All posts by Florist Ephy

Peperomia pellucida, commonly known as shiny bush is considered a miraculous plant due to its many uses

The Miraculous Shiny Bush Plant

January 18, 2021

Peperomia pellucida, commonly known as the shiny bush, pepper elder, silverbush, and greenhouse tea plant, or slate pencil plant, is a fleshy annual flowering plant belonging to the piperaceae family.

It is native to the Americas and Asia but has spread to other regions of the world due to its popularity as an indoor ornamental plant. The plant is not fussy and can thrive under partial shade or artificial light. This makes it ideal for planting at home in containers and offices. Though the plant requires moist soil to thrive, you should avoid watering it too often as it detests soggy soil.

The plant thrives in tropical habitats and prefers shaded, damp places. You are likely to find it growing in wastelands, by the roadsides and other disturbed sites, preferably away from direct sunlight.

The shiny bush plant has light green, fleshy, shiny leaves with a smooth waxy appearance. It produces small, light green flowers that grow from the plant’s cord-like spikes around the leaves. The flowers normally appear during spring but the plant can flower throughout the year in moderate climates.

Apart from its ornamental value, the shiny bush is used for herbal and food purposes. The leaves, flowers, and tender stems are cooked and eaten as vegetable greens or utilized in salads. These are highly popular in the African, South American, and Asian cuisines. The shiny bush has a strong mustardy smell and a crunchy texture.

The plant’s aerial parts are crushed to extract its juices, which are applied to inflamed eyes. The extract is also used internally to treat coughs, headaches, kidney problems, sore throats, and prostrate conditions. The leaves, when blanched or steamed and allowed to cool down sufficiently, are topically applied over shallow wounds to reduce pain and inflammation.

The whole plant is also crushed to form a poultice for dressing fresh wounds or made into an infusion, which is used to calm down fevers. In Brazil, an infusion of the plant is used to lower cholesterol, while in other regions it is used to treat fatigue and gout.

The pepper elder is so popular as a herbal plant in Asia that it is among the top ten plants recognized in the Philippines for medicinal purposes. Its popularity and wide usage as a medicinal herb are what make people refer to it as a miracle plant.

If you are a lazy plant enthusiast, a highly versatile ornamental plant that is easy to grow in your yard, balcony, or study room, yet potent enough to give you herbal benefits, is your best bet. And you can eat it too.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Celosia is beautiful, medicinal and edible

Colorful, Edible and Medicinal Celosia

January 10, 2021

Celosia, commonly known as woolflowers, quail grass, and Lagos spinach, is a small genus of flowering plants in the amaranth family. These plants commonly occur in the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. In North America, the plants occur as perennials in the U.S Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 to 12 and annuals in zones 2 to 9.

Celosia prefers growing in full sun but will tolerate partial shade in dry areas. It does not tolerate wet conditions or water-logged soil but prefers well-drained areas. The plant is highly resistant to most pests and diseases, not to mention it is not fussy. It is an excellent hands-off plant and a godsend for gardeners because it does not require lots of attention.

In summer, the plant produces fiery plume-like flowers in shades of yellow, red, orange, or scarlet, which brings a lot of color to your flower or vegetable garden.

There are about three broad types of celosia: plumed (celosia plumosa) feature feathery blossoms that look like flames, while wheat (celosia spicata) bear white-like flowers. Cockscomb or crested (celosia cristata) have brain-like flowers that resemble the comb on a chicken head.

Though celosia is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant in North America, in some places such as Africa it is grown as a vegetable green. As an ornamental plant, celosia flowers can be used in the flower industry when fresh or dry. When used as a cut flower, the bright blossoms last for days in a flower vase.

All the aerial parts of celosia are edible. The flowers, tender leaves, and stems are often steamed, boiled, or stir-fried and eaten like any other vegetable greens. Alternatively, they can be mixed with other vegetables in stews and soups and eaten with staples such as corn, cassava, yam, rice, and rice. Celosia is known to contain calcium, phosphorus, protein, and vitamins A and C, as well as iron, making it a highly nutritious food source.

Apart from its use in the flower industry and for food purposes, celosia is said to have medicinal properties. Indigenous tribes in Africa such as the Masaai of East Africa extract juices from its flowers and leaves and use them as a body wash to speed up recovery from various ailments. They also use the crushed aerial parts of the plant to treat gonorrhea, snakebites, and eczema. In Asian countries, the flowers and leaves are used to treat menstruation problems, dysentery, and wounds.

Celosia is an interesting, hardy, multipurpose plant that you should consider growing in your yard.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food, Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Radish, a Nutritional Power House

December 19, 2020

Raphanus sativus, commonly known as radish or humble mooli, is a biennial or annual flowering plant in the brassicaceae family. It is closely related to cauliflower, kale, and broccoli. Unlike its close relatives, the radish is mainly grown for its succulent tuber or taproot.

Radish is said to have originated from China centuries ago. The plant is a highly popular food crop in China along with soybean curd and cabbage. There, humble mooli is so highly regarded as a superfood that a common Chinese proverb says “eating pungent radish and drinking hot tea, let the starved doctors beg on their knees.”

With time, the popularity of the plant helped it spread to other regions of the world. This explains why it is found in most kitchen gardens, flower gardens, and farms around the globe. Radishes are easy to grow and are considered ideal for beginners as they require minimal care and grow quite fast. Radish got its common name from the Latin word radix, while its genus name, raphanus, is derived from ancient Greek, meaning “easy reared.”

Radish tubers are commonly eaten in salads, boiled or pickled in brine, or fermented. When pickled or fermented, they take on a yellow tinge which some people find unattractive. However, in spite of their unattractive color when pickled or fermented, they are highly delicious and nutritious.

Currently, there are several radish cultivars. While some thrive during winter, others do better in summer or spring. Growers normally categorize them according to color, shape, and size.

Radish has a pungent flavor due to a naturally occurring compound known as isothiocyanate.
The pungency varies with the isothiocyanate level in the variety. While white radishes are normally mild, the red variety has a hotter flavor.

Humble mooli produces flowers with four petals resembling a Greek cross. The blossoms feature a green stem and four yellow stamens. Petals range from white to purple, but in some instances, they have both colors which add to their aesthetic value.

The flowers are great for adding to salads, grains, or garnishing soups. When sliced and mixed with butter or cheese, they make ideal spreads for crackers or bread. You can also use them to garnish frittatas or stir-fry them.

While radishes are not necessarily the most popular vegetables in the world, they are among the healthiest, which explains why they are considered superfoods. These undervalued plants are a great source of vitamin C. This is an antioxidant that helps the body combat free radicals in the body and assists in collagen production. They also contain sufficient levels of fiber, which is important for bowel movement, and potassium, which is critical for the proper functioning of muscles.

The radish may be a common plant in flower gardens, kitchen gardens, and farms the world over, but it is a high-value superfood you want in your corner.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Grow Your Cannas and Eat Them Too

December 8, 2020

Canna plant, also known as canna lily (it is not a true lily) is a perennial, rhizomatous, flowering tropical herb. It is native to the tropical regions of North and South America. In its natural habitat, the canna plant occurs in damp places along the banks of rivers and along rivers.

The canna lily is highly forgiving and is considered a low maintenance ornamental that will give color and foliage to your garden without asking for much in return. Ideally, it should grow in places with full sunlight and plenty of warmth. However, it can tolerate partial shade but is not likely to produce showy flowers compared to when grown in full sunlight. And while canna prefers moist conditions, it can thrive in well-drained soil as long as the soil has rich organic matter.

Canna lily foliage resembles banana leaves. The two plants are closely related and share many similarities. Most of the time, the color of the foliage depends on the cultivar and may vary from maroon to bronze and green.

In summer, it produces large flowers that resemble the iris plant flowers. The flowers range from orange to red and orange. The bold flowers are short-lived and only open for a day before closing the shop to give way to fruits.

Canna is not just a lovely ornamental plant but also a valuable source of food. Historical records show that people have been eating cannas for as far back as the Indians of the Andes. While all canna species are edible, some are considered better for food purposes compared to others. Canna lily species that are considered ideal for eating have larger and thicker rhizomes or tubes compared to the tough and wiry varieties.

The most popular canna species used for food purposes is canna edulis. In South America, it is commonly known as achira and is considered a superfood. If you travel to Peru or Vietnam, you are likely to find canna tubers on sale in the fresh produce market because the plant is a starch staple there.

All parts of the canna plant from the flowers to the roots are used for food purposes. The leaves are great for wrapping burritos while the flowers can be used for garnishing. The rhizomes are dried and crushed or ground into flour which is considered an ideal substitute for people experiencing gluten intolerance. The rhizomes or tubers are also boiled or baked and eaten just like potatoes. Canna tuber skins are usually tough so, unlike potatoes, they require more time to cook. When they are thoroughly cooked, the tubers are soft just like well-done potatoes and their skins come off easily, unlike when they are raw.

Now you know that canna lilies are not just for decorative purposes in your garden, you can eat them too.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Its Time For Honesty

November 25, 2020

Lunaria annua, also known as common honesty, honesty, money plant, garden honesty, moonwort, or silver dollar plant, is a fast-growing biennial plant native to southwest Asia and the Balkans, but which has spread and naturalized in regions with a temperate climate. It is a member of the brassica family and closely related to cabbages.

Honesty thrives in moist, fertile, well-drained soil. It can grow in partial shade or full sun. However, it produces more flowers in the sun compared to in the shade. In the language of flowers, moonwort represents sincerity, money, and honesty.

The plant’s Latin name, lunaria, means moon-shaped, in reference to its fruit, while the name honesty seems to be related to the translucency of the seed pods. Silver dollar has a hairy stem with medium green leaves resembling a heart or oval-shaped. They also feature pointed, serrated tips.

Garden honesty is commonly found in old-fashioned cottage gardens but some have escaped from gardens and thrive in the wild. Today, it is common to find common honesty growing along footpaths, in hedgerows, and abandoned fields. Unlike most flowering plants, the plant is more popular for its seeds compared to its flowers.

Moonwort produces flat, papery, translucent pods which enclose dark seeds. The seeds are commonly used in dried floral arrangements while still in their pods. Alternatively, the pods are left on the plant to add aesthetic appeal to gardens in the winter.

Common honesty flowers in spring or early summer. The flowers are highly attractive and often used in the cut flower industry. Their sweet scent also attracts insects to pollinate the flowers.

The flowers have four petals and come in various shades, depending on the cultivar, ranging from white to purple. Garden honesty is highly popular among gardeners because it is hardy, requires watering only once a week, and is a multipurpose plant.

Moonwort’s leaves, flowers, and seeds are edible. The leaves are collected especially when tender and cooked as green vegetables. Alternatively, they can be used in salads.

The flowers can also be eaten as vegetable greens, added to salads, or used for garnishing. Moonwort’s leaves and flowers have a cabbage-like taste. The seeds can be used as a mustard substitute and taste like mustard.

If you love multi-purpose floral plants and you happen to be a lazy gardener who prefers plants that are not fussy, common honesty is the plant you need to have in your garden.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Hoodia cacti also known as hoodia gordoni acts as a hunger and thirst suppressant

Hoodia Gordonii For Hunger and Thirst Suppression

November 14, 2020

Hoodia gordonii, commonly known as bushman’s hat, hoodia cacti, or just hoodia, is a spiny, succulent, cactus-like plant native to the desert region of Southern Africa. It occurs naturally in Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa, but has spread to other regions of the world, including North America, due to their beneficial purposes.

Hoodia cacti grow in clumps of dark-green upright stems. Though normally mistaken for a cactus because it looks like one, hoodia is a succulent plant in the milkweed family.

The plant has been used for food and medicinal purposes by bushmen living in its native region for decades. The bushmen would eat the plant to suppress hunger and thirst during their long hunting or gathering trips.

Though there are more than 20 species of hoodia, only hoodia gordonii seems to have the active steroidal glycoside ingredient known as P57 that suppresses appetite. Traditionally, bushmen simply cut the plant from the stem, removed the spines, and ate the bitter-tasting plant.

Studies published in 2004 showed that p57 affects the part of the brain that regulates appetite. P57 is said to work by releasing a compound that is similar to glucose. This stimulates the hypothalamus part of the brain responsible for hunger pangs by sending a signal to the hypothalamus indicating that enough food has been eaten and the stomach is full.

The plant has made headlines in the past when 60 Minutes, a CBS news program, sent Lesley Stahl, a reporter to the South African desert to try out the plant as a possible weight-loss herb. After eating the plant, Stahl reported that he did not experience hunger or thirst for about 24 hours. Hoodia became an instant hit with weight watchers. Today, hoodia is available in capsule, powder, pill, or tea form in health stores.

In summer, the bushman’s hat produces peach or pink blossoms featuring red throats. The flowers produce a rotten meat-like scent that attracts flies to pollinate them.

Though hoodia is a tough desert plant and requires very little care, it is very hard to propagate on a large scale away from its natural habitat unless you simulate its natural condition. For it to thrive, it requires sandy soil, plenty of wind, sun, and heat.

However, once you simulate its natural growing conditions, hoodia becomes an easy plant to grow as it requires watering once every 3 months. That means the plant can thrive with just 4 watering cycles in a year. Unfortunately, due to overharvesting from the wild and its slow growth, hoodia is now considered an endangered plant.

Hoodia gordonii does not have much to offer when it comes to aesthetics because its foliage does not look very attractive and the flowers have an unpleasant scent. However, if you can tolerate the rotten scent of its flowers, the bushman’s hat makes a great indoor plant to grow in a pot. Plus you can nibble on the plant when you really need to skip some meals.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

The lily of the Nile has aphrodisiacal properties

The Lily of the Nile: A Beautiful African Aphrodisiac

October 28, 2020

Agapanthus africanus, commonly known as lily of the Nile, African blue lily, agapanthus, and the flower of love, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the agapanthus genus and amaryllidaceae family. Lilies of the Nile are native to the southern part of Africa but have spread to other regions of the world as ornamental plants due to their beautiful blue flowers.

Agapanthus has an interesting side to it: Firstly, it is not a true lily. Secondly, botanists do not seem to decide on its classification. Initially, it was classified as a lily, then changed to the amaryllis and then to the onion family before settling in the amaryllis family. It seems like botanists are still not decided where it belongs.

[Disclaimer: The lily of the Nile contains saponins which might cause irritation in the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.

The plant thrives in full sun in mild climates or partial shade in hotter climates. It has long, pointed leaves sprouting from short rhizomes with fleshy roots. From a distance, the leaves appear to form a leek-like structure at the base of the plant.

During summer, agapanthus produces brightly colored blossoms in umbels on tall stalks. The flowers come in various shades of blue and in some instances, white. These flowers are considered ideal for the cut flower industry as they are not only beautiful but can last for almost two weeks when put in a vase with water.

Apart from their beauty, the flowers of the lily of the Nile are believed to have magical powers and were normally donned to protect against lightning during storms. They are also worn by women to boost fertility and strength. In some parts of Africa, the flowers and leaves are used in herbal preparations to increase libido and virility. That is why the plant is fondly referred to as an African aphrodisiac.

Agapanthus is known to contain anti-fungal properties. The flowers and rhizomes of the plant have been shown to be highly effective in eliminating a fungus that is responsible for causing the Malabar itch. Extracts from these parts have also been shown to be effective against other fungal infections.

Traditionally, the lily of the Nile was used to induce labor. Studies have shown that extracts from aerial parts of the plant trigger smooth muscle contractions in the uterus. As a result, the plant seems to hold a lot of promise in inducing labor. However, these studies are still far from conclusive as they have only been conducted using rats.

The lily of the Nile may not be a true lily and the jury on its classification is still out. But its ornamental value and herbal benefits are not in doubt.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Jade plant is said to attract money and friendship

Want To Attract Money and Friendship? Get The Jade Plant

October 20, 2020

Crassula ovata, commonly known as jade plant, pink joy, jade, happy jade plant, jade tree plant, happiness plant money plant, and lucky plant, is an evergreen plant native to the southern region of Africa. The plant has spread and gained popularity in most parts of the world due to its beauty and versatility making it a perfect houseplant.

[Disclaimer: The jade plant is said to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Pink joy grows like a tiny tree complete with a trunk and branches featuring thick, round, succulent leaves. Jade’s leaves can be dark jade-green when growing in the shade to green with red edges when exposed to full or direct sunlight.

As a houseplant, the jade plant can thrive in direct sunlight, partial shade, or even complete shade under the right conditions. This is part of the reason why it is considered a perfect house plant, as it can thrive in the complete shade as long as it is exposed to sufficient daylight. If the plant is not receiving sufficient sunlight, it starts stretching towards the sun and becomes long which destroys its ornamental value.

The lucky plant is not fussy and does not require intensive care. Unlike most plants that die off due to poor maintenance, jade plant is more likely to die due to excessive watering, or severe frosts. Normally, watering it deeply once a week is enough as long as the soil is not very dry. Here, you are better off erring on the side of irregular watering rather than overwatering it.

Pink joy produces tiny, white, or pink blossoms mostly during winter. When the money plant flowers, it is seen as a positive reflection on the owner symbolizing prosperity, friendship, and luck. The leaves signify hope and energy, and symbolize wealth, as they resemble jade coins.

The money plant is said to attract positive energy, wealth, luck, and friendship. In Asia, it is used as a good luck charm. It also makes for a great gift to business people, and you are likely to see it at the entrance of business premises to help in bringing success. The plant is also used during the New Year celebrations in China where it is placed on top of investment or stock certificates with the aim of increasing their value in the year ahead.

While the plant is more famous for its ornamental value compared to its benefits, the money tree has some herbal benefits. Its leaves and flowers have been used in folk medicine for years. One simple way of harnessing the herbal benefits of the plant is by crushing the flowers and leaves of the plant and applying the poultice over a wart. The topical treatment is repeated for several days until the wart falls off. The jade plant is also used to calm fever and manage diabetes.

So, if you intend to attract positive energy and prosperity, or want Lady Luck to smile on you, get the jade plant.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Scaevola spinescens flower aslo known as currant bush

The Anticancer, Antibacterial and Antiviral Potential of The Currant Bush

October 14, 2020

Currant bush, also known as prickly fan flower, maroon bush, and botanically referred to as scaevola spinescens, is a flowering plant belonging to the goodeniaceae family. It is native to Australia where it has been used as aboriginal medicine for ages.

The prickly fan flower is a hardy, evergreen shrub that closely resembles rosemary. It is commonly found in semi-arid areas and scrublands. The maroon bush is highly tolerant and can withstand drought and mild salinity.

The plant features prickly foliage and produces yellow or cream-colored blossoms in summer. As a herbal remedy, native communities used it to treat various ailments including urinary tract problems, colds, rashes stomach problems and boils. These tribes used the whole plant to treat sores by crushing the leaves, flowers, and stems and steaming them. The physicians would treat the boils by steaming them with the maroon bush vapor.

Alternatively, the crushed aerial parts are steeped in boiling water for about an hour and left to cool down overnight. The concoction is strained, and the debris discarded while the resulting infusion is taken orally to treat various conditions.

In 1946, a cancer patient claimed that he was cured of cancer after ingesting a currant bush infusion. This ignited a lot of interest in the prickly fan flower which was seen as a cure for cancer. For almost half a decade, the maroon bush was hailed as a cure for cancer and physicians generously prescribed the plant’s extracts to cancer patients.

Basically, the active compounds in the maroon bush are phenolic compounds. These compounds give the plant the ability to inhibit the progression of cancer and kill cancer cells because they have antioxidative effects.

In a study published in PubMed Central, researchers sought to investigate the antiviral, and antibacterial ability of the currant bush. Out of the 14 different bacteria tested, the results showed that currant bush extracts were highly effective in inhibiting 6 out of the 14 bacteria. The extracts were shown to inhibit the growth of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In addition, the results indicated that maroon bush extracts had antiviral activity minus toxicity which often results in negative side effects.

Using the above results, researchers concluded that the claims made by the Australian Natives were correct.

While the currant bush is not famous for its flowers, it is still a useful plant due to its herbal properties plus its ability to withstand harsh growing conditions.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Skunk Vine: A Beneficial Plant With A Stinky Name

October 13, 2020

Paederia Foetida, commonly known as skunk vine, stink vine, or Chinese fever vine, is a slender climbing vine that scrambles over other plants for support. It is native to Asia and thrives in temperate and tropical regions. The plant has oblong or ovate leaves that grow opposite each other. Blossoms are lilac or pink with five petals.

The plant was imported from Asia to the US in the 1890s for fiber purposes. But in less than two decades, the plant had become noxious due to its invasive tendencies. By 1916, the vine was already invading hedgerows and colonizing other disturbed places. With such a history, it is important to control the spread of the skunk vine by both chemical and physical methods, plus a lot of patience.

The word paederia is borrowed from the Greek word paederos meaning opals, probably due to some varieties that produce translucent fruits. However, a different school of thought says that paederia is derived from the Latin word paedor meaning stinky, stench, or filth. Meanwhile, foetida is medieval Latin meaning stinky or smelly.

In Japan, they refer to it as fart vine, while in China it is commonly known as chicken shit vine. So much hate for one plant, right? In spite of the bad publicity the plant has received over the years, some people say that its smell is more tolerable compared to Momordica charantia (bitter lemon) or passafloria laurifolia (passionflower).

So, what causes the skunk-like odor of the stinky vine? The odor is attributed to the presence of carbon disulfide ((CS2), a highly volatile compound that is often associated with the bad odor of the plant, and most evident in the leaves. Most people actually become aware of the plant when they break or crush its leaves and they get assaulted by the sulfur-like odor.

In spite of its foul smell and invasive tendencies, the skunk vine has many herbal qualities. The plant is antidiarrhoea, antiviral, anti-tussive, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tussive. Most of the plant’s herbal properties are found in its leaves and flowers. These beneficial compounds include amino acids, sitosterol, carbohydrates, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, alkaloids, glycosides, and volatile oils.

A paste is made by crushing the whole plant, which is then steeped in boiling water, strained to remove debris, and then mixed with sesame oil. The mixture is cooked until it forms a thick paste which is applied externally to relieve muscular pain, neuralgia, and joint pain.

Apart from having medicinal qualities, the skunk vine has been cultivated for ornamental reasons in the past. In full foliage and bloom, especially in summer when it flowers, the plant looks very attractive.

Here is a great plant with many beneficial compounds. However, its invasiveness and skunky odor make it a nuisance to cultivate.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Cucumber Flowers: Fry or Use Them for Garnishing

September 27, 2020

Cucumis sativus, commonly known as the cucumber plant, is an annual flowering plant belonging to the cucurbitaceae family in the cucumis genus. The genus consists of more than 40 species including the popular watermelon and cantaloupe. Cucumber is also known as kiukaba, cetriolo, and pepino.

Kiukaba is thought to have originated in India near the Himalayas region. Other schools of thought claim that it could have originated from Burma where the plant was highly valued for its leaves and fruits. From Asia, cucumber spread to Europe where the Romans and Greeks perfected the art of growing the plant. The cucumber was such a valuable plant to Romans that they used highly sophisticated farming techniques to grow it out of season for Emperor Tiberius.

Christopher Columbus, the Italian navigator, and explorer, is credited with bringing pepino to the Americas alongside other vegetables. With time, cucumber spread to become a global vegetable, growing in most parts of the world.

