5 Medicinal Flowers and Their Healing Properties
In our modern world, the appeal of medicinal plants is undiminished, with their roots deeply embedded in both traditional and modern medicine. For instance, the World Health Organization (WHO) has acknowledged that, as of the early 21st century, about 11% of essential drugs are plant-derived. Medicines like aspirin and morphine and liver-protective compounds like silymarin trace their origins to plant compounds, showcasing the vast healing potential nature holds.
With their vibrancy and beauty, flowers often serve as ornamental additions to our surroundings. However, some flowers go beyond visual appeal, offering significant medicinal benefits. Five such flowers are known for their therapeutic properties across various cultures and generations. Read on to know.
Five Medicinal Flowers and Their Healing Properties
1. Calendula: Nature’s Skin Healer
Calendula, commonly known as marigold, is a vibrant yellow-orange flower frequently found in gardens. Calendula officinalis and Calendula resina are the primary species used for medicinal purposes. This flower is edible and often added to salads as a garnish, but its most potent effect lies in its ability to heal skin tissues.
Calendula acts as a vulnerary, meaning it aids in tissue healing, especially for chronic skin conditions. It can be infused into oils to create a salve or lotion that soothes dry, irritated skin. Additionally, calendula has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective for minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. Herbalists recommend choosing calendula blooms with a sticky texture, as they’re believed to possess the highest medicinal properties.
2. Echinacea: The Immune Booster
Echinacea, also known as coneflower, is a popular garden plant that attracts pollinators with its bright, daisy-like blooms. Apart from its ornamental value, Echinacea purpurea, the most medicinally potent variety, has long been celebrated for its immune-boosting properties. Traditionally used by Native American tribes, echinacea has been trusted to combat cold and flu symptoms by modulating the immune system.
The flower is typically tinctured, meaning it’s soaked in alcohol to create a concentrated, shelf-stable medicine. This tincture is used as a preventive remedy during cold and flu seasons, helping ward off viral infections. Echinacea’s effects extend beyond immunity; some reports suggest it was historically used for treating snake bites. However, modern medical advice strongly recommends seeking immediate medical attention in such situations.
3. Rose: Astringent (tissue-constrictor) and Anti-inflammatory
Roses, particularly petals and fruit (rose hips), are highly valued in traditional medicine for their skin-healing and mood-enhancing properties. Roses contain natural astringents that help tighten tissues, making them a popular choice for skincare products. Rose-infused water, oil, or toner has been used as a gentle skin toner that refreshes and hydrates the skin.
The essential oil extracted from roses is known to uplift moods and is often used in aromatherapy for its calming effects. Rose hips, the fruit of the rose plant, are rich in Vitamin C and can be used to make tea that alleviates seasonal allergies. When using rose hips, ensure they’re from untreated plants, as commercial roses often contain pesticides and other chemicals harmful to consume.
4. Chamomile: The Gentle Healer
Chamomile, with its small, daisy-like appearance, is celebrated for its gentle yet effective healing properties. Often associated with sleep and relaxation, chamomile is much more than a bedtime tea. It’s an anti-inflammatory herb that addresses various health issues, from gastrointestinal discomfort to skin irritation. The main chemical responsible for the calming effect in chamomile is Apigenin, which acts on the same brain receptors your anti-anxiety medications work on.
Chamomile is a natural, mild sleep-inducer that calms the nerves to battle anxiety and helps digestion. It can be consumed as a tea or applied topically to soothe inflamed skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for managing mild eczema and skin rashes. Furthermore, chamomile is helpful for digestive ailments, such as bloating and gas, offering a mild and safe alternative for individuals with sensitive digestive systems.
5. Lavender: The Stress-Reliever
A flower with striking purple blooms, Lavender, has been adored for its calming and therapeutic qualities for many years. Known primarily as an aid for relaxation, lavender is frequently used in essential oils, teas, and even culinary dishes. It’s a natural remedy for anxiety, insomnia, and tension headaches. So, if you want to get a break from stress, try applying lavender oil on your temples or adding a few drops to a warm bath.
Beyond its calming properties, lavender has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects, making it suitable for mild skin irritations, acne, and insect bites. Lavender oil, when applied topically, helps soothe minor burns and insect bites and acts as a mild insect repellent. Adding a small amount of lavender to a bedtime tea can improve sleep quality, making it a cherished flower for holistic wellness.
Do Kratom Flowers have medicinal properties?
While technically, the leaves of the Bentuangie Kratom Strain plant hold its active properties, the flower of this tropical plant represents its growing medicinal potential in the West. Known scientifically as Mitragyna speciosa, kratom has been traditionally used in Southeast Asia to ease pain, boost energy, and help manage uneasiness. Recent studies from Johns Hopkins Medicine indicate that kratom may have a relatively lower rate of harm compared to substances, especially in discomfort management. However, as the FDA doesn’t regulate the plant, experts advocate for careful use and further study to understand its benefits and risks better.
Conclusion
Medicinal flowers offer a fascinating glimpse into nature’s pharmacy, where beauty and healing meet. Calendula, echinacea, rose, and chamomile each provide a unique set of benefits, serving as natural remedies for various ailments. However, while these flowers are generally safe, consulting a healthcare provider before incorporating them into your regimen is wise, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or on medications. Embracing these flowers in a balanced way can add both beauty and healing to our lives, bridging the age-old practices of traditional medicine with our contemporary well-being needs. However, Kratom, with its flowers explicitly, doesn’t show the same effects as its leaves, but fingers are crossed for future discoveries.