Healing Flowers
We all know flowers lift people’s spirits which is why they are such a popular gift. Many of us though don’t realise that species of flowers in our countryside can also actually have healing powers. Scientists in Denmark have found that even the common Daffodil could help treat people with depression.
Some flowers contain a compound that can pass through the brain’s defensive wall which could ultimately lead to a new alternative to mood enhancing drugs. They are already being used in the fight against Alzheimer’s because they contain galantamine, which is a memory aid.
The healing qualities of flowers can be followed back in history to the romans and ancient Egyptians who used flowers for their healing powers. Flowers are more than just a decoration. For example marigolds are known as the mother of healing plants. Marigolds bloom in summer and have thrived in Britain since the roman times. The romans would use them to cure toothache as they act as a natural antiseptic.
Honeysuckle is another flower that is traditionally used for anti-inflammatory and an anti-bacterial treatment. In China it is one of the most important flowers for eliminating toxins from the body. The flowers are traditionally made into syrup and used for bad coughs and asthma.
Elderflower is another flowers said to help the body cleanse toxins. It does this by encouraging sweating and clearing mucus. Herbalists use the flower to reduce the effects of seasonal allergies and to ease colds and fevers.
The sunflower is bursting with health benefits, not only can you eat the seeds which are packed with healthy vitamins and minerals sunflowers could also be the answer to various itchy skin conditions including eczema and dermatitis as the flowers contain tiny proteins which play an important part in skin regeneration.
Oil from our favourite summer flower lavender can reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.
The national emblem the rose has a long history in folk remedy. Rose oil nourishes and protects delicate skin. Rose water can be used to treat eye infections, to aid digestion and can be used as a mild antidepressant. Rose hips are a good source of vitamins and in tea can help infections. Rose hips are also thought to be effective in reducing joint pain in those suffering from arthritis.