The cucumber plant has large, rough leaves attached to a creeping hairy vine. The vine has tendrils to help it climb on other plants or structures. Cucumber’s leaves have a triangular shape and usually form a canopy to cover the plant’s flowers and fruits.

This fast-growing plant requires warm weather to thrive and flower. In cold regions or places with short seasons, you need to wait until the warmest time of the year before growing cucumbers. Normally, the plants take 50-60 days from sowing to harvest.

In midsummer, cucumbers produce bright yellow wrinkled blossoms. The plants produce three types of flowers: hermaphrodite flowers with both male and female parts, male flowers and female blossoms. Female flowers feature a large ovary which resembles an immature cucumber fruit while male flowers have a slender stem and contain three stamens.

Normally, cucumber flowers stay up for a day once they open. The males are the first to open and they usually drop off after producing pollen meant for fertilizing the female flowers. Female blossoms may take slightly longer to drop, especially if they are fertilized. However, if they are not fertilized they drop in a day’s time. Fertilized female flowers drop the flower part and the ovary grows into a full-size cucumber, the refreshing superfood enjoyed the world over.

While the cucumber plant is grown mainly for its edible fruits, which are eaten raw or cooked, not many people know that the flowers are edible too.

To maximize on cucumber production, you should consider harvesting the male flowers after manually fertilizing the female flowers by shaking the pollen into them. This ensures that you get your regular supply of cucumber flowers without interfering with the female flowers which will mature to fruits.

Cucumber flowers can be eaten raw or fried. The light and airy blossoms make great garnishing for cocktails and dishes. The flowers are great for adding intensity to dishes and drinks while providing favorable velvety texture and cucumber flavor.

So, is it dinner time? Grab some cucumber flowers and enjoy the crunchy, fluffy delicacy.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Yucca Blossoms: Yes, You Can Eat The Dashing Flowers

September 17, 2020

Yucca filamentosa , commonly known as yucca, is a flowering evergreen shrub in the asparagaceae family. It is native to the dry, hot regions of West Indies and the Americas.
The plant is highly adaptable which has helped it spread to other regions of the world.
Yucca is easy to identify due to its unique rosette of lance-shaped, succulent leaves, and large off-white or white blooms.

Yucca plants grow in the wild and are also cultivated as ornamentals. They are also grown for food purposes. Yucca is no ordinary plant. It is as tough as nails and highly tolerant. The plant can thrive in drought and still look good. If you plant it in containers at home, yucca will still do well without losing its beauty.

If you are a lazy gardener, this is your dream plant as it rarely requires water, pruning, or fertilizer. In fact, too much pampering does more harm to the plant than good.
When a yucca plant is in bloom, there is no mistaking it as the seemingly dormant plant suddenly erupts in white flowers that are attention-grabbing.

Though yucca is now mostly used as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful foliage and blossoms, in days gone by, it was an important source of food. In addition, yucca’s leaves and stems are also used to make fiber for weaving while the roots are great for making soap.

Though you can eat the flowers and fruits of yucca when they are raw, the stems contain saponins, which can be toxic and have a soapy taste. To break down the saponins and make the stems palatable, they must be cooked before eating.

Yucca’s flowers and fruits are quite a delicacy. People who try them for the first time say that they taste like artichoke, though others say the taste is milder. In some instances, the flowers might have bitter notes depending on how sensitive a person is to bitter flavors. Yucca flowers can be used in stews and soups or tossed in scrambled eggs. You can also sautée the flowers and enjoy them as a side dish.

Yucca should never be mistaken with yuca (manihot esculenta) or cassava plant. Yuca is basically a nut-flavored, starchy, tubular root of the cassava plant commonly utilized as a potato substitute. The two plants might have a name that looks similar but they are quite different.

Now, if you do not like fussy plants but prefer tough, beautiful plants, then you are in luck. Yucca is what you need in your garden. And it comes with an added benefit as you can eat it too.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Sesame: An Edible Plant With Herbal Uses

September 11, 2020

Sesame, benne, or sesame indicum, is a strong-scented, flowering plant
commonly cultivated as a food crop. It has dark-green leaves with
serrated edges. Benne produces white rose, or light purple,
bell-shaped blossoms with pink streaks or spots. The flowers give way
to small, sausage-like pods enclosing pear-shaped seeds. Though not
very common due to its high-value oil, sesame is sometimes grown as an
ornamental plant due to its beautiful blossoms.

The plant is thought to have originated from East Africa or Asia
before spreading to other regions of the world. Today, the plant is
commonly grown in Asia, the Americas, and Africa. Historical records
show that benne was widely cultivated in Babylonia, Egypt, and Greece.
Mesopotamian people are also known to have grown sesame about four
millennia ago.

While the crop is mostly grown for the seeds which produce the highly
sought-after oil, not many people know that sesame leaves and flowers
are edible and are also used for medicinal purposes.

The flowers are crushed and mixed with cow milk, and the resulting paste
used topically to clear black spots, pimples, and wrinkles. The paste
also enhances skin tone and hair growth. In addition, the flowers are
used in Ayurveda medicine to increase male vitality and sperm count.

Ancient Chinese civilizations utilized the oil from its seeds to make
ink while Romans ground the seeds alongside cumin to make a paste for
spreading on bread.

Sesame was highly valued for its oil in ancient civilizations such as
Assyria and Babylon. Today, China and India are the leading producers
of the plant.

Sesame oil has little flavor or odor. It resists turning rancid and is
considered quite stable. These qualities are what make it ideal in
cooking, salad oil, margarine, and shortenings. Basically, sesame
seeds contain 50 percent of oil and 20 percent of protein, about 25 percent of carbohydrates, and 5 percent of fiber. The seeds are commonly used to make candy and bakings.

Sesame was once thought to have mystical powers. This explains its
mention in the 18th century Middle Eastern folk collections known as
Arabian Nights tales. According to the popular bedtime story of Ali
Baba and the 40 Thieves “open sesame” is the magical phrase that opens
a cave where the forty thieves had hidden their treasure.

This phrase is probably based on sesame seed pods that burst open
with a popping sound when mature at the slightest touch. The sudden
popping sound of the pod as it opens up is similar to the sound of a
lock opening with a popping sound.

Its flowers resemble the blossoms of the devil’s claw plant
(proboscidea parviflor). The two plants are said to belong to the same
pedaliaceae family, but some botanists have continued to classify them
differently by classifying the devil’s claw in the martyniaceae.

Unlike most ancient plants that lost ground with modernization, sesame
has always been an important food crop that you should consider
growing in your garden for food, beauty, and herbal reasons.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Crocus saffron, botanically known as crocus sativa has spicy and remedial properties

Beautiful, Spicy and Remedial: Meet The Saffron Crocus Flower

September 6, 2020

Saffron crocus, or saffron, and botanically known as crocus sativus, is a perennial flowering plant of the crocus genus in the iris family. Its English name, saffron, is derived from a French word, safran. The word was borrowed from the Latin word safranum, which is thought to have originated from an Arabic word that means yellow.

Basically, there are more than 90 species of crocuses in the genus. These perennial flowering plants have corms that go dormant in certain seasons and activate to produce leaves and flowers when the growing conditions are ideal. Crocuses grow in full or partial shade. They require well-drained soil and should be planted before the onset of winter. The crocus genus produces showy flowers in splashes of red, pink, blue, purple or white.

While the other types of crocuses are popular for their aesthetic and medicinal qualities, it is only the saffron crocus, the plant that produces saffron which, is a world-famous spice used for culinary purposes. The spice is made from the stigma or filament of the crocus sativus flower. Saffron crocuses bloom in autumn and do not occur in the wild. These plants are famous for their aroma, color, and flavor.

As a spice, saffron has a long and colorful history in the kitchen. Ancient records show that natives living around the Zagros Mountains regularly used saffron as a spice and food. Historians also say that Egyptian herbalists were using the herb for medicinal purposes as far back as 1600 BC.

Blooming crocus saffron gives a splash of purple or blue. Curiously, crocus flowers are sterile as propagation is normally done by corms rather than seeds following pollination.

Harvesting saffron is normally done by hand which explains why it is such an expensive spice. Basically, it takes about 3,500 flowers to make an ounce of dry saffron.

To harvest saffron, you cut the flowers in the morning hours on a sunny day when they are in full bloom. You place the flowers on a flat surface and pick out the stigmas. Only the red-orange parts of the stigma are required to make saffron. The stigmas are then dried under shade or by a dehydrator at the lowest settings.

Currently, the world produces about 400 tons of saffron annually with Iran leading by 76 percent. The spice is used in bakings, soups, stews, candies, beverages and rice dishes. Though there have been efforts to produce saffron artificially, none of those attempts have succeeded.

Apart from its culinary fame, saffron has also been used widely in Ayurvedic and folk medicine. The flowers are known to have antiasthmatic, antidepressive, sedative, adaptogen, emmenagogue and expectorant qualities.

Studies at clinical trial stage are evaluating the ability of saffron to treat depression. Researchers conducting the studies noticed that saffron was as good as fluoxetine in managing depression and was more effective compared to placebo.

People grow crocuses for various reasons. While some grow them for their beautiful burst of colors experienced when they come into bloom, others grow them for their culinary and medicinal benefits. Whichever way you look at crocuses, they are worth your effort. A good place to start is ordering your saffron crocus corms.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Flowers Generally

Cowslip flowers and leaves are herbal and edible

Cowslip: The Underused Herbal and Edible Flowering Plant

August 30, 2020

European cowslip, common cowslip, cowslip, and botanically known as primula veris, is a flowering perennial native to the Northern Hemisphere. It thrives in hedgerows, meadows, and slopes.

Cowslips are in the primula or primrose genus and are hailed as harbingers of the spring. However, unlike the English primrose, the common cowslip blooms slightly later in spring.

The name cowslip is borrowed from an old English word cuslyppe, meaning cow dung. This is attributed to the tendency of the plant to grow where cows had dropped their dung or the plant’s rosettes-like formation resembling green cow dung in the meadows.

Between April and May, cowslips produce anise-scented flowers. The blossoms have pale green, baggy and hairy calyces with yellow petals peeping out at the top.

Curiously, cowslips have two different types of flowers: thrum and pin blossoms. Thrum flowers have a stigma inside the corolla with the anthers at the top close to the opening of the flower. Pin flowers have short stamens and long styles. Each plant has either thrum or pin flowers, but never feature both type pf blossoms.

Cowslips have a long, colorful history as herbal plant and edible plant. Unfortunately, the plant is becoming rare due to loss of habitat, harmful farming practices, and over-harvesting of the herb in the wild.

The European cowslip’s aerial parts contain saponins and salicylates. Saponins have an expectorant effect while salicylates have febrifuge and anti-inflammatory effects. The flower and leaves are best when harvested in spring and can be used fresh or dried for later use. These parts also have anodyne, diuretic, and diaphoretic properties.

Cowslip’s yellow petals have sedative and antispasmodic effects. They are ideal for treating insomnia and irritability in children. They are also said to be good for treating allergic reactions. In some instances, the flowers are macerated to produce essential oil. The oil is used to treat bruises.

Apart from their use as herbal remedies, the flowers and young leaves of the cowslip plant are used for food purposes. The Blossoms are great when eaten raw or used as garnishing as they add to the ornamental value of salads. The flowers and leaves are also cooked and eaten on their own or tossed into soups.

Common cowslip is used to make wine. The yellow petals of the plant are mixed with water, sugar, yeast, and fresh lemon peels and juice. The mixture is boiled for about 45 minutes and left to sit and ferment for about a week before the debris is strained out and the resulting beverage drank or stored in a wine cellar.

Though cowslip is an underutilized plant, it has never lost its herbal and culinary purposes.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Chenopodium ambrosioides, commonly known as Mexican tea

Mexican Tea for Upset Stomach

August 25, 2020

Dysphania ambrosioides, commonly known as Mexican tea, wormseed, Jesuit tea, and epazote, is an annual flowering plant that naturally occurs in the tropics and subtropics. Epazote features long and slender dark green leaves with jagged edges. It produces tiny green flowers that give way to thousands of small seeds.

The plant is native to Mexico and Central America where it grows in the wild. Jesuit tea has been used by native Mexicans to flavor their dishes for years. Though the plant has been used as a source of food for generations, it is still considered a weed and spread to most parts of North, South America, Asia, and Europe accidentally.

[Disclaimer: Mexican tea’s essential oil contains saponins. When taken in large quantities, saponins are known to cause nausea, dizziness, and convulsions. In some instances, the plant is known to cause allergic reactions. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Wormseed prefers growing in full or partial sun. It occurs in disturbed areas such as waste fields, roadsides, and abandoned crop fields. The plant features tiny glands producing an aromatic oil that produces a musky scent. This might explain why the name epazote is closely linked to a skunk. In some instances, the musky aroma of the plant is associated with the smell of old socks.

Though the whole plant has beneficial purposes, it is the leaves, flowers, and stems that are considered edible and medicinal. The leaves of the wormseed plant are used as a leafy green vegetable. It is also tossed in stews, soups, pork, and beans for flavoring. The leaves have a bitter taste due to the presence of saponins in the plant.

Though the Mexican tea plant has a strong odor, its aromatic compounds do not stand up very well to prolonged heating. To preserve its flavor, the herb is added when the food is almost ready.

Mexican tea has stomachic and anthelmintic properties. Its stomachic properties make it ideal for reducing flatulence, this explains why it is often eaten alongside beans and other legumes to help in getting rid of gas. The plant’s anthelmintic qualities make it great for expelling parasites from the gastrointestinal tract such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms.

The popular Mexican tea oil is derived from the whole plant when it is blooming. The oil is considered more effective against parasites compared to an infusion made from the leaves and flowers of the plant. The oil is also good for topical applications in the treatment of fungal infection and inflammation.

Now, next time you are battling flatulence, consider brewing some Mexican tea to calm things down.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Virginia spring beauty, also known as eastern spring beauty, can be used for food, medicine and barometer purposes

Virginia Spring Beauty: For Food, Medicine and Weather Purposes

August 21, 2020

Claytonia virginica, commonly known as Virginia spring beauty, fairy spud, eastern spring beauty, grass-flower, or just spring beauty, is a low-growing, pretty, perennial wildflower, and delicious vegetable. It is native to North America and thrives in sunny river banks, well-watered woodlands, and thickets.

[Note: The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician. In addition, you SHOULD NEVER attempt foraging and eating wild plants unless you are triple sure of their identity and edibility].

The spring beauty is a member of the portulaca family and closely related to miner’s lettuce (montia perfoliata) and purslane (portulaca oleracea). It got the name spring beauty because it is one of the plants that flowers in early spring, just after the gloom of the winter.

Virginia spring beauty is a perennial plant with succulent, grasslike dark green leaves. The plant produces dense white flowers with pink streaks in spring. When these plants bloom in large numbers across a field, they form a stunning, dense, flora formation that takes your breath away. The flowers usually open when it is sunny and warm and are known to close their petals and droop at night or when it is cloudy. So, if you intend to catch sight of these beautiful flowers in the wild, you need to walk around their natural habitats on a sunny day in the afternoon.

The beautiful flowers have a sweet floral scent that attracts pollinator such as bees. In the cut flower industry, Virginia spring beauty blossoms are used on their own in bouquets or used alongside other flowers. In ancient civilizations, the flowers were studied by rainmakers to predict the weather (sort of natural barometers).

The plant has always been associated with human civilizations due to its ornamental, food, and herbal purposes. In North America, the Algonquin and Iroquois tribes utilized the plant for food purposes by boiling or roasting it. Basically, the most sought after part of the plant is the tuber, which has a potato-like flavor and is considered a perfect potato substitute.

Since the plant has always held a coveted place in human history, Virginia spring beauty has been overharvested in the wild, making it almost an endangered plant. In Massachusetts, it is considered an endangered species.

The Virginia spring beauty is not a fussy plant and easily establishes in a garden as long as its natural habitat is simulated. It is a beautiful addition to flower gardens and can be easily propagated.

All the aerial parts of the plant are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked, however, the roots taste better when cooked. The leave, flowers, and stems are eaten raw in salads. Alternatively, they can be cooked like any other greens and eaten with rice, beans, pasta, and other dishes. Apart from its use for food purposes, the entire plant is used orally to prevent conception.

The Virginia spring beauty will cheer you up, help to predict the weather if you can master the ancient art, and still stimulate your palates. Here is a perfect floral plant you should have in your garden.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food, Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Fun Flower Facts

Sacha Inchi, The Climbing Superfood

August 14, 2020

Sacha inchi, Inca nut or Inca peanut, and botanically known as plukenetia volubilis, is a woody, perennial climbing plant in the euphorbiaceae family. Though sacha inchi is known as Inca nut, it’s not a nut per se but a seed.

The plant is native to the Andrean rain forest of the South American Amazon region where it grew in the wild but was domesticated with time. Initially, the native inhabitants of the Amazon Rainforest harvested the seeds growing wildly under the lush canopies of the forest for food purposes. Then, the Inca people of the Junin region of Peru started to cultivate the plant which explains why it is named after them. Over time, the plant spread to other regions of the world including Asia where it grows abundantly.

Sacha inchi has hairy, heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges, and tiny, white flowers. The flowers give way to green, star-shaped fruits that give them ornamental value.

The parts of the plant that are commonly used for food purposes include the leaves, flowers, and seeds. The leaves and flowers are cooked and eaten as a vegetable. Though the seeds are the part that makes the plant famous, they are bitter when eaten raw due to the presence of tannins and are considered unpalatable in that state. However, when roasted over low heat, they make very tasty and nutritious, crunchy snacks.

Inca nuts are not famous for their ornamental value or making crunchy snacks. Their value lays in the oil they produce as it is a culinary delight. The oil is not only used in the food industry to enhance the flavor of food, but it is also known to help in fighting depression. In addition, the oil is used in the beauty industry.

Since the oil’s beneficial components are quite delicate and can be destroyed during the extraction process, extraction usually involves cold-pressing to preserve them. This process protects Omega 3 fatty acids as they are easily destroyed if the oil is exposed to high heat.

Sacha inchi seeds are excellent sources of protein, vitamins, and minerals such as iodine and Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. The presence of these compounds in the plant is what qualifies it as a superfood. Basically, Inca nut is said to be the most nutritious fruit in the world.

Omega-3 oils are the building blocks of cell membranes. They are essential to the functioning of the nervous system and critical for regulating cholesterol levels. In addition, they are known to help in fighting inflammation.

Iron helps in creating hemoglobin and metabolizing proteins. In addition, it is good for healthy muscle development and brain functioning.

Sacha inchi is one plant that has everything going for it. It is ornamental, a superfood, and contains medicinal properties.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Flowers Generally, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Barbarea vulgaris, commonly known as yellow rocketcress

Yellow Rocketcress: The Nutrient-dense Herbal With a Cool Name

August 4, 2020

Barbarea vulgaris, commonly known as yellow rocketcress, wintercress, rocketcress, bittercress, or herb Barbara, is a biennial plant in the cruciferae family that is native to North Africa and Eurasia. The herb Barbara was brought to the US and soon became a noxious weed as it spread by getting concealed among alfalfa and clover seeds.

The plant’s genus name, barbarea, is borrowed from Saint Barbara, an early Greek saint and martyr considered as the patron saint of miners and artillerymen. The association with mining and artillery is due to the plant’s medicinal ability to soothe and heal wounds caused by explosions. The second name of the plant, vulgaris, is a Latin name meaning “common”. Bittercress is also known as wintercress because it can withstand cold winters and can be harvested under the snow.

Rocketcress is normally gathered from the wild for medicinal and food purposes. However, it is also cultivated as an ornamental plant for its beautiful golden flowers and as a salad crop.

Yellow rocketcress occurs in damp lowlands such as stream or riverbanks, and ditches. The plant also occurs in disturbed places, wastelands, abandoned gardens, and rocky outcrops. It thrives in sandy, clay and siliceous soils but rarely grows in acidic places.

The plant’s leaves have dark green, wavy and glossy leaves. It produces golden-yellow flowers in a cluster from April to July featuring four petals in keeping with the character of the cruciferous family.

Bittercress’ leaves, flowers, and stems are edible. These can be chopped and cooked like broccoli or spinach. They can also be tossed into salads while the flowers are perfect for garnishing. The plant has a spicy, sharp, mildly peppery flavor attributed to its high levels of mustard oil.

Yellow rocketcress leaves and flowers can be dried and stored for later use but they lose their peppery flavor; in their dry form, they are ideal for medicinal use.

The plant is high in vitamins B and C. Curiously, yellow rocketcress flowers are known to contain protein. Bittercress also contains decent amounts of calcium and potassium. With so much going for the plant, it is not surprising that wintercress is considered a medicinal plant with blood purifying qualities. In addition, its bitter properties make it ideal for promoting the metabolic and digestive processes.

The Yellow rocketcress is used as a remedy for respiratory tract problems including the common cold. To make the remedy, the aerial parts of the plant are infused and the resulting mixture taken orally as a tea. In addition, bittercress is crushed to make a poultice which is applied to injuries.

So, the yellow rocketcress not only has a cool name but it also tastes good and can help to improve your health.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Bearberry Is Food For Bears and Humans Too

Bearberry: Food For Bears and Humans Too

July 31, 2020

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, commonly known as bearberry or pinemat manzanita, is a low-growing, evergreen plant of the heath family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The plant’s glossy and leathery green leaves normally take on a purple or red tinge in winter before turning to green again in spring.

[Disclaimer: Bearberry should not be consumed in large quantities as it is known to cause nausea, abdominal pain, and respiratory problems. These adverse effects are linked to tannins in the plant. And just because a plant is indicated as edible does not mean you should eat it unless you are doubly sure of its identity or effects on your body. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Bearberry has ornamental value as its green foliage makes a perfect ground cover while its dainty pink or white waxy flowers produced between March and June break the monotony of the plant’s green mat, adding to the beauty of the garden. The lantern or bell-shaped flowers hang gracefully from red stems and stay open for weeks.

Pinemat manzanita is hardy and is rarely fussy, as it can withstand frost and dry weather conditions. However, the plant is hard to establish and a slow grower. Bearberry prefers sandy, well-drained soil in full sun but can still grow in partial shade.

The plant got the name bearberry from its association with bears. Grizzly and black bears love feeding on its berries especially during spring and autumn. The berries which are primarily red in color are also eaten by humans. In the raw form, they are less tasty, and dry. But when cooked, the berries taste like cranberries and are ideal for making cold beverages and jams. In addition, they are commonly used to enhance the taste of sauces and stews.

Aerial parts of the bearberry plant have been used to make herbal remedies for years. A popular technique of extracting the beneficial properties of the plant is to toss the leaves and flowers into a pan with hot water and allowing the mixture to stand for about 10 minutes. The resulting infusion is used to treat urinary tract problems, water retention, diabetes, fever, and indigestion.

To use bearberry for topical applications, the leaves and flowers are crushed to make a poultice that is applied to burns and wounds. The poultice is not only good for hastening the healing of the wounds, but it is also known to have antibacterial properties. In addition, the poultice is used to soothe back pain, and treat rashes, and rheumatism.

