sweet and warm, then a subsequent bitterness follows, as a result of the alkaloids. The initial sensation is one of immediate calm and relaxation as the warmth of the herb can be felt spreading throughout the body.

    California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
    California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
    California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

  • Into the heart of california poppy

    California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
    California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

    California poppy has a long tradition of use in Western herbal medicine for calming the nervous system and has been used for states of unrest such as insomnia, nervous agitation and mild to moderate pain. It can be used for any such presentations in children too, including over-excitability (5).

    California poppy is an excellent nervine that is energetically both cooling and relaxing. This combination of properties offers a perfect antidote to a hot and wired system. This herb may be indicated in hyperactive and agitated states of the nervous system. This plant can provide a calming and centering effect during times of stress, anxiety, depression or burnout (2). It can also be applied to calm the mind during anxious states, especially when repetitive thoughts are a strong feature in affecting peace or sleep.

    California poppy may be used for pain that interferes with sleep or for pain in the nerves such as is experienced in sciatica and shingles. This can be applied both topically and internally (1,2).

    California poppy is thought to have an affinity with the emotional heart. This is due to its dynamic combination of antihypertensive, antispasmodic and nervine actions. It is especially indicated when stress and anxiety affecting the nervous system manifest in the cardiovascular system, such as increased heart rate, mild chest pain and palpitations (1,2).

    It can be used to gently relax these tensions, harmonising the mind to bring a sense of calm and serenity to the heart.

  • What practitioners say

    Nervous systemNervous system

    California poppy is primarily used to support conditions affecting the nervous system including panic, anxiety, stress and pain. The desired effect is determined by the dose, with lower doses eliciting an anxiolytic effect, whilst higher doses become more sedative and analgesic (1,2). 

    It is a favoured remedy of many herbalists for use in minor aches and pains, especially if this is associated with nervous tension. It has a tradition of use for headaches and for colicky pains, so can help to ease cramps, spasms and is also useful for IBS. For overworked muscles, it can be taken in the form of a strong tea, and accompanied by an Epsom salt bath to ease soreness.

    California poppy can help to quieten an overactive mind, especially when recurring thoughts prevent sleep and rest. In cases where this is accompanied by physical sensations of anxiety such as spasm or pain, this herb is especially helpful (2,4). It is a safe and effective children’s remedy that can be used as  a sleep aid when there is anxiety, pain or over-excitability. Sources also suggest it can be used for bedwetting (1).

    It is often included in a mix with other nervous system relaxants for a synergistic effect. It combines well with passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) for hyperactivity, sleep disturbances and incessant rumination. It can also be combined with hops (Humulus lupulus) and valerian (Valeriana officinalis) to aid with insomnia and sleeplessness (8,9).

    It can be mixed with another member of the poppy family — corydalis (Corydalis yanhusuo) to increase the analgesic effect and in combination with hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) to ease anxiety, especially when cardiac symptoms are present (1,8). 

  • California poppy research

    California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
    California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

    Alkaloids from Eschscholzia californica and their capacity to inhibit binding of [3H]8-Hydroxy-2-(di-N-propylamino)tetralin to 5-HT1A receptors in vitro

    In this in vitro study, a 70% ethanol extract of California poppy was able to bind to serotonin receptors 5-HT(1A) — these are responsible for neuromodulation, decreasing blood pressure and heart rate by blood vessel dilation and vagus nerve stimulation. The activity on the 5-HT(1A) receptor was at least partly due to the presence of the aporphine alkaloidN-methyllaurotetatanine (10). 

    Modulatory effects of Eschscholzia californica alkaloids on recombinant GABAA receptors

    This preclinical study involved analysing the alkaloids from the aerial parts of Eschscholzia californica and their effect on human GABAa receptors. The study found (S)-reticuline alkaloids acted as a positive GABAa modulator. They concluded that the herb’s sedative effects were due to (S)-reticuline alkaloids metabolising into morphine-like alkaloids acting at opioid receptors rather than direct GABAa binding. The study suggested using the herb in higher doses for stronger sedative effects (3). 

