‘A thing of beauty is a joy forever’ said John Keats. Flowers not only give happiness and joy to the senses but also health to the body. We all appreciate the beauty, the vibrant colours, and the aesthetic appeal of flowers. What most of us are unaware of, is that they also contribute to our health in various ways. Research has shown that flowers have a positive impact on the emotional health of a person. Flowers have been known to improve the overall quality of life, by reducing stress and anxiety. Flowers inspire creativity and make people happier. There are a lot of flowers that are edible and are good for health. We must remember though, that not all flowers are edible.
- Roses are used in beverages to help people who suffer from irritable bowel disease, gall bladder and liver problems. Rose petals tea is prized for eliminating stress and headaches, treating depression, insomnia and other nervous disorders.
- Marigold petals are healing because of its antiseptic and antifungal properties. A cold compress soaked in an infusion made from marigold and rose petals, is particularly soothing for headaches.
- Viola odorata (Neelapushpa in sanskrit) when crushed and boiled in a cup of milk, relieves the pain and swelling of inflamed tonsils.
- Neem flowers are very good for intestinal worms. Flowers of the flame of the forest tree, when steamed, mashed and applied on a boil heals it.
- Ground tamarind flowers make excellent anti – perspirants.
- Fresh jasmine flower paste is a soothing salve for psoriasis.
- Chamomile blossoms are said to be good for kidneys, spleen, colds, bronchitis, bladder troubles and for sores and wounds.
- The milk from the cut end of the dandelion is said to help get rid of warts. Dandelions infusions are used to treat anaemia and even jaundice.
- The juice of chrysanthemums cures cold and fever.
- Lotus is known to be an antioxidant
- Sunflowers are used to treat ulcers.
- The hibiscus is known to be good for the heart and for the skin and hair.
- Carnation petals can be brewed to make a tea to reduce anxiety, agitation, stress and fatigue. It also has a soothing effect on the skin.
Click on the links below to know more about the health benefits of these flowers and how you can use them in your day-to-day life.
Dandelion health benefits and home remedies
Dandelion is an excellent herb to use to prevent UTIs and is a home remedy for urethritis. It is also used to treat jaundice, gallstones, and hepatitis. It is full of vitamins and minerals and trace elements that are optimal for humans.
Periwinkle health benefits and home remedies
There are different shades of periwinkle, but the pink and white varieties are the ones used for medicinal purposes. Used for the treatment of diabetes, Alzheimer’s’ and leukemia, the list of health benefits of this small flower goes on and on.
Chrysanthemum Health benefits and home remedies
Chrysanthemum is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and fever-reducing properties. It is good for the heart, blood pressure, diabetes, and upper respiratory tract. The best way is to have chrysanthemum in the form of tea.
Rose health benefits and home remedies
Rosa centifolia, also called cabbage rose is known for its fragrance and healing powers. It has astringent and anti-inflammatory properties and hence is used in a number of cosmetic and skincare products.
Hibiscus health benefits and home remedies
Hibiscus rosa sinensis has been used in Siddha medicine for centuries. Being a natural source of vitamin C, it is very good for the skin and hair. It is considered a laxative and a blood purifier.
Marigold health benefits and home remedies
Marigold is very versatile and is used widely in ointments and creams and many DIY products. The calendula marigold has massive health benefits, for the skin, sunburn, body odour, and psoriasis.
Jasmine health benefits and home remedies
Jasmine has a heavenly fragrance and was used as a stimulant and aphrodisiac by the Greeks and Egyptians. In Ayurveda, the leaves and flowers are used for treating and preventing breast cancer and uterine bleeding.
Calendula Health benefits and remedies
The flower contains many different antioxidant groups including lutein, lycopene, beta-carotene, quercetin, and a host of others. The use of this flower in an extract or oil could benefit the skin, nervous system, and mucous membranes.