Bearberry is an ideal ornamental plant, a good source of food for humans, and a herbal remedy. Sounds like the perfect plant to have in your backyard, right?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Common Boneset: A Popular Herbal Plant With a Magical Past

July 21, 2020

Common boneset, also known as sweating plant, agueweed, wood boneset, boneset, or wild Isaac, and botanically known as eupatorium perfoliatum, is a flowering plant in the aster family. The plant should not be confused with comfrey which is commonly known as bone knit or in some instances, boneset. Common boneset is native to North America and Canada but was introduced to other regions of the world as a result of colonialization.

The plant’s stems have white hair and grow leaves on opposite sides of each other. Bonesets prefer wet, sunny areas and can even thrive in stagnant water for a short period.

Common boneset flowers appear at the top of the stem in clusters. Individual flowers feature 7-11 florets that are white in color. With time, the white florets take on a fluffy brownish-white color as the blossoms mature and give way to seeds that are dispersed by wind.

The plant got the name boneset from its ability to treat dengue, a mosquito-transmitted viral infection that was commonly known as break-bone fever. Dengue was called break-bone fever because it manifested with joint and muscle pains. In addition, the plant has been widely used to treat malaria.

All parts of the boneset were used to treat dengue fever, however, aerial parts were considered more potent especially when in full bloom. The blossoms and leaves are known to contain volatile oils, a bitter flavonoid know as eupatorin mostly used for inhibiting tumor development and treating inflammations as well as tannin acids. In addition, the plant has stimulative, diaphoretic, tonic, antispasmodic, and diuretic properties.

Common boneset was popular among Native Americans who used it as a warm infusion to cause perspiration as a remedy against fevers and to induce bowel movement. When the infusion is cooled and taken as a cold beverage, it is said to have tonic effects.
Since boneset has a bitter taste, the dried leaves and flowers were crushed, mixed with ginger and anise, and enhanced with syrup to make a cough remedy for children.

Boneset was listed in the U. S. Pharmacopoeia as a herbal remedy and in the National Formulary for various ailments up to 1950. Basically, the plant occupied a hallowed place as a medicinal plant for decades before it was replaced by the emergence of conventional pharmaceutical products.

Boneset was not just used for herbal purposes but also for magical purposes. The Chippewa people routinely applied juices of the roots combined with milkweed to a whistle used to summon deer from their hiding places. In other regions, the plant was used to chase away ghosts and protect people against bad omens.

Common boneset might have been displaced by newer medical drugs, but herbalists still swear by it.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Tatsoi Flowers: Crunchy Delicacies

July 12, 2020

Brassica rapa, commonly referred to as tatsoi, spoon mustard, tah tsai, and spinach mustard, is a biennial, low-growing plant. It is native to Asia and considered an ancient vegetable but has been introduced to many parts of the world including North America.

Tatsoi is a quick-growing plant and can be harvested 45 days after planting. It forms a rosette of spoon-shaped, emerald green leaves with a glossy texture and features short, lime green, succulent stems.

The plant thrives in partial shade with about 4 hours of sunlight daily and prefers cool weather. Tatsoi is hardy enough to withstand low temperatures and can even be harvested under the snow. However, frosty conditions usually make it bolt. The plant prefers well-drained, moist, and fertile soil. In cold weather, tatsoi hugs the ground but in warmer places, it grows more upright. Just like most vegetables, it requires moist conditions and irregular watering results in bolting.

Edible parts of the plant include the leaves, flowers, and stems when they are still tender. The flowers are at their best before they open up completely and are considered a crunchy delicacy. Note that by the time tatsoi is flowering, it means the plant has bolted. Therefore, some parts of the plant that were previously edible such as the stems and most of the older leaves are tough and bitter.

Tatsoi has the characteristic 4-petal blossoms of the brassica or cabbage family, making it a close relative of the cauliflower.
When raw, it has a nutty flavor but when cooked, it develops a spinach-like earthy taste. Tatsoi can be stir-fried, steamed, or simmered in stews.

The plant has sufficient levels of vitamin A, K, folate, carotenoids, and calcium. It is a highly versatile herb and can be used as a spinach substitute. Actually, you can use tatsoi anywhere you use spinach. The vegetable goes well with other salads such as arugula and spinach. Tatsoi is also known to pair perfectly with mint, apples, and garlic.

Spoon mustard has a short shelf life and lasts a few days even in cold storage. To preserve its flavor and extend the vegetable’s shelf life, put in a plastic bag and place it in a refrigerator with other cold storage vegetables.

Though this ancient delicacy is not as popular as its close relatives such as spinach and broccoli, tatsoi packs a heavy nutritional punch which is a good reason to cultivate it in your garden.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Alfalfa, The Superfood Used as Fodder

July 7, 2020

Alfalfa, or lucerne, and botanically known as medicago sativa, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the fabaceae family. It originated from Central and South Asia but it escaped cultivation and is now grown in most regions of the world as a high-value fodder crop.

Alfalfa has been used as fodder for years and is the most cultivated forage legume due to its high protein and digestible fiber content. The plant is used in both fresh and dried form to feed horses and cattle.

Lucerne is said to have been discovered by Arabian horsemen who noticed that their horses put on weight, improved performance, and looked healthier whenever they fed on the plant. They also realized that people who fed on the plant enjoyed similar benefits.

The plant is highly tolerant and can endure harsh growing conditions. At maturity, it features clover-like leaves and beautiful purple-colored flowers.

[Disclaimer: Alfalfa is known to cause sun sensitivity and low red blood cells in some people. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of plants, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Apart from feeding animals, alfalfa is also used as human food. In western countries, sprouting alfalfa is mainly used to enhance salads or soups and is considered a great delicacy. In addition, lucerne can be crushed to extract its juice. Alternatively, the leaves are dried and tossed into boiling water to make a refreshing herbal infusion.

Alfalfa flowers can be eaten raw, unlike its seeds which can only be eaten as sprouts. The flowers have a sweet, nutty flavor and are considered the tastiest part of the plant. In addition, the leaves can be cooked or eaten raw, but they are less tasty compared to the flowers.

Nutritional experts say that alfalfa is one of the most nutritious foods in the world, which earns it a place among superfoods. The plant is rich in B1, B2, B3, B6, B17, C, D, E, and K. It is known to contain sufficient levels of phosphorus, boron, calcium, silicon, zinc, potassium, cobalt, sodium, chromium, manganese and aluminum. It is also rich in amino acids and proteins.

Alfalfa is not just good for food and fodder purposes. The plant is also known to contain many helpful phytochemicals such as terpenes, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phytoestrogens that are ideal for human health. It is ideal for preventing cardiovascular diseases by reducing cholesterol levels in the blood. It also assists in protecting the degradation of the nervous system.

Since lucerne contains calcium, it is good for stalling the onset of osteoporosis. In addition,
phytoestrogen, one of the phytochemicals in lucerne is known to mimic estrogen, the female sex hormone. This means that phytoestrogen can be used to manage the reduction of estrogen in women, thus effectively easing the effects of menopausal problems. The estrogenic effects are also said to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

Basically, consuming alfalfa regularly is good for your general well-being, making this plant one of the few superfoods that you dare not ignore in your diet.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Wild hyacinth with pink blossoms. It is also known as blue dick

Blue Dicks: The Edible Flowers With a Giggly Name

June 28, 2020

Dichelostemma capitatum, commonly known as blue dicks, or wild hyacinth, is a perennial wildflower with a funny-sounding name.

It is native to the southern region of the United States and occurs in a variety of habitats from mountains to deserts. The plant is highly tolerant and can grow in dry areas, but in such habitats its bulbs usually hibernate for years, waiting for the ideal conditions to sprout.

Blue dicks are easy to grow from corms, but they can be propagated via seeds too. These plants are not choosy and can be grown in almost any type of soil or planted in containers. Though blue dick prefers to grow in full sun, they can grow in partial shade or under trees.

The wild hyacinth is ideal for the cut flower industry and is also great for planting along walkways as they brighten seating areas, yards, and gardens.

The origin of the plant’s giggly name is a subject of debate that has never been settled or effectively explained. Some schools of thought say that the term “dick” is a shortened version of the genus name “dichelostemma”. However, a different school of thought argues that the name has existed longer than the genus.

Blue dicks feature sprawling, succulent, grass-like leaves at the base of the stem. The leaves are considered the powerhouse of the plant as they produce food that is later stored in underground corms in readiness for the dry season.

The plant flowers in spring, bringing forth purple, blue, white, or pink blossoms that look like they are nodding in the breeze. Though the flowers have little scent, they attract butterflies and hummingbirds which feed on their nectar and assist in pollination. The beautiful flowers usually emerge between February and May. At a casual glance, the flower looks like a single blossom perched on top of the smooth, slender stalk, but on closer examination, it is a ball-shaped cluster with many individual flowers.

Blue dick flowers are not only beautiful to behold, but they are also edible. You can use them as garnishing in desserts and salads or stir-fry them.

Blue dick corms or tubers are not only tasty but also nutritious. This explains why they are sought after by ground squirrels, bears, deer, and gophers. Apart from being animal food, the corms have been used as food by Native Americans for years.

The corms were cultivated as a food crop and harvested annually in spring. They can be eaten raw, roasted, boiled, or baked. Alternatively, they can be dried or ground into flour and feature a subtle flavor and are mildly sweet.

Now, next time you hear someone talk about garnishing salads with blue dicks, do not get any ‘funny ideas!’.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Miner’s Lettuce: Miner’s Staple and America’s Gift to Salad

June 22, 2020

Claytonia perfoliata, commonly known as miner’s lettuce or Indian lettuce, is a small, herbaceous, mildly succulent annual plant in the montiaceae family.

It has light green, disk-like leaves and features clusters of five to forty tiny light pink flowers borne on slender stalks from February to May.

The plant got its generic name from John Clayton, a British botanist and plant collector, especially in the Virginia region. Its specific or second name is derived from the perfoliated leaves the plant bears which encircle its stem.

Miner’s lettuce is one of the few plants native to North America. That is why it is considered as America’s gift to the salad world.

The plant is known as miner’s lettuce because miners would forage and use it as a salad green when they were working away from civilization and could not access other greens. The lettuce gained popularity during the gold rush as people working in mines ate it to prevent scurvy.

Miner’s lettuce flowers, leaves, and stems are a great source of vitamin C and A. They can be eaten raw or cooked and feature a pleasant crunchy feel with a mild taste.

Miner’s lettuce is a highly aggressive plant and tends to self-seed. In USDA zones 6 and other warmer regions, the plant can survive winter which in some instances makes it hard to control.

In its natural habitat, the plant thrives in shaded areas such as under trees. It prefers sandy, loamy, or gravely places but can grow along river banks in silty soil and rock crevices.

In spite of being a common and indigenous food crop, miner’s lettuce has been largely forgotten in favor of exotic greens and most Americans walk past it in the wild without noticing its existence.

Decades ago, Native Americans had an interesting way of flavoring the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant before eating them. They would strew the plant across the path of ants that excreted an acidic compound on the plant. This had the effect of giving the plant a more favorable flavor.

Miner’s lettuce is best harvested as soon as it flowers just before the flower stalks get tough and stringy. If you don’t intend to use the plant right away, consider putting it into a ziplock bag and placing it in the refrigerator. Ideally, it should remain fresh for up to a week.

Now, next time you walk past this underappreciated vegetable, take the time to acknowledge its contribution to human civilization.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Sulfur Cosmos: The Bright, Modest Multi Purpose Flower

May 26, 2020

Sulfur cosmos, orange sulfur, yellow cosmos, or bright lights, and botanically known as cosmos sulphureus, is an annual flowering plant in the aster or sunflower family. It is native to the Americas and Mexico but has now naturalized in Australia, Europe, Africa, and Asia. In most of these places, it was introduced as an ornamental plant but in some instances, its seeds were accidentally transported aboard merchant ships.

The genus name of the plant comes from a Greek word, kosmos, meaning beautiful, orderly, and harmonious. Sulfur is borrowed from the color of the plant’s petals, which are bright orange or golden yellow.

Orange sulfur is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its bright, lovely flowers which are ideal for the cut flower industry. It is also harvested in the wild for food and herbal purposes. In spite of its many uses, the plant is considered invasive in some U.S states.

The plant is easily found growing along roadsides, on slopes, and well-watered meadows. It is known to escape cultivation to grow in the wild or as a garden weed. Sulfur cosmos occurs in fertile, well-drained soil with sufficient moisture but can also tolerate dry and poor soil. For the plant to thrive and flower, it must be in a sunny spot.

In summer, sulfur cosmos produces bright golden yellow, or orange to red, flowers that attract various pollinators including bees.

Basically, the parts of the plant that are used for herbal and food purposes are the flowers and leaves. Blossoms are ideal for stir-frying or garnishing salads as they add a splash of color. The flowers have a mild mango taste and pair well with fruity dishes.

To get the best out of the leaves, harvest them when they are young and tender. Together with the flowers, they are added to chop suey and eaten with rice or pasta.

Apart from being edible, the yellow flower heads of the sulfur cosmos are known to contain beneficial compounds such as flavonoids. These make them ideal for inhibiting the growth and reproduction of fungi, bacteria, and viruses. In addition, the flowers are known to have anti-inflammatory properties and are ideal for treating arthritis, ulcers, and liver inflammation.

Though not a common practice today, the orange sulfur flowers were commonly used to produce an orange or yellow dye for coloring fabric by native tribes in Central and South America. The dye was also used by European settlers in South Africa and the practice is known to exist to date but is limited to decorating traditional crafts.

Sulfur cosmos might be a modest flower but its uses are too many to dismiss. This is definitely a multi-purpose plant.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Flowers Generally

Cattail is considered a swamp's gold mine due to its many food uses

Common Cattail: Swamp’s Grocery Store

May 17, 2020

Typha latifolia, also known as common cattail, corn dog grass, bulrush, broadleaf cattail, or just cattail, is a perennial plant in the cattail family. It is native to North and South America, Australia, Europe, and Africa. The grass-like plant commonly occurs in marshland, ponds, swamps, wet thickets, and bogs. It thrives in moist soil on the edge of riparian areas in places with plenty of sunshine.

The common cattail is easy to identify as it features flowers or seed heads resembling corn dogs or brown cigar-heads sitting on top of long stalks. It has linear, ribbon-like leaves with a gray-green color.

Common cattail flowers emerge in spring and summer. They feature a brown, cigar-shaped flower with a thin yellow spike at the top, which is essentially the male part. The female flowers are at the bottom while the male flowers are at the top. This male on top and female at the bottom arrangement helps in pollination as pollen floats down to the female flower when the stalk is shaken by wind or animals. Once the male part exhausts it pollen reserves, it withers and drops to the ground. This leaves the fuzzy-looking female flower at the top of the stalk. The flower resembles a hotdog impaled on a stick and is commonly used in floral arrangements, especially when it’s dry.

The cattail flower has many uses and ancient people knew this well. Native Americans utilized the plant for food, tinder, and bathroom purposes.

Basically, the whole plant is edible but it depends on the time of the year. At a young age, the leaves and tender stems are great as cooked vegetables. In addition, the leaves can be tossed into soups and stews.

The lower part of the stalk holding the flowers can be harvested and eaten raw. It has a cucumber-like flavor. Alternatively, common cattail flowering stalks can be boiled and eaten as corn. The raw stalks can also be ground and used as flour.

Before the male flower pollinates the female, which normally takes place in spring, it produces copious amounts of pollen. The pollen can be shaken into a container and eaten on its own as it is a great source of protein. It can also be used to thicken stews and soups or mixed with flour to make muffins, bread, and pancakes.

Before pollination, the female flower is green. At this phase, the flower can be harvested and cooked. The cooked flower goes well with butter just like corn on the cob.

Phew! So much going for one plant, right? It is no wonder the common cattail is considered a swamp’s goldmine or grocery store.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Lobelia cardinalis or cardinal flower was once used as a love charm

Cardinal flower: Once Used as a Love Charm Now a Herbal Plant

April 26, 2020

Cardinal flower, botanically known as lobelia cardinalis, is a herbaceous, flowering, perennial plant in the bellflower family (campanulaceae). The plant is native to the Americas but was spread to other regions including Europe, by settlers who sent the plant to their home countries due to its attractive flowers.

It has alternate, oblong or lance-shaped leaves and bright showy flowers that make it ideal as an ornamental plant. Cardinal blossoms have such intense color that you can never mistake them even from a distance.

In late summer, fire-engine red flowers emerge, borne on long terminal racemes with irregular, double lips featuring a tube at the upper part. The blossoms usually add bold red color to gardens, yards, and fields bringing them to life. Basically, the cardinal flower derives its name from the similarity of its scarlet blossoms to the bright red hat worn by Roman Catholic cardinals.

The cardinal flower is an easy plant to grow. It can thrive in full sun or partial shade. The plant prefers to grow in soil with moisture, which explains why the plant normally occurs at the edge of water bodies such as rivers, ponds, and marshes.

[Disclaimer: Lobeline is toxic when consumed in large quantities and is known to cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

For years, Native tribes such as the Haudenosaunee or Iroquois crushed the whole plant (flowers, leaves, stems, and roots), boiled the mixture, and used the infusion orally for treating cramps. The Delaware or Lenape Indian tribes used the cardinal flower infusion to treat typhoid while the Pawnee and Mesquaki tribes commonly used the plant in their love ceremonies. They would chop the flowers and roots of the plant and mix them with food served to quarreling couples to help reconcile them. The Pawnee also used the flower to make aphrodisiacs and love potions believing, that possessing the blossoms made a man or woman irresistible.

The main active constituent in the cardinal flower is an alkaloid known as lobeline, common to the lobelia plants. The compound has a pungent, tobacco-like odor. It is mildly toxic and is known to cause irritation on contact.

Lobeline has a long, colorful history as a medicinal compound. The compound is known to have stimulative and emetic properties. These properties make it ideal for inducing vomiting and treating respiratory tract problems. Lobeline is also known to help addicts, especially smokers, to kick their habit due to its similarities with nicotine, a common constituent in tobacco. This explains why one of the popular plants in the lobelia family, lobelia inflata, is commonly known as Indian tobacco.

Though the cardinal flower is no longer used as a love potion, its attention-grabbing blossoms are still sought after in the floral industry and herbal industry.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Lemon Myrtle, the Super Herb

March 16, 2020

Backhousia citriodora, commonly known as lemon myrtle, or sweet verbena, is a subtropical flowering shrub native to Australia but is now grown around the world.

The plant was named backhousia citriodora after James Backhouse, an English botanist. Initially, the plant was named “lemon-scented myrtle” due to its strong lemon aroma but with time it was shortened to “lemon myrtle”.

Lemon myrtle is a hardy plant and can thrive in poor soils. It mostly grows in rainforests and along river banks.

The shrub is considered the queen of the herbs due to its lemon twist and is one of the highly sought-after herbs in Australia. Sweet verbena is not only popular in Australia, but it is also a darling of alternative cure and culinary enthusiasts due to its aromatic citrus flavor which is not only sweet but also refreshing.

Traditionally, the Australian Aborigines harvested the shrub in the rainforests to enhance their dishes. They also used it to relieve sore throats and heal wounds. Today, gardeners normally cultivate the shrub as an ornamental plant in order to enjoy its citrus notes in the yard. Some also cultivate it for culinary and medicinal reasons.

Normally, it is the leaves and flowers of the sweet verbena that are used for culinary and herbal purposes. The shrub contains citral, a potent antimicrobial, antifungal and antiseptic compound commonly found in plants and fruits with the citrus flavor. The plant is also used to bring out the flavor and increase the aroma of salads, meats, curries, bakings, desserts, and sauces.

In the 1900s, the flowers and leaves of the lemon myrtle shrub were harvested aggressively for commercial purposes. The shrub’s essential oil was extracted via distillation and exported to the US and Europe where it was used for flavoring beverages.

In recent years, researchers have sought to evaluate the medicinal capabilities of the plant. In a study conducted in 2004, researchers sought to find out the effectiveness of lemon myrtle against molluscum contagiosum, a viral infection.

The study involved 31 patients diagnosed with the infection treated with a single dose of lemon myrtle topically applied daily. After 21 days, researchers noticed that there was a 90 percent reduction in lesions. Therefore they concluded that lemon myrtle was effective against viral infections such as molluscum contagiosum.

Good for skincare
Lemon myrtle is widely used in the skincare industry to make soaps, conditioners, body lotions, and lip balms. Its scent is highly sought after in the beauty industry because it is known to have calming and soothing effects.

Antioxidative
Lemon myrtle has sufficient levels of antioxidants. These are ideal for protecting the body against oxidative stress and the effects of free radicals.

Lemon myrtle is a great shrub to have in your yard. It will not only impart its citrus scent to the yard, but it is also good for making your dishes sing and has many health benefits.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Rose-scented geranium is great for aromatherapy

Rose-scented Geranium Flower : Ideal for Aromatherapy

March 16, 2020

Rose-scented geranium, botanically known as geranium pelargonium, is an evergreen perennial plant. It is native to the southern part of Africa but has spread to other regions of the world due to its fame as a medicinal and ornamental plant.

These plants have pinnate leaves on long stems. They produce beautiful, showy blossoms in lilac, pink, red, and white colors, featuring 5 petals.

Rose-scented geraniums have been used as herbal remedies for years. The parts of the plant that are commonly used for medicinal purposes are flowers and leaves. These aerial parts have aromatic essential oils with a sweet, aromatic flavor reminiscent of roses. The oil has emollient, antidepressant, relaxant, astringent and antiseptic effects.

To extract these essential oils from the plant, the flowers and leaves are harvested and crushed or chopped. The pulp is applied to the site of injury and discarded after a while.

Apart from topical application, there is the option of making an infusion or tea from the flowers and leaves of the rose-scented geranium. To make the infusion, the crushed or chopped aerial parts of the plant are put in a pan with water and brought to a boil. Once the mixture boils, it is allowed to simmer for about 20 minutes.

Soothes and calms the nervous system
The rose-scented geranium oil is commonly used in aromatherapy where it is known to have sedative and uplifting effects. In some instances the oil is used as a deodorant or insect repellant.

The medicinal compounds of the oil can also be extracted via infusion or tea. Rose-scented geranium infusion is ideal for calming the nervous system, balancing the hormones and soothing frayed nerves.

In a fast world where stress levels are quite high, drinking a cup of the infusion or inhaling or bathing in water with rose-scented geranium oil will quickly lift up your mood, help in relieving stress and clear your foggy mind.

Analgesic
Rose-scented geranium oil has anti-inflammatory qualities which make it ideal for managing aches and pains brought on by migraines, injuries, and chronic conditions. Studies show that the infusion stimulates the release of endorphins which helps in relieving pain fast and effectively.

Ultimately, the rose-scented geranium is one of the few plants with both herbal and aesthetic value. It is definitely one of the flowering plants you should have in your home.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Flowers Generally

Snowdrop Flower: Beyond White Innocence

March 11, 2020

Snowdrop, also referred to as common snowdrop, and botanically known as galanthus nivalis, is a perennial low-growing flowering plant belonging to the amaryllis family. It is native to Asia and Europe.

Snowdrops thrive in cold climates. They prefer growing in well-drained soils with sufficient moisture and humus. Snowdrops can grow either in full sun or partial shade.

The plants bloom as the snow melts late in winter, mostly in February or March. Snowdrops produce white flowers hanging down from their stalk. The flowers are not only beautiful due to their snow-white color, but the blossoms also pack a sweet, honey-like scent.