    Double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a fixed combination containing two plant extracts (Crataegus oxyacantha and Eschscholtzia californica) and magnesium in mild-to-moderate anxiety disorders

    In a double-blind randomised controlled trial a combination of California poppy, hawthorn (Crataegus oxycantha) and magnesium were compared to placebo to evaluate safety and efficacy of the combination on mild to moderate anxiety disorders. The trial was conducted amongst 264 adults diagnosed with mild-moderate generalised anxiety. Participants were divided into two groups, with one group (n=130) receiving the herbal extract, and the other (n=134) receiving placebo. The dosage given was two tablets twice a day for three months.

    The Hamilton anxiety scale, somatic scores and change in patient self-assessment examined at day 7,14,30, 60 and 90 days after treatment showed that anxiety fell during treatment. The herbal treatment showed significant reductions in anxiety scores then placebo (p=0.005) suggesting these herbs can be effective in reducing anxiety (11). 

    A combination of Eschscholtzia californica Cham. and Valeriana officinalis L. extracts for adjustment insomnia: A prospective observational study

    This open label, observational, longitudinal study was carried out in a French primary care setting to assess the effect of a supplement containing Eschscholzia californica and Valeriana officinalis on individuals with insomnia. Thirty-six patients were included in the study, and were instructed to take up to four tablets per night over the course of four weeks. Each tablet contained 80 mg of Eschscholzia californica and 32 mg Valeriana officinalis root extract.

    Results showed that after one month insomnia severity was reduced (p<0.0001), sleep duration had increased by 0.5 hours (p=0.002) and waking in the night was also reduced. Anxiety scores were also improved (p<0.0001). This is a promising study for the use of California poppy in the treatment of anxiety and insomnia, however, more robust studies with a control group are warranted to further explore this herb (12). 

  • Historical use of California poppy

    California poppy has a long tradition of use in Western herbal medicine for calming the nervous system, being used for states of unrest such as insomnia, nervous agitation and mild to moderate pain (6). 

    It was used by Native Americans as a food, (the whole plant was cooked and eaten as a vegetable) and as a medicine in various preparations for both children and adults. Tribes from different parts of California used the plant in various ways and for a variety of conditions. The Mendocino used a root preparation applied to a painful tooth, taken for stomach aches or applied as a wash for headaches.

    The Costanoan tribes used a decoction of the flowers to promote healthy sleep and as a preparation to be rubbed into hair to kill lice. The Chumash made a poultice of the seed pods to halt lactation in breast-feeding (7).

  • California poppy’s herbal actions

    Herbal actions describe therapeutic changes that occur in the body in response to taking a herb. These actions are used to express how a herb physiologically influences cells, tissues, organs or systems. Clinical observations are traditionally what have defined these actions: an increase in urine output, diuretic; improved wound healing, vulnerary; or a reduction in fever, antipyretic. These descriptors too have become a means to group herbs by their effects on the body — herbs with a nervine action have become the nervines, herbs with a bitter action are the bitters. Recognising herbs as members of these groups provides a preliminary familiarity with their mechanisms from which to then develop an understanding of their affinities and nuance and discern their clinical significance.

    Western actions

  • California poppy’s energetic qualities

    Herbal energetics are the descriptions Herbalists have given to plants, mushrooms, lichens, foods, and some minerals based on the direct experience of how they taste, feel, and work in the body. All traditional health systems use these principles to explain how the environment we live in and absorb, impacts our health. Find out more about traditional energetic actions in our article “An introduction to herbal energetics“.

  • What can I use california poppy for?

    California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
    California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

    California poppy is used to ease nervous tension and facilitate a feeling of relaxation in the mind and the body. As a sedative, California poppy helps to promote sleep when taken in the evening before bed. It can be applied to support states of nervous exhaustion, and balance feelings of being tired and wired, often due to prolonged stress or burnout (1,2). 

    This herb has both antispasmodic and nervine actions, California poppy may also  be used to ease spasm in the digestive system and in the urinary tract. This may be applied in conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and enuresis (1,2). 

