Flowers are not just pretty to look at, but some of them have healing properties that can benefit women. Medicinal flowers have been used for centuries to alleviate various ailments and promote overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the benefits of some commonly used medicinal flowers and how you can use them in your daily life.
Carnations
Carnations are a popular flower that have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. They are known to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. The medicinal components in carnations include eugenol, which is an antiseptic and anesthetic, and tannins, which have astringent properties that help to reduce inflammation.
In traditional medicine, carnations have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including toothaches, headaches, and fever. They have also been used to help with digestive issues, such as bloating and nausea. Carnations are typically consumed as a tea or applied topically as a salve or poultice. Carnation essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy to alleviate stress and anxiety. You can add a few drops of carnation essential oil to your bath or use it in a diffuser to promote relaxation.
Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant flower that is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. It is also believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. The medicinal components in lavender include linalool, which has sedative properties, and eucalyptol, which is an anti-inflammatory.
In traditional medicine, lavender has been used to help with a variety of ailments, including insomnia, anxiety, and depression. You can add lavender essential oil to your pillow or use it in a diffuser to promote better sleep. It is also believed to have antiseptic properties that help to fight off infections. It is also used in skincare products to treat acne and other skin conditions. Lavender is typically consumed as a tea or used in aromatherapy through essential oils or sachets.
Chamomile
Chamomile flowers are often used in tea to promote relaxation and aid with sleep. The essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy to alleviate anxiety and depression. You can add a few drops of chamomile essential oil to your bath or use it in a diffuser to promote relaxation. They are also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. The medicinal components in chamomile include chamazulene, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and apigenin, which has sedative properties.
In traditional medicine, chamomile has been used to help with a variety of ailments, including digestive issues, menstrual cramps, and anxiety. It is also believed to have antiseptic properties that help to fight off infections. Chamomile is typically consumed as a tea, but can also be used topically as a compress or added to bath water.
Echinacea
Echinacea flowers are commonly used in herbal remedies to boost the immune system and fight off infections. The medicinal components in echinacea include echinacoside, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and alkamides, which stimulate the immune system. Although there are several other medicinal compounds, including polysaccharides, glycoproteins, and caffeic acid derivatives, which have been found to have immunostimulatory effects, as well.
In traditional medicine, echinacea has been used to help with a variety of ailments, including the common cold, flu, and infections. It is best taken before you are sick, so if you notice people near you are feeling sick it’s best to start taking it right away! It is typically consumed as a tea, tincture, or taken in supplement form.
Calendula
Calendula flowers are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, and are often used in salves and ointments to promote healing of minor cuts and wounds. Calendula contains several compounds, including triterpenoids, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antioxidant effects. Additionally, calendula contains saponins, which have cleansing and astringent properties that can help to soothe and tighten irritated skin.
In traditional medicine, calendula has been used to help with a variety of skin issues, including rashes, burns, and eczema. It is typically used topically as a salve or added to bath water. You can also make your own calendula salve by infusing the flowers in oil and mixing it with beeswax.
Roses
While roses are typically used for their aesthetic appeal, they also have medicinal properties. Rose petals are known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, and are often used in skincare products for their hydrating and anti-aging benefits. Roses contain several compounds, including phenolics, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which have been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, rose petals contain tannins, which have astringent properties that can help to soothe and tighten irritated skin.
Traditionally, you can make your own rosewater by steeping rose petals in boiling water and using it as a toner or facial mist. Rose oil can also be added to your bath or diffuser to promote relaxation.
So, if you get a bouquet of any of these flowers this Mother’s Day, consider it a gift that keeps giving and using them medicinally! Medicinal flowers have been used for centuries to alleviate various ailments and promote overall well-being. Incorporating these flowers into your daily routine can have numerous health benefits. From reducing stress and anxiety to promoting better sleep and boosting the immune system, medicinal flowers are a natural and effective way to support your health. Try using these flowers in aromatherapy, tea, skincare, or even as a decorative element in your home. You can find many of these flowers at your local florist or online, and they are often available in essential oil or supplement form as well.