Snowdrop’s genus name, galanthus, refers to the white color of the plant’s flower. The second botanical name, nivalis, is a Latin word for snow-like.
Though snowdrops are often mistaken for snowflakes (leucojum aestivum ), the two plants are quite different but related. Part of the reason people confuse snowdrops with snowflakes is that both of them produce white flowers. However, unlike snowdrops that announce the coming of spring, snowflakes bloom well into spring.

The white flowers of the snowdrop plant are often seen as symbolizing hope and innocence. Few things inspire hope at the end of winter more than the delicate yet brave shoots of snowdrops peeking out from the cold, frost-covered ground. The sight of these delicate shoots braving the frost gives hope that spring is just around the corner. Better still, these plants with innocent looking flowers contain a compound known as galantamine. This is an alkaloid used in treating Alzheimer’s disease.

The medicinal qualities of snowdrops were first exploited by the Greeks, who used the plant for mind-altering purposes. In Homer’s Odyssey, Homer claims Odyssesus used snowdrop to help his mind to focus and shake off Circe’s (the sorceress) incantations that had already changed his men into swine.

Galantamine was first extracted from snowdrop in the 1950s by a Bulgarian chemist. The physician developed an interest in the plant when he noticed locals rubbing their faces with various parts of the plant.

In 1958, the alkaloid was approved and recognized as a pharmaceutical drug in Bulgaria while the FDA approved it in 2001. Currently, galantamine is used as a supplement to enhance memory for people suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Apart from being used as a memory-enhancing drug and supplement, galantamine is used to treat nervous system disorders as well as to regulate menstrual flow. In some instances, the alkaloid is known to induce abortion in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Snowdrops give hope in their snow-white innocence, but they do much more than that by bestowing humankind with a compound holding the promise of helping people battling dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Gotu Kola, The Herb of Longevity

March 6, 2020

Gotu kola, Asian pennywort or Indian pennywort, and botanically known as centella asiatica, is a herbaceous, perennial plant in the apiaceae family. It is native to Africa, Asia, and Australia.

Gotu kola is grown for medicinal and culinary purposes. The plant grows in wetlands or marshy places. In some instances, gotu kola can grow in shallow water by floating its roots in water. In the US, gotu kola occurs in hardiness zones 7-11.

Asian pennywort is a creeping plant with kidney-shaped leaves. The leaves feature serrated edges and resemble a fan due to their uneven edges. Between July and August, it produces tiny pink or white blossoms in clusters. Gotu kola blossoms are normally hidden beneath the leaves and are hard to find unless you are looking for them.

Indian pennywort is one of the highly revered Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines. In Ayurvedic medicine, this tonic remedy is used to help in clearing foggy thoughts, managing stress, and boosting memory.

The ability of the plant to boost cognitive functions is one of the reasons it is held in high regard. It is no wonder that gotu kola was fondly referred to as the longevity herb.

Gotu kola’s claims as the longevity herb were supported by Li Ching-Yuen, a Daoist herbalist and master, who used the plant regularly. According to ancient records, Li died aged 256 years. The herbalist attributed his long life to the daily use of gotu kola.

For more than 2000 years, the plant has been hailed as a legendary miraculous herb for its ability to boost focus and clarity as well as calm nerves. Modern herbalists use gotu kola to treat wounds, and bacterial infections and enhance nerve function.

The plant is considered a safe remedy as it is also edible. This means that it can be taken as a tincture, infusion or included in beverages and soups.

Gotu kola contains triterpenes. These boost the production of collagen, a critical building block of the skin. The plant has antiviral, antifungal, antiinflammatory, insecticidal and antibacterial properties. These qualities make the plant ideal for managing skin conditions including psoriasis, healing minor burns, wounds, and scars.

Before the advent of modern medicine, gotu kola was a popular remedy for leprosy in India. Studies seeking to authenticate these claims show that the plant contains asiaticoside, a triterpenoid. The compound is immunomodulatory, antioxidant, wound healing and anti-inflammatory. Asiaticoside increases migration rates of skin cells which promotes wound healing.

Gotu kola, the herb of longevity, is an interesting plant that you should have growing in your garden, not necessarily for ornamental purposes but for health purposes.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food, Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Flinders Rose (Caper) : The Mediterranean Floral Cuisine

March 6, 2020

Flinders rose or caper is a small, edible flower bud growing on the bush of capparis spinosa or caper bush. The shrub is native to Asia and the Mediterranean region. Caper bush belongs to the caper family which is closely related to the mustard family. If the unopened capers are not picked in time, they open up resulting in beautiful, pink-white flowers.

Flinders rose buds are normally picked as soon as they form. They are dried, salted and immersed in vinegar to give them a tasty flavor before they are eaten. The flower buds can be eaten raw or cooked and eaten as vegetables. When pickled, they have a peppery flavor with subtle floral notes.

Capers go well with oily meaty dishes, sauces, salads, and pasta. These flower buds are commonly used in Italian dishes such as chicken piccata or mixed with miso paste for use in other dishes.

Flinders roses have been cultivated from as far back as 2000 BC. Though these flower buds are popular vegetables, they are highly delicate and must be harvested by hand.

In traditional Chinese medicine, capers are known for their bitter qualities. The bitterness is thought to help in eliminating excess water from the body and improving circulation.

Good for your bones and hastens wound healing
Capers are high in sodium and a good source of copper and vitamin K. The vitamin is a critical component of the blood clotting in the system as it is necessary for the function of various proteins involved in the coagulation process. Blood clotting is critical in the event of injuries as it stanches bleeding and promotes healing of the wound. Since capers have very high sodium content, it’s wise to soak them for several minutes in water to get rid of excess salt and enhance their flavor.

Apart from supporting the coagulation process, vitamin K is critical for bone health. The vitamin is an important component in increasing compounds that help in maintaining calcium reserves as well as bone metabolism.

Help in regulating blood sugar
Capers are an ideal source of fiber which slows down the uptake of sugar in the body. This keeps the blood sugar levels stable and enhances glycemic control.

Apart from being a good source of fiber, flinders rose is known to contain certain compounds believed to have antidiabetic effects.

Initial studies have found that caper extracts are significantly effective in lowering blood glucose in diabetic people. Though not enough research has been carried out to authenticate these claims and identity these compounds, capers seem to hold a lot of potential in helping diabetic people cope with their problem.

Now, if you love eating flinders roses, you might as well try cultivating them in your yard. Occasionally you can allow a few buds to bloom for aesthetic effects.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Motherwort for Anxiety and Cardiovascular Problems

March 4, 2020

Motherwort, also known as lion’s tail, throw-wort or lion’s ear and botanically known as leonurus cardiaca, is an upright shrub with dark green leaves belonging to the mint family. It is native to Europe and Asia but is now common in other regions including the US where it is considered an invasive weed in some states.

[Disclaimer: Motherwort contains essential oil with a lemon scent that is known to cause photosensitivity when ingested. The leaves can also cause contact dermatitis in people with sensitive skin. The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

The plant earned the name “motherwort” due to its ability to manage and soothe aches, pain, and tension associated with childbirth, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Motherwort is known to relax and strengthen uterine muscles which help in easing gynecological problems.

Motherwort’s genus name ‘leonurus’ meaning lion’s tail is based on the appearance of the plant which people thought looked like a lion’s tail. The specific species name, ‘cardiaca’, means for the heart. It refers to the early association of the plant with cardiovascular health.

Motherwort is known to be highly beneficial to menopausal women. Basically, menopause comes with many complications including palpitations, irritability, and panic attacks. The plant contains leonurine, a compound with antiarrhythmic, antidepressive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. These properties help in regulating heart palpitations, moodiness and panic attacks in menopausal women.

Normally, the leaves and flowers of motherwort are the parts used to prepare herbal remedies, however, the whole herb is useful for medicinal purposes. Motherwort is often harvested in August when it is in full bloom mode and dried for later use.

Unlike its close relatives in the mint family, motherwort is bitter and has a pungent odor. The plant produces hairy pink or purple flowers from July to September. Curiously, motherwort rarely survives in cultivation but thrives in the wild. It commonly occurs along riverbanks, in meadows, neglected gardens, and yards.

Motherwort was widely prescribed by Greek physicians to calm nerves during childbirth as they believed that it had tonic effects on the nervous system.
The plant contains diterpenes, phenylpropanoids, monoterpenes, flavonoids, and phenolic acids as well as phytosterols. It also contains sterols, lectins, volatile oils, and tannins.

Good for blood circulation
The plant has been shown to have a lot of potential in enhancing blood circulation and regulating blood viscosity. In a study involving 105 patients, 94.5 percent of the patients using the herb experienced a significant improvement in blood viscosity.

Regulates hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid is too active and is considered among the most difficult conditions to manage holistically. However, motherwort can calm and regulate the hyperthyroid as well as complications arising from this disorder such as racing heart, irritability, and irregular menses.

Though motherwort is not easy to cultivate in a flower garden, if you manage to get it going, it will require little care but the plant will cheer you with its many health benefits.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Time to Eat Broccoli Flower

March 4, 2020

Broccoli is a flowering plant belonging to the cabbage family. The plant is related to kale, cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.

Broccoli is one of the most popular plants in gardens and a favorite vegetable in the U.S. The plant is said to have originated from a variant of wild mustard that has been modified over time. During the artificial selection process, the stem or stalk and flower buds of the mustard plant were modified, resulting in the present-day broccoli.

Broccoli is said to have been first cultivated in Italy but was introduced to the world as a vegetable in the course of colonization. It is easy to propagate via seeds or seedlings. The plant loves growing in cool but sunny spots with well-drained soil. It is therefore ideal for planting in the fall or spring.

Broccoli is an ideal source of vitamins including vitamin C, antioxidants and minerals. It is rich in calcium, iron, and folate and a good source of protein as well as fiber.

The vegetable is known to help in combating many types of cancer especially the intestinal and stomach variants. It is also good for enhancing digestion because it contains fiber. Broccoli is used to reduce cholesterol and promote good eyesight due to the presence of vitamin A.

Traditionally, the most popular part of broccoli is the green head and stalk. The head is made up of unopened florets. Broccoli’s flowerhead is surrounded by leaves and closely resembles its cousin, cauliflower. The most notable difference between the two flowerheads is that broccoli’s flowerhead is green while cauliflower is white.

Naturally, the edible green heads are harvested and eaten before the flower buds open. But occasionally, broccoli rushes to flower especially due to excess heat or drought. Additionally, if the flower buds are not harvested in time, they open up resulting in bright yellow blossoms. Most people usually give up, cut off the flowers and dispose them off believing they are not edible. But in the real sense, these flowers are as edible as the unopened flower buds.

Broccoli flowers are highly delicious and can be cooked or eaten raw. The flowers are delicate and tend to wilt when cooked, so they are better off eaten raw or lightly steamed.

The flowers have a pleasant, mild peppery flora flavor with subtle honey notes. They go well with smoked meats, red pepper, onion, ham, potatoes, and cheese.

Now, if you were like most people who thought flowering broccoli is not edible, you now know better. So its time to start eating broccoli flowers.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food, Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Safflower Tea is Good for Your Bone and Heart Health

March 2, 2020

Safflower tea is derived from safflower, an annual flowering plant in the aster or sunflower family. The plant is botanically known as carthamus tinctoris and is native to Africa and Asia.

Safflower produces yellow, red, white or orange blossoms. The blossoms are quite showy and are commonly used for ornamental purposes. Traditionally, these flowers were harvested to make a commercial dye which was important then for dying textiles, however, with time, the plant-based dye was replaced by synthetic dyes. The flowers were also used to extract a saffron-like food-grade color which was also used as a spice.

Safflower has been around for years. Ancient records show that safflower has been used by humans for almost 4,000 years. Historians even say that safflower was found in a 1600 BC tomb, belonging to Amenophis 1. The plant was also recorded by Ptolemy in 260 BC.

Safflower tea or infusion is less popular in western countries compared to Asian countries, however, this does not mean that it is inferior to other popular herbal tisanes. The infusion has a rich, floral aroma that some describe as a combination of tobacco and chocolate. It is used as a herbal remedy for treating a wide variety of health problems including cardiovascular conditions and enhancing the general wellbeing of a person.

Safflower tisane is ideal for managing cholesterol and regulating blood sugar levels. It is commonly used in traditional Chinese as well as Ayurvedic medicine. The infusion is normally prescribed for alleviating stress, depression, and anxiety. When ingested, the tea is known to release oils that soothe and relax nerves. Traditional Chinese Medicine also uses dried safflower petals to enhance blood circulation. This helps in managing menstrual cramps, healing bruises and resolving amenorrhea.

A recent study shows that safflower tea holds the potential of lowering the risk of osteoporosis, especially in postmenopausal women. The study involved 40 postmenopausal women who took the safflower tea or placebo for about 180 days.

After six months, researchers realized that the placebo group had significantly lower osteocalcin levels and bone density compared to the group taking safflower tisane which did not experience a reduction in osteocalcin levels or bone density. Therefore, researchers concluded that the safflower tisane prevents bone loss. However, the study did not get into what exactly prevents it and more research is needed to find out the compounds in safflower that promote bone health.

Basically, these flowers are known to contain many beneficial compounds including limonene, a strong antioxidant that assists in preventing cancer and managing cancer. Safflower also contains magnesium, iron, manganese and vitamin B-3. These compounds are probably the reason why safflower is considered such a highly beneficial herbal remedy.

Safflower is not popular both in the flower industry and in the herbal world. But this showy flower is worth a spot in your garden.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food, Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Cauliflower is good for your brain and heart

Cauliflower: Good for Your Brain and Heart

March 2, 2020

Cauliflower is an annual plant belonging to the cabbage family and is a close relative of kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. It originated from Asia and spread to other regions of the world as more people discovered its edibility. Ancient records show that cauliflower has been cultivated for almost a thousand years especially in the Turkey region. The vegetable became popular in Europe in the 16th century and caught on four decades later in the US. Today, China and the US are leading producers of cauliflower.

In its early stages, cauliflower looks like broccoli. However, as the two plants grow, the differences begin to show. Broccoli opens outward to reveal green florets while cauliflower curls inwards to form a tight flowerhead. The tiny white florets are protected from direct sunlight by leaves surrounding the head. Since chlorophyll cannot form without sunlight, the flowerhead remains white, however, some varieties have purple, orange or green flowerheads.

The purple and orange varieties are said to develop their unique colors due to the presence of anthocyanins while the green variety is said to have been crossbred with broccoli. Anthocyanins are flavonoids that give plants purple, red, orange and red colors.

Cauliflower thrives in clay-like, mildly acidic but fertile soil. It requires sufficient watering and sunlight for optimal growth and flowering.

Though cauliflower’s leaves are edible, it’s the white florets in a tightly packed head that the plant is known for. The florets can be eaten raw, stir-fried, added to soups or cooked.

Normally, cauliflower gives off a strong odor when cooking just like other vegetables in the cruciferous family. The pungent smell results from the presence of sulfur compounds in these vegetables known as glucosinolates.

Cauliflower is not among the blossoms that are considered pretty. However, in spite of its seemingly bland appearance, the flowerhead is highly nutritious and is considered among the most nutritious plants on the planet. It is an ideal source of vitamin C, folate, and vitamin K.

Vitamins C and K are antioxidants that neutralize the effect of free radicals which are compounds that damage normal cells and contribute to the development of conditions such as cancer and cardiovascular problems. Folate helps in cell development and metabolism. The flower also contains fiber which enhances digestion and promotes weight loss.

Apart from antioxidants, cauliflower is famous for containing choline, an important nutrient that is required by the body for neurodevelopment. While the body is known to make a little choline, most of it comes from the food you eat.

Though choline is utilized by the body for many other functions, it is mostly known for boosting cognitive abilities. Studies have shown that consumption of choline during pregnancy supercharges the brain activity of animals in the uterus. Some schools of thought seem to hold that choline may help in reducing the possibility of developing age-related memory loss.

Cauliflower may look bland compared to popular flowers such as roses but this plant packs a powerful nutritional punch compared to its good-looking rivals.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Delicious, Colorful Wisteria

February 25, 2020

Wisteria is a genus of deciduous, rapidly growing climbers in the pea family. The plants are native to North America and Asia but are now cultivated in other parts of the world due to the colorful display of their flowers. In some instances, wisterias have escaped from gardens to become wildflowers which some regions consider noxious weeds.

[Disclaimer: Wisteria contains glycosides in varying amounts. The seeds and pods are especially high in these glycosides, closely followed by the leaves and can be quite toxic. The flowers are edible in moderation. Always make sure you know which parts of the plants are edible before eating them.]

These flowering plants are hardy and thrive in partial shade or full sun. Wisteria prefers to grow in well-drained soils and often requires training to support their weight at maturity. The plants are prized for their beautiful, pendulous, fragrant, pea-like blossoms that come out in spring and endure until summer.

Wisteria has alternate, pinnate leaves while the flowers grow in huge, drooping clusters. Blossoms are purple, white, blue and rose. Common species you are likely to see around include the American wisteria (wisteria frutescens), native to the US, Japanese wisteria (wisteria floribunda), native to Japan, and Chinese wisteria (wisteria sinensis), native to China.

In the language of flowers, wisterias symbolize youth, good luck, vitality, devotion, new births, and affection. Wisteria blossoms are edible and taste similar to sweet lettuce but with subtle notes of tangy grape and peas. The flowers can be eaten raw in a salad or used as a garnish. They can also be cooked and eaten as vegetables.

Wisteria flower and lemon cordial

Ingredients
1 medium-sized cup of fresh wisteria flowers
4 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice
4 tablespoons of sugar
2 pints of water

Process
Wash the blossoms and pluck out the petals
Mix sugar with water in a large saucepan and warm until the sugar has dissolved. When the sugar has dissolved, bring the mixture to a simmer for 3-5 minutes before removing from the heat. Allow the mixture to stand for several minutes to allow it to cool down.

Toss in the wisteria blossoms and add in the lemon juice slowly as you stir. Cover and allow to sit for 3-5 days.

Strain to remove the flowers, pour the mixture into glass bottles with a pop-top and place in the refrigerator.

The cordial has a magical, tangy taste which can be enhanced by adding in more lemon juice. You can also replace sugar with honey depending on your taste.

So you can grow wisteria for food, for ornamental purposes or both. Whichever approach you choose, wisteria will not disappoint.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Baby's breath flowers holds the potential for helping leukemia patients

Baby’s Breath Flower: Leukemia Buster?

February 23, 2020

Baby’s breath, botanically known as gypsophila paniculata, is a genus of perennial flowering herbs in the carnation family. The plant is native to Australia, Eurasia, Pacific Islands, and Africa.

Normally, when you come across baby’s breath growing in clumps, the plants look like round, bluish-green or gray bushes. The plant features lance-like leaves, wiry stems and tiny white, blue, rose or pink flowers that bloom from spring to summer.

Baby’s breath was introduced to North American gardens in the 1800s as an ornamental plant but soon escaped from gardens and is now found growing in the wild. In the process, the plant also spread to other regions of the world. Baby’s breath can adapt quickly to new climatic conditions and thrive at the expense of indigenous species. As a result, it is considered a weed in some regions and fed to livestock.

The flower is used extensively in the cut flower industry as a filler blossom in bouquets where it is known to blend into a beautiful floral design. Apart from being used as a filler in bouquets, baby’s breath can be used as a bouquet on its own.

About a decade ago, scientists made a startling discovery that could save millions of lives yearly thanks to the baby’s breath blossoms. According to researchers, compounds found in the flower, commonly known as saponins show a significant ability to break down cancer cells. This enhances the ability of cancer drugs to attack the cancer cells thus increasing their efficiency by a million times.

This discovery was made by Leukemia Busters, a charitable organization based in the UK founded by Dr. David Flavell and his wife after their son, Simon Flavell, succumbed to the condition in the 90s. According to Dr. Flavell, this discovery is likely to change how anti-body drugs, commonly known as immunotoxins, work which can save many lives.

Currently, the challenge is to find a way to transform the discovery made in the laboratory into a practical solution for treating patients. This is because the initial findings must be taken through clinical trials before they can be available to patients. If all goes well, millions of leukemia patients around the world will benefit from lower doses of drugs in the next 3-5 years.

Nature never ceases to amaze. Here, you have a plant with tiny flowers used as filler blossoms for years, but now holding the potential of giving a new lease of life to not only leukemia patients, but other people struggling with various cancers. Truly, plants are miracles in nature waiting to be discovered!

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

False Daisy for Skincare

February 22, 2020

Eclipta prostrate or eclipta alba, commonly known as false daisy or yerba de tago, is an annual, flowering plant belonging to the aster or sunflower family. The plant is known as a false daisy because its flowers resemble daisy blossoms.

It is native to Australia, Asia, North America, and Africa. False daisy has a fleshy stem and bright green leaves with teeth-like features along the edge. The herb usually flowers depending on the climate it is growing in. In cold areas, it flowers in fall and summer, but in regions with warmer conditions, the plant flowers all year round. False daisy produces 2-3, tiny, tubular flowers on each stalk, featuring white or yellow petals.

False daisy loves moisture and thrives in well-watered areas. The plant can grow in boggy and wet soils and rarely does well in dry areas. Basically, false daisy only thrives in hot, dry areas when it is constantly watered to simulate its natural habitat.

The herb’s aerial parts (flowers, leaves, and shoots) are edible. These can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a green vegetable. Apart from being edible, false daisy is also used in Chinese traditional medicine as well as Ayurvedic medicine. It is commonly used as a healing herb to treat kidney and liver diseases. False daisy is also used in the skincare industry as the aerial parts of the plant are known to contain compounds that are highly beneficial to the skin. These components, including vitamin E, help in conditioning, rejuvenating and protecting the skin against the effects of premature aging.

So, what is the secret behind false daisy’s effectiveness in the skincare industry? Well, the plant contains several flavonoids including luteolin. This compound penetrates deep into the skin promoting wound healing, reducing inflammation and protecting the skin against the effects of free radicals.

Extracts from the plant can be used topically or ingested to help clear out toxins that contribute to premature aging and other skin-related problems. Other beneficial compounds that make the plant beneficial include polypeptides, thiophene, coumestans, triterpenes, polyacetylenes, and steroids.

In a study conducted in 2008, researchers noticed that male rats using oil extracted from the plant had a high number of hair follicles compared to rats not using the oil. As a result, the researchers concluded that false daisy has a significant ability to prevent hair loss and boost hair growth. The study was conducted on rats and is awaiting clinical trials on humans in order to be deemed conclusive. However, false daisy holds a lot of potential in resolving skin problems.

Though known as false daisy for its striking resemblance to the daisy flowers, eclipta prostrate’s capabilities in the skincare industry are not false.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Marsh Marigold: Beyond Floral Beauty

February 20, 2020

Marsh marigold, also known as King’s cup, bull’s eyes, water blobs, verrucaria, and meadow routs, and botanically referred to as caltha palustris, is a showy, perennial, flowering plant belonging to the buttercup family.

It has hollow, rounded stems with leaves growing on long stalks. The plant flowers from March to June with showy, yellow flowers occurring at the end of stems. The flowers look more like buttercups compared to marigolds.