    Due to its antispasmodic and relaxant actions, it is helpful in relieving muscular tension and aches. This may be best achieved by a combined approach using a tea made from the fresh flowers accompanied with a salve applied topically to the affected area. Those with spasmodic conditions associated with the nervous system such as neuralgia and neuropathy will also likely find benefit from using this herb regularly (3).

    California poppy has a calming effect on the nervous system, which also makes it useful to use during acute periods of anxiety or during panic attacks. With its gentle nervine relaxant effect, it may also be used for insomnia, restlessness and migraines.

    It is non-addictive and safe for all ages including children. Its gently sedative effects can be especially helpful in treating colic, restlessness or pain in children (1–4).

  • Did you know?

    The opium poppy – Papaver somniferum is renowned for possessing potent sedative properties. The opioids (alkaloids within the plant) are utilised by the medical profession in the production of codeine and morphine.  As well as the strong sedative quality, morphine is an extremely powerful analgesic. California poppy is a far safer distant cousin. As it contains no morphine, it is a non-addictive, gentle option that is used in some programmes of opiate withdrawal (13,14).

  • Botanical description

    Eschscholzia californica has finely pinnated (feathery) blue-green leaves and intense warm yellow-orange solitary 4-petalled flowers, silky in texture and having long stems.

    The flowers close at night or in cold, windy weather. Slender, cylindrical ribbed seed capsules follow flowering, which split open rather explosively, spreading numerous small globular seeds up to six feet away. It is drought-tolerant and spreads well (15).

  • Common names

    • California poppy
    • Golden poppy
    • Cup of Gold

  • Habitat

    This graceful hardy annual, or perennial in warmer climates,  is native to western North America and is the state flower of California. It has adapted to grow well in Mediterranean countries and grows well in the UK too, often cultivated for ornamental gardens. It is often found on grasslands and arid land, but is also found in coastal dunes, chaparral and coastal scrub, dry plains and coastal prairies, and the open slopes of pine or redwood forests (16).

  • How to grow california poppy

    California poppies are easy to grow. They prefer poor, well-drained soil in full sun and can be grown in exposed or coastal gardens, or in a mixed flower meadow.

    • Sow in a drill spreading seeds thinly along the row. Use a trowel or your fingers to cover seeds very lightly with soil and water with a fine rose watering can.
    • Sow seeds directly in situ where they are to flower between spring and autumn. These plants will suffer if moved. 
    • Thin seedlings out once they’re about 4 cm tall and again at 8 cm, so that they’re spaced about 15 cm apart.
    • Deadhead regularly to ensure a long flowering period (17).

  • Herbal preparation of california poppy

    • Infusion 
    • Tincture 

    Preparations made from the fresh plant material are considered more potent, whether used as a tea or tincture.

  • Plant parts used

    Aerial parts

  • Dosage

    • Tincture (1:10| 45%): 2–4 ml three times daily. Drop doses can also be given.
    • Fluid extract (1:1 | 25%): 1–2 ml three times daily. 
    • Infusion/decoction: 2–4 g up to three times daily (8,18). 
    • Other preparations: 1:5 in 25%, up to 4 ml per night for sleeplessness in children (1)

    Dosages calculated from animal studies suggest that 1.5–6 g for a 60 kg adult in humans is required for a sedative effect, whilst dosages of between 25–200 mg per kg for a more gentle anxiolytic effect (18).

  • Constituents

    • Isoquinoline alkaloids: Californidine. sanguinarine, chelirubine, macarpine, chelerythrine,  protopine, eschscholtzine, allocryptopine , (S)-Reticuline and N-methyllaurotetatanine
    • Flavonoid glycosides: Occurring mainly as quercetin isorhamnetine glycosides, as well as kaempferol. 
    • Phenolic acids: Caffeic and ferulic acids.
    • Fatty acids
    • Polysaccharides (8,18)

  • California poppy recipe

    California poppy tincture (using the whole fresh plant)

    It is always preferable to use plants harvested from intentional cultivation, and not to harvest wild specimens in order to protect local habitats. If there is an abundance however, they can be foraged from the wild, as long as some plant specimens are left to remain. Try to harvest when there are a combination of flowers and seed heads on the plant.

