Compound Monograph
Californidine
Californidine is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid characteristic of the California poppy.
Classification
Californidine is a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, part of the alkaloids class. Nitrogen-containing, often bitter and physiologically potent compounds — the group behind many of the strongest plant medicines and poisons.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
Californidine is a naturally occurring benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, found in California poppy. It is flagged as moderately toxic.
Research & Evidence
Californidine is a quaternary benzylisoquinoline (pavine-type) alkaloid and one of the characteristic alkaloids of the California poppy (Eschscholzia californica), a plant used traditionally as a mild sedative and sleep aid. It is often cited alongside eschscholtzine and other poppy alkaloids when the plant’s gentle calming reputation is discussed, although the contribution of any single alkaloid is not clearly established.
Toxicity & Safety
California poppy is generally regarded as mild and is not an opium poppy, but its alkaloids are pharmacologically active and the plant is usually avoided in pregnancy and combined cautiously with sedative medications. The isolated safety profile of californidine has not been well characterised.