Marsh marigold is a common sight in wetlands, riverbanks, and waterways. It grows in semi-shade conditions and can grow in both alkaline and acidic soils. Marsh marigold is highly selfish and normally inhibits the growth of nearby plants. In some regions, marsh marigold is considered invasive.

The plant’s generic name is borrowed from a Greek word “calathos”, meaning a goblet or cup. This is due to the shape of its blossoms which resemble a goblet. The second name “palus”, is derived from a Latin word for marsh, the habitat the plant grows in.

Its second English name, marigold, is due to the plant’s use in church festivals, especially in the middle ages. During this period, marsh marigold was associated with devotion to the Virgin Mary. Marigold blossoms were also a common sight on May Day festivals when the flowers were made into garlands or strewn on doorsteps.

Marsh marigold was given the name verrucaria because of its ability to cure warts. Its dried flowers were burned and the resulting smoke inhaled to help in treating seizures in adults while an infusion of the flowers was administered to children and adults to treat seizures. In some instances, a more diluted version of the floral infusion was used to treat anemia.

Marsh marigold’s buds have been used as a caper substitute but the practice is not common because they are bitter and contain toxins. To take the edge off their acidity and toxicity, the buds are tossed in vinegar and allowed to sit in it for a while. Though the whole plant contains protoanemonin glycoside which is toxic, the glycoside is easily destroyed by heat.

Normally, marsh marigold leaves and flowers are harvested in spring just as the plant comes into bloom and cooked as a spinach substitute. To make it palatable and get rid of the acidity as well as toxicity, cook it in two or more changes of water.

Apart from being highly palatable, marsh marigold is diuretic, expectorant, antispasmodic, anodyne, and rubefacient.

And there you have it. A great multi-purpose flower that is beyond aesthetic value, ideal for your garden.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Horse heal, botanically known as inula helenium is ideal for lung health

Horseheal for Lung Health

February 19, 2020

Horseheal, also known as wild sunflower, scabwort, and botanically referred to as elecampagne, or inula helenium, is a flowering plant belonging to the sunflower family.

It is native to Asia, and Europe, but is now naturalized in most regions around the globe including North America. Horseheal’s spread was mainly because it is considered an ornamental plant due to its bright flowers. In addition, its herbal value also played a part in its spreading.

Horseheal is a bristly, perennial plant that grows in damp meadows, abandoned fields, and roadsides. It thrives in damp conditions especially in fertile, loamy soils with sufficient drainage. The plant has alternate, pointed leaves featuring toothed margins. Its blossoms resemble miniature sunflowers with multiple, notched rays. The flowers come forth in July and August.

The name helenium is said to have originated from popular Greek folklore holding that Helen of Troy carried these flowers when she was captured. According to the folklore, horseheal flowers would sprout up on the ground her tears fell on.

Wild sunflower has always been a highly regarded herbal remedy and is constantly used and mentioned in Ayurvedic as well as Chinese medicine. In its heydays, the plant was listed in the US Pharmacopeia and was commonly used to make cough syrups and lozenges. In addition, ancient Greek and Roman physicians widely prescribed the plant for various ailments.

Scabwort was named horseheal because it was commonly used to treat horses before the advent of modern medicine. During this period, animal health practitioners used the plant to treat pulmonary conditions in horses. It was also used to treat scabs in sheep, hence the name scabwort. Basically, the parts of horseheal considered medicinal are the roots and flowers.

Modern studies have confirmed that horseheal does indeed contain medicinal properties just as ancient herbalists and physicians believed. Extracts from the flowers and roots of the plant have been shown to have bacteria-inhibiting properties. Studies have discovered that elecampagne is highly effective in killing staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that causes various infections including pneumonia and has become resistant to most standard antibiotics.

Respiratory health
Horseheal is known to be highly effective in treating most of the common respiratory problems including cold, bronchitis, asthma and congestion. It has volatile oils with expectorant and warming qualities which make it effective in decongesting airways and soothing coughs. Horseheal is also one of the plants that have been shown to have the potential in treating tuberculosis effectively.

Good for gastrointestinal health
Elecampane is used to stimulate the digestive system due to the presence of a bitter compound known as helenin. It is also commonly used to eliminate intestinal worms and parasites as it contains alantolactone.

Horseheal is almost the perfect flower to have in your garden. It will bring you some cheer and help in keeping you and your pets healthy.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Want a Happy Uterus? Try Lady’s Mantle

February 17, 2020

Lady’s mantle, also known as dew cup, nine hooks, our lady’s mantle and botanically known as alchemilla vulgaris, is a flowering plant belonging to the rose family. It is easily found along pathways, roadsides, and grasslands.

Nine hooks is a domesticated perennial, it is native to Europe and Greenland. While alchemilla vulgaris is the most popular variety, there are as many as 350 species in Europe and around the world.

The name alchemilla is borrowed from the word alchemy. This refers to an ancient tradition holding that dewdrops forming on the plant’s leaves had mystic powers. The drops were said to have the ability to change common metals into gold. In addition, the dewdrops were believed to help people regain their youth.

Dew cup has erect stems and kidney-shaped leaves. It flowers from June to September, bringing forth tiny yellow blossoms with green stripes. The plant thrives in fertile, well-drained soil and can grow in full sun or partial shade.

Lady’s mantle flowers attract little or no attention and are not very popular with florists. In spite of the plain flowers, this plant has a secret weapon that awes the world. Dew cup has a curious ability enabling its leaves to capture and hold dewdrops via a process known as guttation. The dewdrops hang on the tips of the rough-edged leaves giving the plant a highly captivating look in the morning.

While early morning strollers are awed by its silvery early morning look as the light bounces off the dew drops, and mystics grapple to explain the mysteries of the glistening dew, herbalists swear by the plant for its medicinal purposes. Lady’s mantle has been used for generations to treat various conditions, especially gynecological issues. The plant is such a highly regarded herbal treatment for gynecological problems that its tisane is fondly referred to as “happy uterus tea”.

Lady’s mantle flowers and leaves are harvested when the plant comes to bloom. These aerial parts are dried and stored in a cool place until they are required to make the famous tisane.

Alternative cure enthusiasts say that the fresh tisane made from the plant is magical. To make the infusion, take several dried flowers and leaves, steep them in hot water until the mixture cools down sufficiently. Strain to get rid of the herbal debris and enjoy the infusion.

The happy uterus tea is revered by herbalists for its effectiveness in relieving, managing and treating various gynecological problems throughout a woman’s life. It relieves aching during menses, stops and prevents spotting and assists to heal the reproductive system after delivery. It is also great for menopausal and post-menopausal problems.

And what more shall we say about this awesome plant? Lady’s mantle is a plant you should have around your house. Do not worry about the plant’s plain appearance, its benefits outweigh its inconspicuousness.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Eyebright for Eye Problems

February 16, 2020

Eyebright or eyewort, botanically known as euphrasia officials, is a wildflower in the orobanchaceae family. It is native to Europe, North America, and Asia.

The plant’s botanical name, euphrasia, is a Greek word for gladness. This refers to the feeling of happiness people experience when their eye problems are finally resolved after using the herb.

Eyewort mostly grows in poor soils and has parasitic tendencies. This explains why it can grow in poor soils as it derives part of its nurture from the plants it preys on. In summer, eyebright produces tiny, white flowers with purple and yellow hues close to the center.

Eyebright’s leaves, flowers, and stems have been used as a herbal folk cure for generations. The plant is normally harvested late in summer when it is in bloom, cut into pieces, dried and stored for later use. The aerial parts of the plant are used to make infusions for washing eyes to get rid of irritations, infections and other common eye problems. Eyebright extracts are also used for supplementary purposes. It contains beneficial compounds such as tannins that have anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is also used for homeopathy purposes.

Eyebright has sufficient levels of thiamine, riboflavin, rutin, and copper. It is also rich in vitamins C, E and zinc, quercetin and luteolin as well as selenium which is ideal for eye health.

Zinc, copper and selenium help in maintaining healthy lenses and retinas while rutin gives nutritional support to the eyes. Quercetin and luteolin are known to inhibit the release of histamine. This is a compound that triggers allergic reactions such as runny eyes or nose.

The availability of these two antiallergens probably explains why eyebright has been used to treat eye conditions and other health problems triggered by allergens. Though there is insufficient scientific evidence supporting ancient herbal knowledge about the effectiveness of eyebright in treating conjunctivitis, there exists a small, inconclusive study published in the 2000 issue of the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. The study sought to evaluate eyebright as a treatment for conjunctivitis.

The study that involved 60 people suffering from conjunctivitis received eyebright extracts in the form of eye drops administered 5 times a day. After 14 days, researchers discovered that 50 of the people previously suffering from conjunctivitis had fully recovered, while 9 showed significant improvement. However, one patient did not respond to the herbal treatment and his condition seemed to worsen.

Basically, eyebright can be applied externally as eye drops or eyewashes. Alternatively, it can be taken internally in 400-500 mg capsules, administered 3 times a day.

Apart from being an ideal eye and allergy treatment, eyebright has been shown to contain a compound known as acubin. Preliminary studies show that acubin reduces the scarring of the heart occurring due to oxidative damage. This effectively minimizes the development of cardiovascular conditions such as heart attacks.

Eyebright may not have very impressive flowers, neither is it a famous herbal remedy. However, this wildflower holds a lot of potential in treating eye problems and managing allergies.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

White Turtlehead: An Old Herb With Tonic Effects

February 15, 2020

White turtlehead, also known as fishmouth, snakehead, shell flower, turtle bloom, and rheumatism wort, is a perennial, flowering herb belonging to the plantain family. The herb, botanically known as chelone glabra, was once categorized under the snapdragon family before botanists moved it to the plantain family.

The plant’s botanical name, chelone glabra, has an interesting history. In popular Greek folklore, Chelone was a haughty mountain nymph who failed to attend the marriage of Zeus and Hera. Zeus was infuriated and punished her by placing Chelone’s house on top of her. The other gods joined in and turned Chelone into a turtle and further condemned her to carry her house forever on her back in silence. In Greek, the word chelone (khelônê) means a turtle or tortoise.

When viewed from the side, white turtlehead’s blossoms look like a little turtle with an open mouth, this striking resemblance is thought to have contributed to its first scientific name. The second scientific name, glabra, is a Latin word for smooth. This refers to the smooth appearance of the plant as it does not have hair on the stem or leaves.

Rheumatism wort is native to North, Eastern and Central America as well as Canada. The plant’s natural habitat is known to stretch from Georgia to Mississippi in the US and Manitoba to Newfoundland, Canada.

White turtlehead thrives in swampland margins, bogs, wetlands and gardens in wooded areas. It prefers fertile, wet or moist soils with some shade.

Fishmouth has erect stems and elongated leaves occurring opposite each other. It blooms in late summer, producing creamy white or pink-tinged flowers. Fertilized flowers are replaced by flat, winged, seed capsules. The flat shape and wings help in dispersing the seed by floating on water or being blown around by the wind.

White turtlehead has been used for generations in the herbal field. The plant is harvested when in full bloom and dried for medicinal purposes. It is considered a bitter herb with vermifuge, anthelmintic, cathartic, and digestive properties. The bitter, tea-like qualities make it ideal for making tisane used for treating various ailments.

Native Americans commonly used the flowers to make an infusion for enhancing digestion, treating wounds, and fever. It was also used to dry and cure skin sores and prevent conception.

An infusion derived from this plant has tonic effects and is commonly used for treating indigestion, gallbladder and liver conditions. The infusion is also used to treat mental disorders including depression.

Ultimately, white turtlehead is an interesting plant that you should have in your garden for ornamental and herbal purposes.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Common Sugarbush, The Honey Flower

February 13, 2020

Protea repens, also known as the common sugarbush, true sugarbush or sugarbush, is an evergreen flowering shrub belonging to the protea genus. It is native to South Africa and highly popular around the world. In the US, the shrub mostly grows in plant hardiness zones 8 to 11.

Sugarbushes thrive in sunny places. They are easy to grow, highly tolerant and will grow in poor soils. Common sugarbushes can be propagated via seeds or cuttings. These shrubs are grown for their ornamental value as they have colorful flowers that bloom for long periods and for their sweet nectar.

The sugarbush was among the first plant in the genus described by the Swedish physician and botanist, Carl Linnaeus. For years, the plant was known as protea mellifera, meaning honey-bearing plant due to its high nectar content. Carl described it as protea repens, meaning the creeping protea, which was erroneous. The Swedish botanist named the plant based on Herman Boerhaave’s illustrations which were wrong.

Boerhaave, a Dutch physician, chemist and botanist had two different illustrations: one showing protea repens and the other of a creeping species. Carl based his description on the creeping plant, hence the name repens, for a creeper. Even when the older name was discovered, it was never restored to the sugarbush. The name repens is misleading because the sugarbush is not a creeping shrub but an upright, branched plant.

The common sugarbush features leathery, elongated leaves and produces brightly colored flowers in white, red and pink hues. Its blossoms are large and highly sought after in the flower industry. The common sugarbush was the national flower of South Africa for more than 200 years until it was replaced in the mid-70s.

True sugarbush’s nectar is commonly referred to as honey. A single flower head can yield as much as one teaspoon of sweet nectar. More nectar can be obtained during the rainy season when fluid nectar pours out of the flowerheads when shaken. While the plant’s nectar was first discovered in the 1600s, its medicinal use was documented much later in 1781.

Initially, the sticky sugary liquid was collected by harvesting the flowers and shaking the nectar into a jar. The resulting amber nectar was eaten raw or poured into a pan and brought to a simmer until it formed a thick, ruby-colored syrup which was used as a sugar substitute. This explains how the plant got the name “sugarbush”. The syrup was also used to make a herbal remedy known as bossiestroop for treating chest problems including coughs. Unfortunately, the art of making bossiestroop was lost in the 1900s.

There are few plants as famous and beloved as the common sugarbush. It is therefore no surprise that Cape town band leader while on picnic among sugarbushes, composed the world-famous hit “Sugarbush, I want you”.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Lobelia for Asthma and Addictions?

February 11, 2020

Lobelia inflata, commonly known as lobelia, gagroot, asthma weed, pukeweed and wild tobacco, is a flowering perennial herb native to Canada and the eastern region of the US. Lobelia flowers throughout summer and continues to bloom until first frost knocks. It is easy to grow and requires minimal care. The plant produces abundant flowers colored blue, violet, red, and pink. In full bloom, lobelia brings life, beauty, and vibrancy to a garden.

Lobelia has been used in homeopathic and herbal medicine for years. Traditionally, Native American tribes dried the flowers and smoked them to relieve asthma symptoms. In the 19th century, the plant was widely recommended and prescribed by American physicians to induce vomiting for patients who had ingested poisonous substances.

Basically, lobelia contains many beneficial alkaloids including morphine, caffeine, lobeline, and nicotine. However, the most popular compound in lobelia is lobeline, an alkaloid with the ability to treat respiratory problems and assist addicts manage their withdrawal symptoms. Lobelia is used to relieve respiratory conditions including the common cold as it is known to help in clearing airways and expelling mucus from the respiratory tract.

Lobelia assist addicts to kick their habits

One of the unique things that make lobelia stand out among its herbal peers is the potential it holds in assisting addicts to kick their habits due to the presence of lobeline. Scientists have discovered that lobeline is similar to nicotine. This explains why it is used to treat addiction.

In a study published in Physiology & Behavior journal in 2009 researchers sought to investigate the therapeutic effects of lobelia against addictive disorders using mice. The mice were given alcohol in their drinking water and administered with lobeline injections for 5 days.

After 5 days, researchers noticed that lobeline significantly reduced alcohol preference and consumption. Researchers concluded that lobeline, a nicotine receptor, had the potential of treating alcoholism.

Apart from helping alcoholics recover from the habit, lobelia has been used to assist smokers to manage the effects of nicotine withdrawal. The alkaloid is known to achieve this by boosting dopamine levels in the brain.

Before 1993, lobelia was promoted as an effective product for helping people manage withdrawal symptoms. However, in 1993, the FDA banned the products citing a lack of sufficient evidence supporting these claims.

Treatment for mood disorders
Lobeline is thought to have the ability to help in treating mood disorders such as depression and anxiety by blocking receptors in the brain which are responsible for the development of mood disorders, including depression.

Respiratory problems
Lobelia is fondly referred to as the asthma weed for a good reason. Lobeline assists people struggling with asthma attacks to control chest congestion, wheezing and coughing. The alkaloid also assist muscles in the respiratory tract to relax, clear mucus from the lungs, and stimulate breathing. As a result, the plant is used to treat bronchitis and pneumonia.

Though lobelia has been widely used by alternative cure enthusiasts to treat respiratory tract problems, no conclusive studies have been conducted using humans to authenticate these claims.

Lobelia is truly a unique flower: it is beautiful, is not fussy and holds the potential of helping addicts kick their habits.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Zinnia Flower: The Sacred Plant For Life And Wisdom

February 9, 2020

Zinnia is a low, coarse, upright perennial flowering plant native to South and North America. The plant occurs in dry fertile grasslands in full sun and rarely thrives in wet conditions. Zinnia flowers thrive in hot weather and bloom throughout summer. The flowers come in various colors including red, yellow, orange, pink, white and lavender.

Since zinnias commonly occur in Mexico as wildflowers, Spanish colonialists initially named them “evil eyes” because they did not find the blossoms appealing. Later, the flowers were named after the 18th-century German botanist, Johann Gottfried Zinn.

Today, zinnias are popular throughout the world due to their beauty and longevity as cut flowers, as they can last for almost two weeks in a vase. The flowers are easy to grow and quite hardy. They have few pests and diseases, thus requiring minimal care. Zinnias can grow almost anywhere, as long as there is sufficient sunlight and water. This explains why zinnias were among the first flowers grown successfully on the International Space Station.

Zinnia blossoms have been used by native southwestern tribes in rituals and for medicinal purposes for years. This explains why the Navajo tribe viewed zinnia flowers as a sacred life medicine while the Pueblo people fed the blossoms to children, believing that the plant made kids eloquent and intelligent.

In the 20th century, zinnias gained a lot of popularity. During this period the drive was for big things, such as big cars, big houses, big money, and even big dreams. Big was the in-thing in the US. It was therefore in order for American technology to produce big flowers, especially zinnias in keeping with that drive. This dilemma was quickly solved by the introduction of dahlia-flowered zinnia, which is a mutation of zinnia with huge blossoms, commonly known as giant dahlia and California giant. These varieties normally feature double petals and multiple colors.

While there are dozens of zinnia species, the most common zinnia you are likely to encounter is zinnia elegans. This flower features single or double blossoms in cherry rose, purple, pink, salmon, white, cream, lavender or pale green colors.

In recent years, studies have proved what ancient wisdom always held, that zinnias have beneficial properties. The major beneficial compounds in zinnia flowers include saponins, glycosides, flavonoids, steroids, and phenols.

Antioxidant
Zinnia has been shown to have antioxidative qualities. This compound is probably part of the reason why the flower was revered by ancient tribes. In a study involving rats with CCl4-induced toxicity, zinnia extracts were shown to have a significant ability to suppress toxicity in the rats. In addition, the extracts seemed to improve the lipid profile of HDL and LDL. Zinnias are also known to have antifungal, phytoremediative, anthelmintic and hepatoprotective properties.

Now, whenever you see zinnias in all their beauty, have some respect for these ancient flowers as they still have the ability to enhance your health and probably impart some wisdom.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Crown Flower: Good For Diabetics?

February 8, 2020

Calotropis gigantea, commonly known as crown flower, or giant milkweed, is a shrub belonging to the milkweed family. The plant occurs in tropical and subtropical regions and rarely grows in cold areas.

[Disclaimer: Crown flower’s leaves and stems produce a toxic milky sap when bruised. Native tribes dipped their arrowheads into the sap to make poisoned arrows for hunting prey. The sap is known to cause keratoconjunctivitis and loss of vision and hence should be used with caution. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Crown flower is native to Asia but was introduced to the Pacific region, Africa, Central and Southern America as an ornamental plant. In some regions, the plant was introduced accidentally and became a noxious weed.

The giant milkweed is an attractive, evergreen, flowering shrub that grows along roadsides, waterways, dry coastal areas, and disturbed places. The shrub has oblong leaves on opposite sides of each other. They are mildly leathery and feature a fine layer of soft hair. It produces hermaphroditic, light green-yellow, lilac, purple or rose blossoms with a subtle fragrance from March to October.

Antidiabetic
Crown flower has compounds with antidiabetic effects that are said to have the potential of helping diabetics deal with the condition. Studies show that the flowers and leaves of the giant milkweed hold a lot of potential in treating diabetes. These studies indicate that extracts of the crown flower are capable of boosting the sensitivity to insulin and enhance the production of inulin.

In a study published in PubMed Central, researchers sought to find out the antidiabetic and hypoglycemic effect of crown flower blossoms and leaves. For this study, researchers used rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes and normal rats.

The normal rats were given an oral treatment of chloroform extract of giant milkweed flowers and leaves at 10,20,50 mg/kg. To test glucose tolerance, glucose was administered to the rats alongside the leaf and blossom extract at oral doses of 10,20 and 50 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg of glibenclamide. Rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes were given similar doses of standard drugs and crown flower extracts

After 27 days, crown flower extracts were shown to have a significant ability to lower glucose levels in normal rats. In addition, there was a significant reduction in glucose levels in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes.

As a result of the observations made above, researchers concluded that giant milkweed flower and leaf extracts have potent antidiabetic effects.

So, while the crown flower plant has a toxic sap, it also contains beneficial compounds that can be harnessed to manage diabetes. However, more studies should be conducted to evaluate the effects of crown flower’s beneficial compounds versus the plant’s toxic alkaloids.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Glorious, Lethal And Beneficial: Meet The Controversial Flame Lily

February 4, 2020

Glorious superba, commonly known as flame lily, glory lily, or climbing lily, is a climbing perennial in the colchicaceae family. The plant is known as climbing lily because it normally scrambles over other plants. The climbing lily uses tendrils to attach itself to other plants or objects for support as it.

[Disclaimer: The flame lily contains colchicine, a highly toxic alkaloid. Ingestion of colchicine is known to cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, severe hemorrhage. If these actions are not reversed, cardiovascular collapse and respiratory depression can occur, leading to death. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Climbing lily’s first botanical name, gloriosa, is due to the glorious beauty associated with the plant. The second name, superba, simply means its blossoms are superb.

The flame lily is largely a tropical and subtropical plant. It is the state flower of the Tamil state in India and a common sight on sand dunes, brushwoods, tropical forests, hillsides and woodlands with loamy or sandy soils. The plant is native to Asia and Africa but is now found growing in Australia, North America and other regions with tropical and subtropical climates.

The glory lily produces brightly colored flowers between October and May. The flowers have varying hues including orange, dark pink, yellow, and red. If the flowers are fertilized, they give way to fleshy capsules containing red seeds.

The flame lily flower is not only glorious but has many beneficial properties. Basically, the main medicinal compound making the flower highly beneficial is colchicine, an alkaloid. Colchicine is effective in treating conditions such as gout conditions, intestinal parasites, and wounds.

But just like a double-edged sword, colchicine, with all of its medicinal benefits has a dark side as it is also highly toxic. Colchicine is known to cause death when ingested in high doses. This means that in order for colchicine to be beneficial without turning toxic, it must be administered by a professional.