    Ingredients

    • 1 litre 45% vodka 
    • 300 g california poppy (fresh or dried)
    • 2.4 litre kilner jar

    How to make a California poppy tincture

    • Gently shake the aerial parts free of bugs and dust, and rinse the roots well if using them too.
    • Cut into smallish chunks and put into a clean, wide-necked kilner jar gently packing down the herb and covering it with vodka so all the plant material is submerged. 
    • Leave for a month, stirring the mixture once or twice daily.
    • Strain through a double layer of muslin and squeeze the plant material well to get as much liquid out as possible.
    • Try drop doses of between 40–80 drops (2–4 ml) either straight onto the tongue or diluted in a little water. Maximum daily dose: 6 ml of a 1:3 tincture.

    This recipe is a 1:3, however more vodka may be required to top up the herb and it may end up being a 1:5 depending on how much extra liquid has been added.

A beginner’s guide to growing medicinal herbs

A beginner’s guide to growing medicinal herbs

  • Safety

    There is a lack of reliable information for the use of California poppy in pregnancy and lactation and, therefore, it should be avoided and only taken under the guidance of a medical herbalist (19). 

    It is wise to be very cautious when treating children with analgesic doses of this herb, (which tend to be higher than those that reduce anxiety). Use for the shortest possible time on the lowest effective dose for pain and titrate upwards incrementally in both the treatment of children and adults (1,4,5). If in doubt, seek the guidance of a qualified medical herbalist.

  • Interactions

    Theoretically, the alkaloids in California poppy may inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes; however, no interactions have yet been observed clinically and reported (3,18). 

    California poppy has additive effects when used in conjunction with central nervous system (CNS) depressants (1,19).  It also may bind to the same receptors as those targeted by certain antidepressants (SSRIs or MAO inhibitors), so caution is advised in these cases (19).

  • Contraindications

    None known (2,9,18)

  • Sustainability status of california poppy

    California poppy is classed as ‘secure’ on NatureServe Explorer, and is currently not listed on the IUCN Redlist (20,21). 

    However, they state that the bigger threat to this plant is the genetic contamination of wild populations. This, coupled with the encroachment of human activities on the historic native habitat of this species is resulting in a largescale, human induced transformation in the distribution and genetic composition of this species (21,22).

    Plant Serve also states that focusing on identifying and delineating good quality, native populations of this plant in its native habitats are some of the efforts needed to conserve the genetic strength of this species. They also state ‘a conservation strategy should be developed to maintain some such high-quality occurrences in which the gene pool appears to be relatively undiluted by introduced stock, and in which the species is occupying its historic habitat’ (21).

    Read our article on Herbal quality & safety: What to know before you buy and Sustainable sourcing of herbs to learn more about what to look for and questions to ask suppliers about sustainability.

  • Quality control

    California poppy is best used fresh as opposed to dried herb form to maximise the benefits from its constituents. It may also be tinctured from fresh herb as long as the alcohol percentage is high enough to account for the water content (22).

Related herbs

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Skullcap

Corydalis (Corydalis yanhusuo)

