Health Benefits of Edible Flowers

NAOMI CALL, Founder of Alchemy Farms in Maple City, MI

CALENDULA

Often considered one of the top medicinal flowers, Calendula’s bright petals have been used in traditional and Ayurvedic medicine for years. Known especially for treating a wide range of skin conditions topically, research is also confirming Calendula to be helpful in reducing tumor cells in a number of cancers and it is also used for its anti-viral properties.

Petals are plucked and can be sprinkled on a wide variety of savory salads, dishes or desserts. Colors range from vivid oranges and yellows to pastel shades and soft pink.

RED CLOVER

Red clover blossoms are best known for supporting women throughout their ever changing cycles by balancing hormonal shifts and preventing mood swings. The blossoms are rich in isoflavones, which are similar to estrogen. Many women use red clover blossoms in the form of a tea to help ease hot flashes, breast tenderness and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). They are also being used to help prevent or heal a number of other conditions both internally and externally.

The tiny petals can be plucked and sprinkled on a salad or dessert as they have a delicately sweet flavor. Or, the whole blossoms can be dropped into hot water for tea.

LAVENDER

Most people are familiar with the aroma of lavender and it’s soothing and calming effect on the nervous system. It is helpful in alleviating or reducing stress, fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Women often use it for PMS symptoms, and it is very helpful prior to dental treatments, or situations that are anticipated to be stressful.

Lavender oil has antiseptic and antiinflammatory properties and is highly regarded in the skin and beauty industries. It is most commonly used in fragrances, soaps and shampoos. The blossoms can be added to teas or in a wide variety of prepared foods.

BACHELOR BUTTONS

Bachelor buttons, also known as Cornflowers, are high in calcium, folate, ascorbic acid, antioxidants and tannins. This herb comes in a variety of hues from periwinkle to pinks and white.

Cornflower blossoms and leaves are used topically and internally. The medicinal value is primarily as an anti-inflammatory. Taken as an herbal tea, it is known to aid in soothing stomach ulcers, while rinsing the mouth with the tea can be helpful in healing sores or bleeding gums.

The blossoms have also been used as a tonic or bitter, for stimulating the liver and gallbladder. Women have also used cornflowers for menstrual discomforts, vaginal yeast infections and urinary tract infections as the plant has antibiotic and antiseptic qualities.

BASIL BLOSSOMS

Most culinary herbs are used primarily for their leaves, and when the plant goes to blossom we tend to quickly cut it off to promote energy into the leaves. Herbal blossoms hold the flavor of the herb and make a delightfully beautiful addition to any salad or savory dish. This holds true for all common culinary herbs like: oregano, thyme, cilantro and rosemary. Consider allowing some shoots to go to blossom and try them in tea and salads.