Traditionally, herbalists using the flowers to treat gout boiled the blossoms and administered the resulting infusion to gout patients. Alternatively, they rubbed the petals on the painful part to relieve inflammation.

The flame lily is not just good for treating inflammation, it is also used to treat infertility. To make this cure, the blossoms are dried, ground and mixed with raw egg yolk. This mixture is then administered to the woman when she is about to start her menses.

Antispasmodic and emenagogue
The glory lily flower has antispasmodic and emenagogue qualities. It is ideal for treating dysmenorrhea as it relaxes abdominal muscles and enables the easy flow of menstrual blood. These actions assist in relieving abdominal cramps and aches during menses. The flower is also antifungal, antiparasitic, antileprotic, tonic and purgative properties.

The flame lily’s beneficial qualities serve to remind us that much of modern medicine is built on and formed in the natural world. But it also reminds us that just because something is grown in nature doesn’t mean that it can’t be lethal.

It is rare to have a flower with such extreme qualities, but then this is the glorious flame lily we are talking about.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Cock’s Comb: The Funky, Woolly Vegetable

February 3, 2020

Cock’s comb, also known as rooster’s comb, cockscomb, brain celosia, wool flower, and botanically known as celosia, is a flowering herb belonging to the amaranth family.

Cock’s comb flowers come out as compacted crest heads on leafy stems. The plant starts blooming in summer and keeps on till late fall. Cock’s comb flowers come forth in bright gold, red, yellow, and pink. In spite of their showy colors, the flowers have no fragrance.

The plant’s name is derived from its blossom’s resemblance to a rooster’s comb.
The name brain celosia is attributed to its shape which looks like the human brain, while the word celosia is borrowed from the Greek word kelos, which means burned, referring to the brightly colored flowers of some cock’s comb species.

Cockscomb’s origin is attributed to Africa and Asia while some schools of thought attribute it to North and South America. However, its culinary and ornamental value has seen it spread around the world. Today, cockscomb is eaten in Asia, Africa, and America.

The brightly colored, crested blossom heads of the plant are considered ideal for the cut flower industry due to their beauty and longevity in flower vases.

Cock’s comb thrives in hot, well-drained areas with sufficient moisture. It rarely survives frosts and should be planted well into summer as it doesn’t like wet conditions.

The plant is easy to grow both indoors under sufficient light and outdoors in direct sunlight. It is quite independent once planted in an environment simulating its natural habitat and grows effortlessly like a garden weed. If you are looking for a flower to add color, drama, and beauty to your garden or living room, this is your to-go plant.

Cockscomb’s flowers, leaves, and stems are edible. The leaves and stems have a flavor similar to spinach while the flower’s taste often varies depending on where the plant is grown. Rooster’s comb flower is used in soups, stews, and side dishes to meats. The leaves, flowers, and stems can be steamed, or boiled and eaten as a vegetables. To give the dish a kick, you can toss in hot chili to the cooked or stir-fried cockscomb. It is also ideal for smoothies, dressings or sauteed with pepper and salt. In addition, the flowers are great for garnishing salads, cakes, and smoothies and go nicely with various meats.

Cock’s comb is a great source of iron, vitamins, and surprisingly, protein, especially when harvested young. It is also an ideal source of phosphorus and calcium. Apart from its use as a vegetable, cock’s comb is used as a herbal remedy as it has tonic, antidiabetic and laxative properties.

Cock’s comb is such an interesting flower with its crazy shape and colors. It is almost too beautiful for a vegetable but, hey, it’s never a bad idea to eat a good looking flower, right?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food, Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Butterfly pea flower tisane or tea is great for your health

Butterfly Pea Flower: The Famous Blue Tea Flower Of Youth And Vigor

January 30, 2020

Butterfly pea flowers are blossoms of the butterfly pea plant, also referred to as blue butterfly pea, Asian pigeonwings, and blue pea, and botanically known as clitoria ternatea. The plant’s genus name, clitoria, is derived from a Greek word, kreitoris, which refers to the shape of the flower resembling the female genitalia.

The butterfly pea plant is a perennial twining vine, not climbing vine, with trifoliate leaves. The plant prefers to grow in rocky, dry woods. In summer, it produces large, bright blue and purple-blue flowers. Butterfly pea flowers have the characteristic banner wings of blossoms in the pea family, however, unlike other plants in this family, it’s banners are extra large.

While the plant has a name that associates it to a butterfly, it is rarely visited by these insects for pollination. Rather the flower is linked to a butterfly due to it’s expanded petals which resemble the insect with outspread wings.

The blue pea plant is native to Asia and belongs to the fabaceae family. Its deep blue flowers have been used for years to cook, dye and make cosmetics. Traditionally, the flowers have been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to help calm nerves and boost memory.

The primary reason blue butterfly pea flowers are famous the world over is due to a tisane or infusion which is commonly known as blue tea, derived from the blossoms. The tisane is popular in Asian countries but with the recent drive for alternative cures, it has started gaining popularity in western countries.

The tea is made by infusing the petals in hot water for several minutes to allow the blossoms to yield their medicinal compounds and color to the brew. In its purest form, the tisane has a deep blue color but can turn to other colors when other ingredients such as lemon are added to it. The blue tea is popularly used to create a mood cocktail which is made by adding ice cubes or lemon to create rings with different colors in the tea as the ingredients diffuse.

Blue tea is a popular super drink as it is associated with various health benefits. The tisane is known to have weight loss, immune-enhancing qualities, relaxing, analgesic, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and cognitive boosting effects. These qualities explain why the tisane is fondly known as the elixir for youth and vigor.

Blue butterfly pea flower tea is also a great, refreshing beverage for afternoon tea parties and after dinner, and is commonly enjoyed in spas. Apart from being a refreshing beverage, blue tea is used in rice dishes to produce blue-colored rice. The colored dishes are commonly eaten with salads, fish, fried duck, and pickles.

Now, if you are looking for a super tisane to give you a health boost, complete with colorful effects, its time to grow butterfly pea or order some blossoms from a specialty store.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Gardenia Flowers: Sweet And Sensual

January 27, 2020

Gardenia, or cape jasmine, and botanically known as gardenia jasminoides, is a flowering shrub belonging to the rubiaceae family. It is closely related to cinnamon and your aromatic, bitter-sweet morning brew: coffee. It is native to Asia especially China, Japan, Vietnam, Myanmar, and India. Today, the plant has spread to other regions including Europe and the US.

Gardenia has green, shiny leaves and highly fragrant white blossoms. The plant is commonly cultivated in tropical and subtropical gardens. In addition, gardenia makes for a great indoor plant as long as you can simulate its natural habitat.

The name gardenia is said to have been attributed to Alexander Garden, a physician, botanist and zoologist who lived in South Carolina and was instrumental in the classification of various plants.

In China, gardenia has been cultivated for centuries but was only introduced in European gardens in the 18th century. Historically, gardenia symbolizes devotion, purity, trust, love, and refinement. These qualities explain why gardenia flowers are commonly used in wedding bouquets.

For years, people have extracted essential oils from gardenia flowers. The oil extracted from gardenia flowers is rare compared to famous oils such as jasmine, lavender, and rose. Gardenia oil is commonly used in Ayurveda, yoga, beauty and cosmetics industries.

Traditionally, perfumers and herbalists extracted gardenia oil using odorless animal fats via a process known as the enfleurage method. The oil was then separated from the animal fats using alcohol. Extracting the oil using this traditional method takes several months which makes the oil expensive and out of reach for most people.

Gardenia’s essential oil has a strong, sweet, seductive, alluring aroma with floral notes. The oil is commonly used in wedding ceremonies due to its sweet, innocent, seductive properties. It pairs well with other essential oils such as lavender, jasmine, citrus, ylang-ylang, and bergamot.

Phytochemical evaluation of gardenia flowers indicates that they contain more than 20 compounds that are ideal for combating modern health threats. The oil contains linalool, benzyl, ursolic acid, phenyl acetates, terpineol, stigmasterol, rutin, phenylpropanoid glycosides, and crociniridoids.

Gardenia health benefits include:

Boosting moods and alleviating anxiety
Gardenia oil has been used to help people suffering from depression and anxiety for years. Studies show that the oil triggers chemical responses in the brain that regulate emotions and moods.

Antibacterial
Gardenia flower oil has strong antibacterial effects making it ideal for treating bacterial problems such as tetanus, sepsis E.coli, and salmonella.

Inflammatory
Gardenia is rich in antioxidants. These are compounds that help in reducing the effects of free radicals. In addition, the oil contains genipin and geniposide; compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. It is also good for reducing cholesterol, glucose intolerance, and liver damage.

While gardenia may never outshine coffee in popularity, it is a great flowering shrub to have in your garden for ornamental and herbal reasons.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Freesia flower fragrance is subtle, intense and seductive

Freesia Flowers: Subtle, Intense And Seductive

January 25, 2020

Freesia is a herbaceous flowering plant belonging to the iridacea family. The plant usually grows from perennial bulbs which remain dormant under the ground when the aerial parts die off during winter. Freesia is named after Friedrich Freese, a German doctor, and botanist.

Freesia is native to South Africa, especially the Cape Province region. Today, the flowers are cultivated all over the world including the Netherlands which accounts for 80 percent of the freesias grown in the world.

Normally, freesias are propagated by seeds or via corms. Plants propagated from seeds usually take longer compared to those grown from corms.

Freesias are grown for their beautiful, funnel-shaped fragrant flowers that come out in springtime. The flowers are white, pink, red, or yellow depending on the cultivar. Most freesias are considered wildflowers but some varieties are cultivated for ornamental purposes.

These flowering plants prefer well-drained soils and regular watering or adequate rainfall to thrive. To achieve optimal growth and flowering, freesias require full sunlight, however, freesia can grow indoors as long as they get 6-8 hours of direct sunlight.

Freesias are considered delicate plants and rarely survive freezing temperatures. Thankfully, their bulbs hibernate throughout winter, giving the flowers a chance to spring up when the ground begins to warm. In the US, freesia should be planted during the fall in USDA hardiness zones 9-10 and in spring for zones 4-8. However, since freesias are tropical and subtropical plants, most gardeners and florists in the US struggle to cultivate them as it is difficult to simulate their natural habitat.

Freesia flowers are highly sought after in the cut flower industry as the blossoms can last up to a week. They are also highly fragrant and are commonly used in beauty products such as creams, shampoos, and scented candles. The fragrance is often described as feminine, delicate, subtle and intensive with flora freshness. The flowers also contain high levels of linalool, a terpene alcohol with antiinflammatory properties that has a fresh floral aroma with citrus notes.

In the beauty and cosmetics industry, perfumers have tried to capture the essence of freesia fragrance with little success. Today, most perfumers who claim to have freesia scent in their products create the fragrance synthetically. However, freesia’s fragrance is successfully captured in the beauty and aromatherapy industry by steeping the flowers in bathwater to extract its volatile oil which is great for uplifting moods and relaxing to the body and mind.

Traditionally, and in the language of flowers, freesias symbolized purity and innocence. They also symbolize friendship, charm, and sweetness.

Ultimately, freesias’ beauty and fragrance are recognized and acknowledged the world over which explains why flower enthusiasts swear by them. These plants will not only make your garden or yard look and smell amazing, but you can also pluck the flowers and toss them into your bath water after a nerve-wracking day to calm your nerves.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Is Yellow Bell An Anticancer?

January 23, 2020

Tecoma stans, commonly known as yellow bell, esperanza, yellow elder, trumpet bush, yellow trumpet bush, and trumpet flower, is a perennial flowering shrub belonging to the bignoniaceae family.

Yellow bell is native to Central America and North America but has become established in other tropical and subtropical regions in Asia, Africa, and Australia. In the US, it occurs in USDA hardiness zones 7-11.

The shrub flowers from June to January bringing forth yellow, trumpet-shaped, fragrant flowers. The flowers are showy, making it a popular ornamental and landscaping plant.

Apart from being an ornamental shrub, yellow bell flowers have been used in folk medicine to treat many illnesses including cancer for years. Traditionally, the plant was used to lower blood glucose by South America and Latin American natives.

Basically, tecomine, an alkaloid, is one of the main medicinal compounds isolated from the plant. Tecomine is known to have hypoglycemic effects which explain why the plant is ideal for treating type 2 diabetes.

In a study published in the Pharmaturtor journal, yellow bell flower extracts have been evaluated for anticancer activity. Preliminary screening of the blossoms showed that they contain phenols, steroids, triterpenes, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and anthraquinones.

Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds occurring naturally in plants that have the ability to protect the body against cancer cells. Studies have shown that eating foods that are high in flavonoids is closely linked to low cancer risk as these compounds inhibit the carcinogenic process in various stages.

For this study, researchers used male albino rats. The rats were fed with standard pellet diet and water. The animals were divided into several groups including a normal control group, rats induced with cancer, rats induced with cancer and treated with 20mg of 5-flourouracil and two groups treated with 200mg and 400mg of the blossoms respectively.

After 14 days, researchers noticed that the flower extract inhibited the growth of cancerous cells as the dosage and concentration of extracts increased.

In another study published in PubMed Central, the flowers of the yellow bell were tested for anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties. The anti-inflammatory properties were evaluated using the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema technique while the antinociceptive properties were tested using Swiss mice of both sexes. The studies showed that the extract possessed antiinflammatory effects just like standards pharmaceutical drugs used to manage inflammation. In addition, the extracts were shown to have antinociceptive effects with the ability to inhibit prostaglandin pathways.

So, is yellow bell an anticancer flower? Judging from the evidence laid out in the above studies, yellow bell flowers seems to hold a lot of promise for cancer therapy.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Butterfly Ginger: A Fragrant Flower Deserving A Place In Your Garden

January 20, 2020

Hedychium coronarium, commonly known as butterfly ginger, butterfly ginger lily, ginger lily, or garland lily, is a perennial, herbaceous member of the zingiberaceae or ginger family. It has green, smooth leaves resembling daggers that grow on opposite sides of each other on the stem.

Ginger lily is native to tropical Asia, especially the Himalaya area but has spread to other tropical and subtropical regions of the world. In the US, the herb is ideal in plant hardiness zones 8-11. The garland lily is quite hardy and can adapt to new environments quite fast. As a result, some countries such as Brazil, Hawaii and New Zealand have categorized the plant as an invasive species.

Curiously, butterfly ginger is the national flower of Cuba but is not native to the island though it is a popular plant there. Being a tropical plant, garland lily normally grows in places with partial or full sunlight. Unlike most tropical plants, this type of ginger can grow in the shade, which makes it an ideal potted plant. However, if you intend to grow butterfly ginger in a pot, you need a large container as it can quickly fill the largest pot with rhizomes which can quickly split even the strongest of the pots.

While most ginger species rarely blossom, butterfly ginger regularly produces white, gold, orange or yellow flowers with a strong, sweet fragrance, which makes it ideal for outdoor flower gardens. Flowers emerge from tube-like bracts with blossom buds peeking out from an inflorescent resembling a cone. Just as the name suggests, butterfly ginger blossoms look like butterflies with their wings open and ready to take to the skies. The flowers only last a day and if successfully pollinated, they turn into oval-shaped orange fruits.

The garland lily has been used as an ornamental plant in flower gardens and yards for years. Its fragrant blossoms are used in the beauty industry as they contain essential oils ideal for soaps, perfumes, and aromatherapy. The essential oil also gives the plant medicinal powers. Butterfly ginger flower extracts are used to treat ailments including indigestion, flatulence, parasitic worms, rheumatism, and alleviate symptoms of cold and flu.

Apart from their use in the perfume and medicine industries, butterfly ginger flower buds are used for culinary purposes. The blossoms are best when harvested early in the morning and eaten when still fresh or wrapped in a plastic bag and stored in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for later use.

The flowers can be used in salads to give it the signature ginger flavor or tossed into soups. They can also be stir-fried or steeped in hot water together with Chinese tea and fresh lemon to make a refreshing beverage.

Except for its ability to proliferate rapidly and become obnoxious in some regions with ideal growing conditions, butterfly ginger is a perfect ornamental plant. It is highly versatile and can grow in an outdoor flower garden or indoors.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Dahlia, The Edible And Medicinal National Flower Of Mexico

January 17, 2020

Dahlia is a genus of perennial, herbaceous, flowering plants native to Mexico. The plant is a member of the asteraceae family alongside zinnia, daisy, and sunflower. Dahlia is the national flower of Mexico and one of the popular flowers among competitive flower growers in the world.

The dahlia genus consists of about 50 species with many different cultivars grown in gardens as ornamental plants. It has leafy stems that normally produce a single flower head per stem. The flowers are brightly colored with a wide variety of hues, but curiously dahlia is not known to produce blue blossoms.

Aztecs were the first people known to cultivate dahlias for their starchy tubers which were eaten as potato substitutes. Here, they were highly regarded and closely linked to the sun gods. The plants are known to have antibiotic quality while the inulin in the dahlia tubers was used as a natural sweetener. In addition, Aztecs used the blossoms and stems of the plants to carry water, especially on hunting expeditions as the plants store huge reserves of water in their stems. In the Hildago region of Mexico, ancient records show that dahlia flowers were used during the Toltec period to treat various ailments including epilepsy.

Dahlias are named after a renown Swedish botanist, Andreas Dahl who was also a student of Carl Linnaeus. During the 1800s, dahlia became famous as it was fronted as a substitute for potatoes. Later, people decided that dahlias were better off as ornamental plants rather than food. However, dahlia petals are still consumed by adding to salads while tubers are cooked and eaten as vegetables. The petals are commonly used to garnish desserts, cakes, and tarts.

Most of Aztec’s herbal and culinary knowledge about the plant was lost in the course of the Spanish Inquisition. Later, botanists were dispatched to Mexico to find herbs useful to Spain. It is at this time that Francisco Hernandez, one of the Spanish botanists, discovered dahlia growing in the wild. The renewed interest in the plant-inspired Antonio Cavinilles to grow several varieties of dahlia at the Royal Botanical Garden in Madrid where they were named after Dahl, the Swedish botanist.

Dahlia’s popularity as a long-lasting cut flower contributed to its journey to the US. Here, it became highly popular and eventually became the official flower of Seattle and San Francisco.

Ultimately, if you a flower enthusiast, dahlia is one of the high-value, sought after ornamental plants you want growing in your flower garden or yard.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Oleander: Beautiful, Deadly But Good For Heart Conditions Under Medical Supervision

January 15, 2020

Nerium oleander, also known as pink oleander, Jericho rose, oleander, kaner, rosa francesa, rosebay, and rose laurel, is a flowering shrub in the dogbane family. It is native to Asia but has spread to other regions including Africa and North America due to its showy flowers. In the US, oleander occurs in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.

The plant has green, leathery and paired leaves that are linear or elliptic. It brings forth flowers in clusters borne on terminal branches. The blossoms have a funnel shape with five petals and are highly fragrant. Flowers come out in red, pink, white, yellow or peach colors.

Pink oleander is an easy plant to grow and does not require a lot of care, unlike most ornament plants. Though it prefers to grow in sunny places, pink oleander can grow in partial shade. In addition, Jericho rose can adapt to harsh growing conditions including salty areas, wetlands, and dry soils.

[Disclaimer: Ingesting oleander is known to cause nausea, dizziness, loss of consciousness, weak pulse and death due to heart failure. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

This beautifully flowering shrub prefers to grow in well-drained, moist soil with plenty of sunlight. In the wild, it is easily found growing along river banks and streams. Normally, rosebay is cultivated in gardens and yards for its lovely green foliage and beautiful, fragrant flowers. It is also widely used as a hedge and for landscaping.

While oleander is considered an ornamental plant and is commonly cultivated for its beautiful flowers, you should never get fooled by its beauty as kaner is highly toxic. The plant’s beauty has fooled countless people including kids into eating the blossoms or leaves, only to end up in the emergency room.

Basically, oleander (flowers, leaves, stems, and roots) has two toxic cardiac glycosides: neriine and oleanderin. These two compounds are hard to deactivate or eliminate, as demonstrated by their presence in the smoke when kaner plants are burned.

The presence of cardiac glycosides in the plant means that it can be used in the treatment of cardiovascular conditions. The glycosides are similar to those found in digitalis purpurea, commonly known as foxglove, the plant used to produce digitalis, a drug for treating cardiovascular conditions. In addition, kaner has antimicrobial, astringent, antibacterial and anticancer properties. These compounds make it ideal for use in the treatment of scabies, diabetes, corns, asthma, wounds, and epilepsy.

All that said, again, don’t go eating oleander out of the garden – it takes a medical professional with knowledge to prescribe the compounds make from oleander, compounds that are manufactured by other professionals.

Oleander is another good example of the many plants with showy flowers that are ideal for ornamental purposes but with deadly toxins. But just like other deadly plants such as foxglove, the toxins can be harnessed for medicinal purposes.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Santan flowers are good for your health and palates

Santan Flowers: Good For Your Health And Palates

January 7, 2020

Santan, also known as jungle flame, and botanically referred to as ixora coccinea, is a dense, flowering shrub in the rubiaceae family. It is native to Sri Lanka and India but is now a popular ornamental and hedge shrub in most tropical and subtropical regions of the world. In the US, it thrives in USDA zones 9 and above.

Santan’s leaves are either stalkless or have very short stalks and feature an oblong or heart shape with a blunt tip. The plant brings forth beautiful red, white, orange or pink flowers in dense clusters borne on short stalks. Normally, santan blooms all year round.

While santan is cultivated mostly for ornamental or hedge purposes, it has many other benefits. The leaves and flowers of the plant have medicinal and culinary qualities. These parts contain flavonoids, phenolic acids, quercetin, cyanidin, and ferulic acid. Phytochemical screening has also yielded glycosides, alkaloids, steroids, tannins, saponins, and resins.

The compounds mentioned above give the plant sedative, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antitumor, hepatoprotective, chemoprotective, cytotoxic, analgesic and antimutagenic properties.

In folk medicine, santan flowers have been used to treat leucorrhea and dysentery. Deconcotions of the blossoms were also used to treat amenorrhea, hemoptysis, hypertension, bronchitis, loss of appetite, dysmenorrhea, and gonorrhea. In addition, santan flower extracts were used to bath babies with skin infections and wash inflamed eyes.

Wound healing

Studies conducted in the 2000s to evaluate the healing capabilities of the flower extract on wounded rats showed an increase in tensile strength and granuloma tissue weight. Researchers concluded that the healing power of santan flower extracts was due to increased collagen deposition, maturation, and alignment.

Chemoprotective

Studies show that santan flowers have chemoprotective qualities. In a study involving mice with cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity, researchers established that administration of santan flower extracts protected the mice against drug-induced hepatoxicity. The action of the flower extracts was attributed to the presence of ursolic acid and triterpenoids.

Antiasthma and anti-inflammatory
In a study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 2011, researchers sought to study the effects of santan leaf extracts in asthmatic rats. The study showed that santan inhibited AHR in OVA-induced asthma and suppressed eosinophilia. The extracts were shown to lower inflammation while repairing epithelial cells. As a result, researchers concluded that santan has antiasthmatic and antiinflammatory capabilities.

Apart from having medicinal qualities, santan flowers are edible. Foragers regularly talk of plucking the flowers in the wild and sucking on the sweet nectar. The petals also make great snacks when tossed into batter and mixed thoroughly. The mixture is deep-fried until it is crisp and served with any dipping sauce including tomato.