Corydalis

Related conditions

Sciatica

Sciatica

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Aromatic
An ‘aromatic’ remedy, high in volatile essential oils, was most often associated with calming and sometimes ‘warming’ the digestion. Most kitchen spices and herbs have this quality: they were used both as flavouring and to ease the digestion of sometimes challenging pre-industrial foods. Many aromatics are classed as ‘carminatives’ and are used to reduce colic, bloating and agitated digestion. They also often feature in respiratory remedies for colds, chest and other airway infections. They are also classic calming inhalants and massage oils, and are the basis of aromatherapy for their mental benefits.
Astringent
The astringent taste you get with many plants (the most familiar is black tea after being stewed too long, or some red wines) is produced by complex polyphenols such as tannins. Tannins are used in concentrated form (e.g. from oak bark) to make leather from animal skins. The process of ‘tanning’ involves the coagulation of relatively fluid proteins in living tissues into tight clotted fibres (similar to the process of boiling an egg). Tannins in effect turn exposed surfaces on the body into leather. In the case of the lining of mouth and upper digestive tract this is only temporary as new mucosa are replenished, but in the meantime can calm inflamed or irritated surfaces. In the case of open wounds tannins can be a life-saver – when strong (as in the bark of broadleaved trees) they can seal a damaged surface. One group of tannins, the reddish-brown ‘condensed tannins’ are procyanidins, which can reduce inflammation and oxidative damage.
Bitter
Bitters are a very complex group of phytochemicals that stimulate the bitter receptors in the mouth. They were some of the most valuable remedies in ancient medicine. They were experienced as stimulating appetite and switching on a wide range of key digestive functions, including increasing bile clearance from the liver (as bile is a key factor in bowel health this can be translated into improving bowel functions and the microbiome). Many of these reputations are being supported by new research on the role of bitter receptors in the mouth and elsewhere round the body. Bitters were also seen as ‘cooling’ reducing the intensity of some fevers and inflammatory diseases.
Bland
Blandness refers to a mild, plain, non-stimulating taste and an energetic action that neither irritates nor strongly activates physiological processes. In traditional Chinese medicine, bland substances gently drain dampness and promote urination, relieving excess fluid whilst also preserving qi and yin. Western traditional medicine similarly associates healing with bland substances that avoid extremes of heat or cold and promote restoration of balance. Blandness signifies regulation by supporting elimination and normal tissue function without forceful stimulation, helping to create a gentle and balanced state of homeostasis.
Cooling
Traditional ‘cold’ or cooling’ remedies often contain bitter phytonutrients such a iridoids (gentian), sesiquterpenes (chamomile), anthraquinones (rhubarb root), mucilages (marshmallow), some alkaloids and flavonoids. They tend to influence the digestive system, liver and kidneys. Cooling herbs do just that; they diffuse, drain and clear heat from areas of inflammation, redness and irritation. Sweet, bitter and astringent herbs tend to be cooling.
Hot

Traditional ‘hot’ or ‘heating’ remedies, often containing spice ingredients like capsaicin, the gingerols (ginger), piperine (black or long pepper), curcumin (turmeric) or the sulfurous isothiocyanates from mustard, horseradish or wasabi, generate warmth when taken.

In modern times this might translate as thermogenic and circulatory stimulant effects. There is evidence of improved tissue blood flow with such remedies: this would lead to a reduction in build-up of metabolites and tissue damage.

Heating remedies were used to counter the impact of cold, reducing any symptoms made worse in the cold.