So, you can choose to grow santans for their beautiful flowers, for medicinal reasons or culinary purposes. Whatever the reason that drives you to grow these beautiful flowers, your efforts will be richly rewarded when they come into bloom.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Turmeric Flowers: Superfood Or Myth?

January 5, 2020

Turmeric, also known as Indian saffron, and botanically known as curcuma longa, or curcuma aromatica, is a flowering plant in the zingiberaceae (ginger) family. It is thought to have originated from India before spreading to Africa, Asia and other regions of the world including North America.

Traditionally, turmeric was used for years in folk medicine in Asia to treat illnesses such as acute and chronic pain as well as respiratory conditions. Ancient Egyptians commonly exploited the plant as a herbal remedy or dye for coloring their clothes as early as 1500 BC. In modern times, turmeric is used as a spice. It is one of the main components of curry powder. The plant’s extracts are also used as supplements in the form of pills. Turmeric is such a potent supplement that it is considered a wonder or superfood. It is also used as an herbal remedy to treat various conditions.

Most of the turmeric you see in food and spice stores comes from the plant’s rhizomes which are normally dried and ground into a fine powder. However, there are other beneficial parts of the plant including its blossoms.

Turmeric brings forth funnel-shaped flowers with pink, white and yellow colors. The flowers emerge in summer between leafy bracts or modified leaves of the turmeric plant. They have a pungent smell just like the rest of the plant.

The flowers are quite rare as the plant does not come into bloom very often. In spite of being rare, the flowers are very beautiful and have songs sang in praise of their beauty in Hawaii. Turmeric flowers are edible and have a lettuce-like flavor.

The flowers can be eaten raw as a vegetable salad or chopped, stir-fried and served with onions, beans, and fried lobster. They can also be added to pasta or rice to give these dishes an aromatic flavor.

Since the flowers are highly delicate and do not store well, they should be used soon as they are harvested. However, you can keep them fresh for a few hours by wrapping in a plastic bag and storing them in the refrigerator.

Turmeric flowers contain curcuminoid, a compound found in the whole of the plant which gives the rhizomes their signature orange-yellow color. Among the main components of curcuminoid is curcumin, a potent compound with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Turmeric is known to help in managing chronic pain caused by arthritis and diabetes. It is also used to treat various cancers as well as Alzheimer’s disease.

So, its no myth, turmeric is a real superfood. And you should consider growing it in your garden to harness all the above benefits.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Patchouli in bloom. The plant is good for your body and mind

Patchouli, Good For Your Skin And Mind

January 3, 2020

Patchouli, stinkweed or putcha-pat, botanically known as pogostemon cablin, is a flowering herb in the mint family. The plant is native to the Southeastern region of Asia but has spread to other parts of the world including North America, China, and Africa.

Patchouli is a bushy plant with pink or white flowers. The flowers have a milder fragrance compared to the leaves and appear in autumn. As a tropical herb, it thrives in hot regions but dislikes extended exposure to direct sunlight.

Stinkweed’s flowers and leaves have been used for years to make insect repellents, perfumes, and incense. These aerial parts are also used to produce highly valued essential oils with sedative, antidepressant, and deodorant qualities.

During the 18th century, Chinese traders used the plant regularly to keep moths away from their merchandise. With time, European traders interacting with traders from the East started linking patchouli’s fragrance with lavish goods sold from China and other Asian countries. This explains why patchouli was commonly used in linen boxes during Queen Victoria’s time era.

Patchouli rose in popularity during the hippie movement of the 60s and 70. During this period, its pungent, musty fragrance was widely used to communicate sensuality and attract the opposite sex. Some schools of thought hold that hippies use the oil to mask the smell of marijuana.

Patchouli’s benefits include:

Skincare

Patchouli is one of the main components of skincare products. The oil is ideal for all skin types and brings out the glow and vibrancy of the skin. It slows down signs of premature aging such as fine lines and wrinkles while giving the skin a youthful glow. The oil tones the skin and conceals blemishes. In addition, the oil can be mixed with natural skin cleansers to make a potent face wash. This eliminates skin blemishes by hastening the fading of scars emanating from acne, bruises, or chickenpox.

Antidepressant
Patchouli is a great remedy for people struggling with depression. The oil has a calming, elevating effect which helps to ease feelings of loneliness, loss, disappointment, anxiety, and sadness. These qualities are the main reason why patchouli’s oil is used in aromatherapy.

Aphrodisiac
By now you know that patchouli’s aphrodisiac properties endeared it to hippies as they sought sexual liberation. The oil is known to help in treating sexual malfunctions including low libido, anxiety, impotence, and erectile dysfunction.

Sedative
Patchouli’s soothing and calming capabilities make it an ideal sedative. It calms the body’s allergic response and relaxes the body and mind, making sleep possible for people struggling to fall and stay asleep.

Patchouli is a great herb to grow in your garden, both for its lovely flowers and herbal qualities.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Sundew, the carnivorous plant, has medicinal qualities and makes milk sour

Sundew, A Beneficial Carnivorous Flower With A Sour Twist

December 28, 2019

Sundew, also known as red rot, dew plant, and botanically known as drosera rotundifolia, is a small, perennial flowering plant in the droseraceae family. The plant is native to Europe, America, and Asia but has spread to other regions except for Antarctica.

Sundew grows in swampy habitats and is easily found in ponds, bogs and river banks. It thrives in direct sunlight and can endure poor soils with low nitrogen content.

In spite of deceptive appearance as an ordinary plant, the sundew is no ordinary flower as it hides an ominous secret: it preys on insects to supplement its nitrogen demands. How can a plant go grabbing insects for dinner? Well, while it does not go chasing insects, the sundew has a whole bag of tricks for pulling in its dinner.

Sundew’s leaves are covered with tiny bristles that produce a gooey substance. When illuminated by sun rays, the sticky sap looks like dew and attracts insects to the plant. As soon as insects perch on the leaves, it is trapped by the gluey substance. The tiny bristles, now stimulated by the movements of the struggling insect bend inwards and clamp hard on the insect making it impossible to escape. At the same time, more sap with digestive compounds rush in and start breaking down the insect’s body into a protein that can be utilized by the plant. Sounds creepy, right? No need to worry, the sundew does not have an appetite for larger game, so you are safe.

Sundew blooms from July to August producing white or pink blossoms. The flowers normally open up in the afternoon, which is curiously the same the time that sundew exudes the ominous gooey sap.

In spite of its strange carnivorous habits, sundew has medicinal properties. The plant’s flowers and leaves have compounds that are highly beneficial. Red rot is known to have antispasmodic, antitussive, antibiotic, antibacterial, expectorant and demulcent qualities.

The beneficial compounds of the sundew plant were first discovered in the 13th century when herbalists realized that the sap produced by the plant’s leaves and flowers was highly effective in treating tuberculosis.

Later during the 16th century, John Gerard, an English herbalist noticed that physicians in his time prescribed sundew extracts for problems affecting the respiratory system. Today, the plant is used to treat respiratory problems including asthma, cold, and flu. In addition, it is used to boost libido and can be applied topically to treat warts and corns as it contains digestive enzymes.

Sundew is not only beneficial for its medicinal qualities, but the plant’s extracts are also used to curdle milk. The milk is heated and the extracts added in the course of heating to make the milk sour.

Traditionally, the dew plant was harvested in summer when it is in full bloom and dried to preserve it for later use. However, since the plant is now a rare plant that is considered threatened in some regions due to loss of habitat, sundew should not be collected from the wild.

Sundew is an ideal flower to have in your yard. As long as you can mimick its natural habitat, you will not only wake up to a garden with glittering flowers, the plant will also work overtime to eliminate troublesome bugs such as crickets and mosquitoes. In addition, you will also enjoy its herbal and culinary benefits.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Shy, Sensitive But Potent: Meet The Bashful Touch Me Not

December 25, 2019

Mimosa pudica, commonly known as touch-me-not, sleepy plant, shame plant, shy plant, or zombie plant, is a perennial and in some instances annual flowering plant belonging to the legume or pea family.

The plant is known as touch-me-not because it responds to stimuli such as touching, blowing or shaking by closing its leaves. Scientists are still trying to figure out why the herb developed this response, but most say that the shy plant shrinks when stimulated as a defense mechanism against herbivores trying to feed on its leaves, flowers or fruits.

The touch-me-not plant is native to South and Central America but has spread to most regions in the world. It is mostly cultivated for curiosity reasons and commonly occurs in shady areas such as under shrubs or trees.

Between May and July, the shy plant brings forth purple or pink blossoms. The flowers are mildly fragrant and have hairy peduncles. They also feature prickles just like the rest of the plant.

The whole of touch-me-not is known to have medicinal qualities. It has been used for ages to treat various illnesses including sinus, urinary tract disorders, dysentery, wounds, and piles. The plant contains antivenom, anticonvulsant, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifertility, antiinflammatory, and antidepressant properties. In addition, it has aphrodisiac qualities.

Studies conducted on the plant show that the compounds behind the sensitive plant’s therapeutic properties are sterols, amino acids, alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids, fatty acids, and glycosides.

In a study published in PubMed Central, researchers sought to investigate the effect of the touch-me-not extracts against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. The bacteria used included proteus vulgaris, escherichia coli, salmonella typhi, staphylococcus aureus, and klebsiella pneumonia.

Reference antibiotics tested against the microorganisms and compared with the sensitive plant included ampicillin and chloramphenicol. At the end of the study, researchers realized that the touch-me-not extracts were as effective against these microorganisms just as the pharmaceutical products were.

Antioxidant
Mimosa pudica contains vitamins and phytochemicals with anti-oxidant qualities. It is also an ideal source of superoxide dismutase, a critical antioxidant needed by the body cells which tends to decrease as you age.

Antidepressant
Mimosa pudica extracts are often used to treat depression, anxiety, and stress. The plant is also widely used to treat insomnia.

Anti-inflammatory
Touch-me-not extracts in the form of poultices are highly effective in relieving pain and inflammation. This makes it ideal for treating joint pains and arthritis.

Apart from being an ideal ornamental plant due to its curious response to stimuli and beautiful flowers, the shy plant seems to hold many therapeutic promises yet to be discovered.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Ylang-ylang-flower is used to make oils to enhance sensuality

Ylang-Ylang Flowers For Sensuality

December 24, 2019

Cananga odorata, also known as ylang-ylang, perfume tree, cadmia or cananga, is a plant that belongs to a genus of flowering trees in the annonacea family.

The perfume tree is a tropical plant native to Indonesia and the Philippines but has been introduced to other regions including North America for commercial reasons. The plant’s flowers are credited with producing high-value essential oil fondly known as ylang-ylang. The oil is used to make world-famous perfumes including Joy Perfume and Chanel No.5. Basically, ylang-ylang oil is extracted from the flowers of the shrub via steam distillation.

Linalool, a main component of the oil, is said to have properties that reduce stress. This explains why ylang-ylang oil is considered an ideal therapy for combating anxiety-related problems. When inhaled or absorbed via the skin, studies show that it sends signals to the part of the brain that controls emotions, which is also responsible for influencing the nervous system.

According to a study conducted in 2006 and published in Phytotherapy Research journal, researchers realized that ylang-ylang oil assisted the subjects in reducing blood pressure and enhancing relaxation as well as lifting moods.

The oil is also popular in aromatherapy for its aphrodisiac qualities which make it ideal for boosting libido and improving sensuality. Ylang-ylang oil is soothing, calms frayed nerves, eases tension and uplifts moods. While pharmaceutical drugs or herbs for enhancing sensuality are ingested in order to work, ylang-ylang takes a shorter, more convenient route. The oil is absorbed into the body by inhaling or massaging into the skin.

When inhaled or massaged into the skin, the scent is absorbed into the body and eventually reaches the region of the brain that regulates libido known as the limbic system. The limbic system controls emotions such as anger and pleasure. It also controls drives such as romance, care, hunger, and dominance. Apart from appealing to the limbic system, it stimulates the pituitary gland, which is the part responsible for regulating the production of hormones.

When used for cosmetic purposes, ylang-ylang oil regulates and balances the production of natural oils by the skin. It also soothes and alleviates irritation and inflammation while enhancing circulation and inducing the growth of new skin cells including hair follicles.

Apart from its use in aromatherapy, ylang-ylang oil is also used to treat various sicknesses because it contains antimicrobial, anti-oxidant and anti-fungal properties.

It is not every day that you encounter a plant that is famous for its blossoms but not because the blooms are excellent in the cut flower industry. Instead, the flowers are used to make world-famous oils that are highly therapeutic. But then these are the qualities that make ylang-ylang unique.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Frangipani flowers have antibiotic qualities

Frangipani Flower: Nature’s Fragrant Antibiotic?

December 22, 2019

Frangipani, also known as common frangipani, nosegay, temple flower, and botanically referred to as plumeria rubra, is a small deciduous shrub native to Central America, Mexico, and Venezuela. With time the plant spread to other regions and is now a common sight in most countries around the world.

Frangipani is highly prized as an ornamental plant due to its showy, fragrant flowers. It is commonly planted in gardens and yards for its decorative appeal. In Hawaii, the showy flowers are used to make welcoming floral arrangements known as leis. These are hung around tourists’ necks or used as table decorations.

Frangipani’s botanical name, plumeria, is derived from a French botanist’s name, Charles Plumier. The botanist is credited with discovering the beneficial properties of frangipani flowers.

The shrub blossoms between March and September, bringing forth showy, white, pink and yellow flowers. Apart from being showy, the flowers and leaves of the frangipani shrub have other qualities. These parts of the plant have medicinal properties and can be cooked as vegetables.

Primarily, the plant’s popularity is not due to its ornamental or edible qualities, but rather, it stems from the shrub’s blossoms which have endowed the world with the famous frangipani oil. The flowers are normally dried for several days before being put through distillation to produce the renowned essential oils. These oils are widely used in the herbal, perfume, and aromatherapy industries.

Frangipani flower oil is normally light yellow and mildly viscous. It has a rich, exotic, heady scent that is often described as romantic and sensual. The oil can be used via topical application or diffusion. When used in aromatherapy, frangipani oil is highly penetrative. It refreshes, renews, and revitalizes the body, mind, and soul.

Antibiotic
Frangipani flower contains many compounds that make it an ideal antibiotic. These include lupeol, triterprenoid, fulvoplumierin, and amirin. These compounds give the flower analgesic, and antipyretic qualities.

In a study published in the World Academy of Science, researchers sought to find out the effects of frangipani flower extracts against Klebsiella pneumonia, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus using the disk technique.

The study involved comparing the action of two broad-spectrum antibiotics to frangipani flower extracts. At the end of the study, researchers noticed that frangipani was as effective in inhibiting E.choli as streptomycin. However, other bacteria strains did not show any sensitivity to frangipani flower extracts.

Astringent, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory
Frangipani flower oil has astringent, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which are great for the optimal functioning and general wellbeing of the body. These qualities help in lowering oxidative stress, eliminating free radicals and toning the body.

Frangipani flowers are truly beneficial. It brings cheer to your garden or yard, lifts up your moods and kills off disease-causing pathogens.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Aloe vera in bloom. The plant is considered a a wonder plant due to its medicinal properties

Aloe Vera: Nature’s Wonder Plant

December 21, 2019

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, is an upright flowering plant with thick, succulent leaves. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region but has spread to almost every region of the world due to its fame in the herbal industry.

Aloe vera is considered a desert botanical as it can survive in very dry areas. It rarely survives freezing temperatures and often suffers sunburn if moved from a shaded place to full sun without acclimatization. Aloe vera makes for an ideal potted plant and can thrive indoors as long as it gets direct sunlight for several hours.

The plant brings forth yellow or red flowers between spring and fall. The flowers are edible and are best harvested before they are fully open. However, edibility is not what this plant is famous for. Aloe vera’s aerial parts produce a sticky gel-like substance when bruised or cut. This gel is what makes it a miracle or wonder plant as it contains potent medicinal properties. The mysterious healing properties of aloe vera has made it one of the most studied plants, with new applications being discovered with every other study.

Aloe’s medicinal properties have been known for years but were first documented in 1750 BC. The medicinal qualities of the plant were outlined on a Sumerian clay tablet and appeared in the ancient Egyptian book of remedies. Greek physicians swore with the plant and commonly used it to treat burns. A popular legend holds that Alexander the Great invaded Socotra island in order to secure the plant for treating the wounds of his soldiers.

Aloe vera has been used for generations to treat internal and external problems. The plant can be used to treat wounds, sunburn, mouth ulcers, insect bites, gastrointestinal problems, and cataracts. It is also used in the beauty industry to make lotions and creams as it contains salicylic acid, a compound known to calm irritation, reduce pain, firm the skin and tightens the pores.

The gel of aloe vera contains a glycoprotein which promotes cell proliferation and helps in hastening the healing of wounds. It is also known to enhance blood supply to wounded areas and induce collagen proliferation and as well as stimulation of fibroblasts. The gel contains sufficient levels of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds,and vitamins including the uncommon B12 and amino acids. Actually, the plant has 20 of the 22 amino acids the body needs to function optimally.

While most herbal remedies used externally rarely penetrate deep into the skin cells where they are needed most, aloe vera has the ability to penetrate the skin. What gives aloe the ability to penetrate deep into the skin compared to other substances including water? Lignins.These are dietary fibers that penetrate the skin and act as carriers of other important compounds. They bind all the helpful compounds and transport them even further into the skin layers where they are needed. Lignins are also great for your digestive system.

With all the benefits outlined above, aloe vera is one plant you want in your flower garden or kitchen at all times.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Ginger Flowers For Arthritis

December 19, 2019

Ginger flower, commonly known as torch ginger flower, torch lily, red ginger or wild ginger, and botanically known as etlingera elatior, is a flowering plant native to Asia, and specifically Malaysia.

The red ginger is a perennial plant belonging to the zingiberaceae or ginger family and has been used in Asian medicine for years to treat a wide range of sicknesses.

The plant has showy flowers that bloom in late spring and throughout summer. In tropical regions, torch lily flowers all year round.

The plant flowers occur at the end of tall, straight stalks. Before they open up, they look like flaming torches, which explains the name, torch ginger flower. In full bloom, the flowers have waxy, pink or red petals. The blossoms have a sweet, exotic, floral flavor and are excellent for the cut flower industry.

Ginger flower is mostly known for its aromatic, spicy qualities where it is widely used in the culinary world. However, the plant also contains medicinal qualities. Young flowers of torch ginger flower are known to contain cytotoxic, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant and anti-tumor qualities.

A study involving 247 subjects suffering from osteoarthritis found that the participants given ginger capsules twice a day for 10 weeks experienced a reduction in pain compared to the control group. Other studies suggest that ginger is as effective as ibuprofen.

A 2010 study also discovered that ginger has properties that are great for relieving muscle pain. The study showed that consuming ginger in raw or cooked form resulted in a reduction of muscular pain after an injury.

In a study published in PubMed Central(PMC), researchers sought to find out the efficacy of torch ginger against lead-induced free radicals. The study involved exposing rats to lead-acetate for 14 days. Some rats were fed with extracts of torch ginger blossoms while others were not.

After the 14 days, rats exposed to lead acetate experienced a significant reduction in serum antioxidants while the animals that were treated with ginger flower extracts alongside exposure to lead acetate showed an increase in antioxidants. The study established that the higher the dose of the ginger flower extract administered to the rats, the higher the concentration of antioxidants in the rats.

Researchers found that ginger extracts from flowers of the torch ginger have potent antioxidant effects against oxidative stress. While more studies are required to find out the full health capabilities of ginger, available evidence shows that this flowering plant is great for pain and inflammation.

Torch ginger flower is an interesting plant. For years, it has bestowed human beings with it’s culinary, aesthetic and medicinal goodness without fail.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Horseweed, botanically known as conyza canadensis

Virtue Has A Name: Horseweed

December 17, 2019

Horseweed, botanically known as conyza canadensis, or erigeron canadensis and commonly known as fleabane, prideweed, and colt’s tail, is an annual flowering plant with stiff, leafy, and branched stems. The plant has grooved, hairy stems with alternate or serrated leaves.

Fleabane is native to the central and northern regions of the United States. However, the plant has managed to spread to other places. Today, it can be found growing in the USSR, Central Asia, China, Europe, Far East, Africa, and Australia.

Horseweed thrives in dry, disturbed places such as clay river banks, hill prairies, and meadows. You are likely to see it growing in pasturelands, garbage dumps, abandoned farms, roadsides and along railroads.

Between June and November, horseweed brings forth green and white flower heads. In some instances, the flowers have yellow disk florets.

The plant got the name fleabane due to its effectiveness in eliminating fleas and other parasites when used as bedding for pets. Today, science has confirmed that fleabane’s anti-parasitic ability is due to the presence of essential oil which is similar to turpentine. Horseweed is also known as colt’s tail due to the appearance of its leafy stem which resembles a horse’s tail.

While it is not the prettiest flower one would choose to grow in the yard or the most popular in the herbal industry, horseweed has been used for years by Native North American tribes to treat various illnesses.

Native Americans living in the Zuni region crushed fleabane’s flowers and inserted them into their nostrils to induce sneezing in order to relieve rhinitis. The whole plant was also boiled and the resulting steam inhaled to trigger sneezing for people suffering from cold or flu to help in decongesting the respiratory system.

Basically, horseweed’s aerial parts (flowers, leaves, and stems) have medicinal qualities and should be harvested in bloom and dried to preserve it. When dry, horseweed has a mild, pleasant odor. Its medicinal properties are extracted using alcohol or via infusion.

Recent studies show that the plant has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-viral qualities. Colt’s tail is also known to contain essential oils, bitter extractives, gallic and tannin acids.

Its healing virtues include treating gastrointestinal problems such as dysentery, and diarrhea. Colt’s tail is also ideal for stanching internal bleeding, calming fever, alleviating a runny nose, treating hemorrhoids, and relieving aches. Apart from internal uses, horseweed is used in the form of poultices to soothe sore joints and heal burns.

Horseweed is not just good for herbal uses only. Its leaves, flowers, and stems can be dried and used to spice up food due to its aromatic qualities. Young leaves and barely opened blossoms are boiled and eaten as vegetables or used as a seasoning. The oil derived from its flowers and leaves is used to flavor soda and candy.

Horseweed might have a curious name and is not considered a famous plant in the culinary, flower or herbal industries. But the plant’s virtues cannot be denied.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Flamboyant, Fiery And Medicinal Flame Tree (Gulmohar)

December 16, 2019

Gulmohar, also known as flame tree is a beautiful, deciduous, flowering tree belonging to the leguminosae family. The tree is also known as peacock flower tree, royal poinciana and botanically referred to as delonix regia.

Gulmohar is native to Madagascar but can now be found growing in most tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The tree’s origin was unknown until the 1930s when Wensel Bojer, a botanist, is said to have stumbled upon it in Madagascar. Today, it is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and along roadsides. In addition, the tree is used to enrich and stabilize the soil.

The flame tree thrives in clay to sandy soils with plenty of sunshine. It is normally propagated by seeds that take a couple of years before germinating. To break the dormancy of the seeds and hasten the germination process, the seeds are boiled for 24 hours and planted in nurseries where they germinate in about a week. Apart from seeds, the tree can be propagated via cuttings.