Mucilaginous
Mucilages are complex carbohydrate based plant constituents with a slimy or ‘unctuous’ feel especially when chewed or macerated in water. Their effect is due simply to their physical coating exposed surfaces. From prehistory they were most often used as wound remedies for their soothing and healing effects on damaged tissues. Nowadays they are used more for these effects on the digestive lining, from the throat to the stomach, where they can relieve irritation and inflammation such as pharyngitis and gastritis. Some of the prominent mucilaginous remedies like slippery elm, aloe vera and the seaweeds can be used as physical buffers to reduce the harm and pain caused by reflux of excess stomach acid. Mucilages are also widely used to reduce dry coughing. Here the effect seems to be by reflex through embryonic nerve connections: reduced signals from the upper digestive wall appear to translate as reduced activity of airway muscles and increased activity of airway mucus cells. Some seed mucilages, such as in psyllium seed, flaxseed (linseed) or guar bean survive digestion to provide bulking laxative effects in the bowel. These can also reduce rate of absorption of sugar and cholesterol.
Neutral
Neutral herbs are characterised as by balanced temperature and energetics — neither warming nor cooling, nor strongly dispersing nor consolidating, and are, therefore, used across a wide spectrum of constitutional and pathological states. In Chinese medicine, this level, calm quality supports the centre, and gently strengthens digestion, regulates fluids, and resolves damp without provoking too much heat or cold. In Western medicine, neutral herbs are regarded as equal in relation to hot/cold or damp/dry and capable of maintaining a state of equilibrium. Neutral herbs can be seen as moderating reactivity, and supporting homeostasis rather than forcing change.
Pungent
The pungent flavour refers to the powerful taste of hot spices including mustard (Brassica spp.), ginger (Zingiber officinale), horseradish (Amoracia rusticana), chilli (Capsicum spp.), and garlic (Allium sativum). These herbs act to enliven and invigorate the senses, and they often also have heating qualities. Unlike other tastes, the effect is not linked to a specific receptor on the tongue and instead acts through direct irritation of tissues and nerve endings. Energetically, pungent herbs are known to disperse energy (qi) throughout the body. Pharmacologically, pungent herbs dry excess moisture and mucus, as well as stimulate digestion and metabolism.
Resinous
Resins are most familiar as tacky discharges from pine trees (and as the substance in amber, and rosin for violin bows). They were most valued however as the basis of ancient commodities like frankincense and myrrh (two of the three gifts of the Three Wise Men to the baby Jesus) and getting access to their source was one benefit to Solomon for marrying the Queen of Sheba (now Ethiopia). Resins were the original antiseptic remedies, ground and applied as powders or pastes to wounds or inflamed tissues, and were also used for mummification. With alcohol distillation it was found that they could be dissolved in 90% alcohol and in this form they remain a most powerful mouthwash and gargle, for infected sore throats and gum disease. They never attracted much early research interest because they permanently coat expensive glassware! For use in the mouth, gums and throat hey are best combined with concentrated licorice extracts to keep the resins in suspension and add extra soothing properties. It appears that they work both as local antiseptics and by stimulating white blood cell activity under the mucosal surface. They feel extremely effective!
Salty
The salty flavour is immediately distinctive. A grain dropped onto the tongue is instantly moistening and a sprinkle on food enkindles digestion. This easily recognisable flavour has its receptors right at the front of the tongue. The salty flavor creates moisture and heat, a sinking and heavy effect which is very grounding for the nervous system and encourages stability. People who are solid and reliable become known as ‘the salt of the earth'.
Sharp
The sharp taste of some fruits, and almost all unripe fruits, as well as vinegar and fermented foods, is produced by weak acids (the taste is generated by H+ ions from acids stimulating the sour taste buds). Sour taste buds are hard-wired to generate immediate reflex responses elsewhere in the body. Anyone who likes the refreshing taste of lemon or other citrus in the morning will know that one reflex effect is increased saliva production. Other effects are subjective rather than confirmed by research but there is a consistent view that they include increased digestive activity and contraction of the gallbladder.
Sour
The sour taste occurs because of the stimulation of hydrogen ions which trigger the sour taste receptors on the tongue. The more acidic a substance, the more hydrogen ions will be released. The sour taste comes from acidic substances including citrus, fermented foods, tannins, and vinegars. Sour foods and herbs absorb excess moisture, whilst also increasing the production of saliva. Energetically, sour substances tonify the lungs, playing a role in disease prevention. Excessive use, however, can result in malabsorption of nutrients. Examples of sour herbs include, rosehips (Rosa canina), raspberry (Rubus idaeus), rhubarb (Rheum palmatum), schisandra (Schisandra chinensis), hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba).
Sweet
In the days when most people never tasted sugar, ‘sweetness’ was associated with the taste of basic foods: that of cooked vegetables, cereals and meat. In other words sweet was the quality of nourishment, and ‘tonic’ remedies. Describing a remedy as sweet generally led to that remedy being used in convalescence or recovery from illness. Interestingly, the plant constituents most often found in classic tonics like licorice, ginseng are plant steroids including saponins, which also have a sweet taste.
Umami
The umami taste was originally discovered in 1985 in Japan and is directly translated from the Japanese as a ‘pleasant savoury taste’. It is referred to as the ‘fifth taste’ and is a salty, rich, and meaty flavour. The umami flavour is produced by amino acids (glutamic acid and aspartic acid) found in many food and plant sources including tomatoes, mushrooms, seaweeds and soy-based foods. Umami foods can improve nutritional absorption and digestion as there are also umami receptors in the gut as well as the mouth. Examples of umami herbs include green tea (Camellia sinensis), reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), nettle (Urtica dioica), cordyceps (Ophiocordyceps sinensis), shitake (Lentinula edodes) and bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus).

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