Flame tree is considered one of the most colorful trees in the world. For weeks in spring and summer, the tree brings forth clusters of beautiful, flame-red blossoms. The flowers have spoon-shaped orange-red or scarlet petals with white or yellow marks.

While the tree is famous for its pretty, fiery flowers, gulmohar has many other practical uses as it is harvested for food, medicine, fuel, beads, and timber. Gulmohar’s beautiful flowers and fern-like leaves are known to have potent medicinal qualities. Phytochemicals in the flowers and leaves such as phenolic compounds, flavonoids, sterols, saponins, alkaloids, steroids, phytotoxins, and triterpenols give the tree medicinal value. These compounds have anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, hepatoprotective and anti-diarrhea activity.

Cytotoxic and hepatoprotective
Studies have shown that triterpenes, flavonoids and amino acids in the flame tree have cytotoxic activity against liver cancer. In addition, extracts from the plant were shown to have hepatoprotective activity against liver damage linked to oxidative stress.

Anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory
Extracts of gulmohar are known to inhibit paratyphoid fever caused by salmonella enterica. The plant is also known to inhibit the growth of shigella dysenteriae and candida albicans. The flame tree has also shown a lot of promise in treating rat-paw edema.

While gulmohar tree has been a sought-after ornamental plant the world over for its beautiful, fiery flowers, modern science is proving that gulmohar has much more to bring to the table apart from its flamboyance.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Iris Flowers For Aromatherapy

December 15, 2019

Iris is a genus of showy, perennial flowering herbs in the iridaceae family. These plants occur in temperate regions of the world and are native to the Middle East, Asia, North America, Europe, and Africa.

The genus is named after the Greek rainbow goddess, Irida. Legend holds that the goddess used the rainbow to descend from the heavens to bring the will of the Olympians to the people. Whenever Irida would touch the ground, beautiful iris flowers would spring forth from her footsteps. As if to confirm the legend, iris flowers come in all the rainbow colors.

The flowers are cultivated in gardens for ornamental value due to their showy blossoms. In the language of flowers, the stately iris represents majesty and power. The flowers were placed on the scepter of kings and the brow of the Sphinx with its blossoms to signify wisdom, faith, and valor.

Irises are easy to grow and can thrive in the wild. These plants have the ability to withstand weeds, brush, and encroachment from other plants. They are known to thrive in gardens that have been untended for years.

In spite of their amazing beauty, iris flowers are rarely included in floral arrangements or bouquets because they are very fragile. This explains why not many people are familiar with them compared to roses or morning glories.

Apart from beauty, irises are known for having medicinal uses. Their flowers have been used for ages to treat various conditions including depression. However, the real value of iris flowers lies in the oily scent derived from the plant to make perfumes all over the world. Ancient Rome and Greece were especially good in exploiting the fragrance of the plant for their perfume industry.

Perfumes derived from iris flowers are widely used in aromatherapy to calm nerves and put people to sleep. They are also used to boost moods and alleviate depression. Iris rhizomes are used to help babies during teething while a combination of the flowers and rhizomes are used to flavor alcoholic beverages. Though the iridaceae family has thousands of species, only two species, iris florentina and iris germanica, are used in aromatherapy. Florentina has white flowers while germanica has purple flowers.

The medicinal qualities of the iris plants are attributed to the presence of compounds such as a ketone referred to as irone, a glycoside known as iridin, mucilage, fat, and resin. The plant also contains sufficient levels of vitamins, organic acids, and selenium. These compounds give iris plants emetic, diuretic, and cathartic properties. The oily compounds in the plant also make the plant an ideal skincare product. Extracts from the flowers can be applied topically to manage acne, soothe irritated scalp and strengthen weak, brittle hair.

Iris are majestic, beautiful flowers that are adored around the world. This explains why some florists and gardeners still swear by these flowers. And now that you know they have some medicinal value, why not order some for your garden?

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Delphinium or larkspur has antiparasitic properties

Delphinium: The Beautiful Anti-parasitic Flower

December 14, 2019

Delphinium, also known as black knight, or larkspur, is a herbaceous, low-growing, perennial flowering plant belonging to the ranunculaceae family with over 300 species. The genus name delphinium is derivedDelphinium, also known as black knight, or larkspur, from the ancient Greek word delphínion meaning dolphin due to the striking resemblance of its unopened flowers and the head of a dolphin. It is native to the Northern Hemisphere and African tropics. In North America, it thrives in USDA Zones 3-7 in well-drained, alkaline soils and prefers full sun.

[Disclaimer: Delphinium are known to contain norditerpenoid alkaloids. These compounds are highly concentrated in young plants and mature seeds. In large quantities, norditerpenoid alkaloids can cause cardiovascular toxicity resulting in irregular heartbeat and agitation among other symptoms. In addition,The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Black knights are loved by gardeners for their large, showy, beautiful flowers that blossom in summer. These come in a wide variety of colors including blue, white, lavender, yellow, red, purple, and pink. The flowers are borne on tall, slender spikes that resemble spires.

Delphinium flowers are made up of five petals with sepals that grow together forming a hollow pocket that has a spur at the end. They are considered excellent options in the cut flower industry because they can last for days in a vase. Their beauty and longevity probably explain why they were used by the ancient Egyptians to decorate their mummies.

Apart from their good looks, delphiniums have been used by herbalists for ages to treat colic and as a purgative. North American Cherokee Indians used delphinium flower infusion to treat heart problems. The Pakistanis used its flower decoction to treat chest problems, cough, throat problems, high blood pressure, and piles.

In modern science, delphiniums are known to have broad-spectrum medicinal effects. Larkspur has antiparasitic properties. Extracts from the plant are made into tinctures and lotions which are topically applied to eliminate parasites such as crabs and lice. In addition, delphiniums contain cardiotonic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, analgesic, and vasolidative activities.

Delphiniums are also known for promoting hair growth and preventing as well as treating hair loss problems such as alopecia. Researchers investigating the efficacy of larkspur realized that the plant contained compounds that stimulated human keratinocyte cells. In addition, researchers noticed that delphinium did not cause toxicity in endothelial and keratinocytes cells.

Delphiniums’ beauty and longevity as cut flowers make them a great choice for gardeners and flower lovers. Now that you know they have some medicinal value, it is time to consider having these plants in your flower garden.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Camphor Tree: The Perfect Analgesic?

December 12, 2019

Cinnamomum Camphor, commonly known as camphor tree, is a broad-leaved, deciduous tree. The tree has a wide canopy and a thick trunk. It prefers to grow in full sun but can also thrive in partial shade. The tree is drought resistant but is normally affected by extreme cold. In spring, it brings forth small cream to white blossoms quickly followed by black fruits containing tiny camphor seeds.

The camphor tree is native to Japan and China. It was introduced to North America as an ornamental plant in the 1800s. Today, the tree is cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions including Africa, India, and Sri Lanka.

The camphor tree is highly sought-after because it produces camphor, a crystalline ketone that is extracted from its flowers, barks, and leaves. Camphor is insoluble in water but dissolves in oils and alcohol. The compound comes in three types: brown, white and yellow. Only the white variety is used for medicinal purposes as the other two have high levels of toxins.

For centuries, camphor was traded for medicinal and culinary purposes. The compound was also used in the perfume industry. Camphor contains menthol, cineol, thymol, pinene, and terpineol as well as safrole. It has been used for years to manage pain as a result of rheumatic joints, wounds, gout, bruises, and inflammation. It was also used as an internal herbal cure for cardiovascular problems, hysteria, and epilepsy.

Traditionally, people would cut down the tree to extract the medicinal compounds. Today, only the flowers and leaves are harvested to produce camphor in an effort to preserve the tree.

To make it easier to use, camphor is dissolved in neutral base oils such as peanut or olive oil and marketed as camphor oil. The oil is popular in the herbal industry as it can be inhaled or applied to sore or aching areas in the form of spray, cream, and ointment.

In 2005, researchers at Harvard University Medical School realized that camphor desensitizes a protein known as TRPV1. The protein plays a key role in the body’s sensation and transmission of heat. Camphor interrupts that process and desensitizes the body from perceiving pain.

Another study in 2011 indicated that TRPV1 contributes to the body’s mechanism that induces coughing. When camphor interrupts this process, coughing is reduced which helps in managing colds. In addition, cineole, a component in camphor has anti-inflammatory and decongestive qualities. This combination makes camphor a highly effective remedy for cold and flu.

Now, next time you pass by a camphor tree, how about stopping to momentarily acknowledge a plant that is so dedicated to relieving your muscles or joints of pain.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food, Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Holy basil, botanically known as ocimum tenuiflorum

Holy Basil Flowers: Good For Your Body And Mind

December 10, 2019

Holy basil, botanically known as ocimum tenuiflorum and fondly referred to as tulasi, or tulsi, is a green, perennial, flowering herb belonging to the mint family. The mint family is popular for its culinary and medicinal qualities with plants such as mint, sage, oregano and lavender topping the list.

Holy basil is native to the Indian region and can be found growing throughout Southeast Asia. However, the popularity of the mint family has seen it spread and get naturalized to various regions of the world including Africa and North America.

Holy basil thrives in fertile loamy to poor laterite and alkaline soils. It prefers well-drained places with average to high rainfall. The plant flourishes in full sun, however, it can grow in partial shade with the likelihood of diminished oil yields.

The holy basil plant is considered an elixir for life due to its spiritual, culinary and medicinal properties. The plant is sacred to Hinduism and widely used in Ayurvedic medicine. According to the Ayurveda tradition, it cleanses the body of toxins, promotes purity and relieves digestive tract problems.

In Hindu mythology, holy basil is associated with the goddess Tulsi, (this explains why the plant is fondly referred to as tulsi) the consort of god Vishnu. Hindu families usually cultivate and keep the plant around the house for spiritual protection and other religious practices.

Holy basil’s flowers, leaves, and stems are rich in nutrients such as zinc, vitamin A and C, iron, calcium, and chlorophyll. In addition, its aromatic qualities make the herb a great spice and vegetable. This explains why various species of basil are the main ingredients in pesto sauce. Apart from being an ingredient in pesto sauce, all parts of holy basil are used to flavor soups and other sauces.

Apart from its culinary qualities, the plant contains essential oils such as nerol, camphor, and eugenol as well as various flavonoids and terpenes. These compounds give holy basil potent medicinal qualities.

Studies have shown that holy basil has anti-anxiety and anti-depressant qualities that are comparable to drugs used to treat depression and anxiety such as diazepam. Herbal experts say that drinking holy basil infusion daily is as effective as yoga. The infusion helps in clearing your mind and promotes a sense of well-being.

Other studies indicate that the plant has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity (anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, anti-protozoa, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and anti-carcinogenic).

Holy basil’s health benefits are attributed to the high levels of microbial and phenolic compounds in the plant. These compounds help the body in fighting off pathogens as well as protecting the body against the effects of free radicals and oxidative stress.

There is no doubt that holy basil is a herb that is good for your body, mind, and spirit. And a true elixir of life.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Plains Coreopsis Flower Tea For Regulating Insulin

December 8, 2019

Coreopsis tinctoria, commonly known as goldenwave, calliopsis, golden tickseed, or plains coreopsis, is a flowering annual in the aster family. It is native to North America but escaped from gardens, and spread to the rest of the world.

Plains coreopsis is famous for its daisy-like, tiny, yet colorful flowers with yellow petals that turn maroon towards the center. The flowers come forth from June to September and occur on long stalks. Goldenwave’s flowers are quite showy which makes the plant a favorite plant in flower gardens.

Traditionally, dried flowers of coreopsis tictoria were steeped to make infusions, commonly known as tea. The tea was used for recreational or medicinal purposes. According to Native Americans, golden tickseed tea protected the drinker from being hit by lightning bolts, while Zuni women used the tea believing that it helped them conceive daughters.

Apart from making infusions, coreopsis tinctoria flowers were boiled to make yellow or maroon dyes. While the dyed yarns looked very attractive, the color did not last.

Today, medical science has shown that extracts from the plains coreopsis flowers have the potential of managing blood sugar levels by inhibiting activities of the alpha-glycosidase enzyme. This enzyme is responsible for the absorption of sugar in the gastrointestinal tract.

Studies show that the flowers are rich in polyphenols and flavonoids. These compounds explain why calliopsis flowers have been used for years to treat diabetes and regulate insulin before science authenticated the ancient herbal knowledge.

In a study published in PubMed, researchers sought to find out the effects of the plant on rats with insulin resistance. The rats received a diet supplemented with extracts from the plant in their drinking water for 8 weeks.

At the end of the trial period, researchers discovered that the flowers had compounds that improved insulin levels in the rats. According to the study, the functioning of the flower extract was probably due to the promotion of impaired pancreatic cells.

Basically, the main components responsible for the insulin-regulating capabilities of the flowers are flavonoids in the plant. Since diabetes is closely linked to oxidative stress, the antioxidant effects of flavonoids help in improving blood glucose. Apart from regulating blood sugar absorption in the body, goldenwave is also known for easing abdominal discomforts and diarrhea.

So, if you thought plains coreopsis was only a great plant for its showy flowers, now you have another reason, now, you have another reason for seeking out this herb: it is full of compounds with health benefits.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Reliable And Versatile: Sedum Health Benefits

December 7, 2019

Sedum, commonly known as common stonecrop, or just stonecrop, is an evergreen, perennial flowering plant belonging to the crussulaceae family in the sedum genus. Basically, there are about 300 species of sedum in the genus. The plant is native to the Northern Hemisphere but can be found growing in most regions of the world including Asia, Europe, and North Africa.

[Disclaimer: Before trying plants you have never eaten, you should ensure you have the right plant. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Though it is considered a wildflower, stonecrop has endeared itself to gardeners due to its beautiful, star-shaped flowers and has become a common sight in flower gardens around the world. It is hardy enough to withstand winter, easy to take care of, and require minimal watering as it stores water in the succulent leaves. It is also ideal for cut flowers.

The plant is referred to as stonecrop or common stonecrop due to its tendency to form clumps on rocks, stone walls or stony grounds. It has smooth-margined, thick, succulent, oval leaves and produces yellow, red, lavender, orange or white star-shaped flowers featuring tassel-like inflorescences between June and August.

The blossoms and its aerial parts are edible and have a strong peppery taste. They make great soup recipes and can be used to enhance salads with their mildly sour taste. Varieties commonly used for culinary purposes include sedum rhodanthum, sedum sarmentosum and sedum reflexum. Sedum acre, commonly known as biting stonecrop is known to have high levels of alkaloids which are associated with toxicological effects and is not considered suitable for culinary purposes.

All the above-ground parts of sedum plants, including the biting stonecrop, are used for medicinal purposes. Studies show that the aerial parts of the plant contain alkaloids, tannins, rutin, and organic acids.

These parts can be crushed to make a paste that is applied topically to stanch bleeding. The paste can also be applied externally to treat flat warts, acne, itchy rashes, and pimples.

Stonecrop is known to be highly effective against intestinal worms due to the presence of alkaloids. During the 16th century, the plant was widely used by herbalists to treat parasites. The herbalists based their argument on the premise that the toxic properties of the plant were not strong enough not to cause negative effects as long as the herbal extracts were taken in recommended doses and under the supervision of a herbal expert but deadly to harmful parasites in the body.

With all the above going for them, stonecrops sound like the ideal flowering plants for your yard.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Hosta, fondly reffered to as urui is a culinary delicacy

Hardy, Crisp And Yummy Hosta

December 6, 2019

Hostana Montana, commonly known as hosta, urui or ginbo is a perennial flowering plant in the lily family. The plant is also known as funkia, and plantain lily. Hosta is native to Asia with about 50 different species in the genus. The plant’s genus, hosta, is named after an Australian botanist, Nicholaus Thomas Host, who lived during the Roman Empire presided over by Emperor Francis II.

Long before these plants became regular residents in yards and flower gardens, they were growing wildly in Japanese forests where they were fondly referred to as mountain vegetables. Hostas thrive in well-watered, well-drained, fertile soil. In North America, they occur in zone 3 to 9. Hostas can grow in deep shade or full sun, making them easy to grow, however, they dislike competing with shallow tree roots.

Hostas are grown for ornamental and food purposes. The plants produce beautiful, pale-purple or white flowers in summer. Their beautiful blossoms, yellow-green leaves, and white stems are edible.

Hostas have a sophisticated taste between lettuce and asparagus. The sweet, daylily-like flowers, borne on delicate stalks are ideal for cut flowers. They are also a culinary delicacy worth your time and palate with their peculiar floral notes. Hosta’s blossoms, leaves, and stems can be eaten raw or cooked.

When cooked, polysaccharides in the plant make it slimy. These compounds are known to help in boosting lymphocytes in the body. These are responsible for enhancing the immune system to fight off infections. Curiously, urui is not slimy when eaten raw. However, when cooked or crushed, its slimy characteristics emerge.

Apart from polysaccharides, the plants are an ideal source of fiber. They also contain magnesium, zinc, calcium, iron, and potassium. In addition, the leaves and flowers contain volatile oils.

For best results, choose flowers that are barely open as these are tender compared to already open flowers. Since the whole plant has higher water content in the morning which makes it crisp and crunchy, compared to later in the day, it is best to harvest the plant before the sun gets warm enough to dry the dew on the leaves.

Hosta plants have a short lifespan after harvesting as they do not store very well. To keep them fresh, wrap the freshly cut plants in a damp paper towel, put them into a plastic container and place them upright in the refrigerator.

Hosta: Beautiful in your garden and great on your plate. Now is the time to add these flowers to the list of plants in your garden.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food, Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Spider Flower: Meet The African Cabbage

December 3, 2019

Cleome gynandra, commonly referred to as African cabbage, African spider flower, cat’s whiskers, bastard mustard, spider flower, or spider wisp, is an erect, annual, flowering plant belonging to the capparaceae family. The plant occurs throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world and is native to South Africa, Americas, and South East Asia.

The spider flower can be found growing along roads, along fences, in ditches, and in fallow or cultivated fields. Between July and August, it produces four-petaled, purple, pink to white blooms. The uniquely clustered flowers are the reason the plant got the name “spider wisp or spider flower”.

Though the African cabbage is considered a weed, its flowers, young stems, and leaves are highly edible. They are boiled and eaten as a side dish, potherb or stew. These parts are also added to dishes such as rice to flavor them, or dried, ground into powder, and mixed with water to form a paste and used to wean children.

The aerial parts are highly nutritious as they contain significant amounts of phenolic acids, flavonoids, vitamins A and C, amino acids, and minerals such as magnesium, calcium, beta-carotene, and iron. The African cabbage also contains stearic acid, fiber, linoleic acid, amino acid, palmitic acid, and proline.

Apart from being edible, the aerial parts of the plant contain anti-oxidative and anti-fungal properties. The anti-oxidative effects of the spider wisp make it ideal for protecting the body against oxidative stress. Studies conducted on mice indicate that extracts of the aerial parts of the plant hold a lot of promise in fighting against cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes.

In a study involving albino mice with Ehrlich ascites carcinoma, researchers sought to find out the efficacy of the spider flower compounds extracted using methanol. The results indicated that the extracts reduced the size and weight of the cancerous tumors. In addition, the lifespan of the mice was increased.

Antioxidants not only help in fighting off inflammations, but they are also good for protecting the skin against the effects of harsh weather elements. As a result, the African cabbage can be used in skincare to manage the effects of premature aging including fine lines, dark spots, and wrinkles.

In another study published in the BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2016, researchers using the Broth dilution technique tested extracts from the plant on three fungal strains which are known to cause tinea capitis. The extracts showed significant antifungal activity against all three types of fungal strains.

Ultimately, the African cabbage is not only an edible flowering plant but also an herb with many medicinal qualities waiting to be discovered for the good of mankind.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Lily Of The Valley, The Fragrant, Natural Heart Tonic

December 1, 2019

The lily of the valley, botanically known as convallaria majalis, or lillium convallium, is a perennial, flowering plant native to North Asia, England, and North America. It has creeping rhizomes that send up shoots. The shoots featuring a pair of leaves, uncoil as they lengthen and extend upwards.

The plant thrives in well-drained, moist soils. It produces beautiful, fragrant, white bell-shaped flowers. As the blossoms open, they turn downwards.

The lily of the valley is a subject of many myths. A popular Greek myth holds that the plant was given to Aesculapius, the Roman god of medicine by Apollo, the sun god. Another Christian myth claims that blossoms of the lily of the valley represent Virgin Mary’s tears. These myths and legends, coupled with the beauty of the flowers explain why bouquets of this fragrant and showy blossoms are carried by brides for prosperity and good luck.

This plant contains more than 30 glycosides including convallarin and convallamarin. These two compounds have diuretic and purgative qualities. The plant is also rich in essential oils, saponins, malic acid, flavonoids, citric acid and cardenolides.

As far back as the 4th century, the lily of the valley was used as a heart tonic to regulate heartbeat. It is believed that the aerial parts of the plant contain compounds with a tonic effect on the heart. Nicholas Culpeper, the 17th-century physician and botanist, held that the plant was great for improving weak memories, alleviating eye infections and assisting people with palsy.

The lily of the valley’s fame as a heart tonic is no idle talk as its flowers and leaves are known to contain heart-friendly glycosides including convallatoxin, lokunjoside, and convallosides. These are the primary cardiac glycosides in the plant that make it an ideal heart tonic. At a basic level, cardiac glycosides are used to enhance the functioning of the myocardium. They cause the heart to pump more forcefully without increasing the need for oxygen, making the heart more efficient.

Convallatoxin, one of the main cardiac glycosides in the plant is critical in resolving cardio-vascular problems for reducing high blood pressure, treating strokes and preventing as well as treating cardiac failure. The glycoside which is known to work similarly to digitalis, has fewer side effects and less demanding on the kidneys. Digitalis, while being popular for treating heart conditions, tends to damage the heart in the long term. However, convallatoxin is gentle on the heart and does not damage heart muscles. The herb is quick-acting and has a relatively short half-life.

In the light of the information outlined above, now you know that lily of the valley not only warms your heart with its beauty but also contains natural chemicals that are beneficial for the heart.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Tulips are versatile,beautiful, medicinal and edible

Meet The Versatile Tulip Flower With Culinary And Medicinal Uses

November 30, 2019

Tulip, botanically known as tulipa, is a flowering perennial plant grown from a bulb in the liliaceae family. It flowers in spring and brings forth blossoms in a wide variety of colors, except blue. Tulip flowers have 3 petals and three sepals.

[Disclaimer: Tulip is known to trigger allergic reactions in some people, while in others the plant is known to cause dermatitis commonly referred to as tulip fingers. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

The flowers are highly sought after and rank a close third to roses and carnations in the flower industry in popularity. These flowers are considered so beautiful that florists often make blossom arrangements using tulip flowers only because they have a beautiful, unique presence.

The tulip plants are thought to have originated from Asia where they were cultivated for centuries. However, during the 16th century, these showy flowers were introduced to Europe. A botanist at the University of Leiden in Netherlands, Carolus Clusius, is credited with introducing tulips to flower gardens in the country. Enamored by these beautiful flowers, the Dutch started to cultivate these plants until the tulip cultivation became a major industry, bringing the flowers to world attention.

With time, tulips became a trading commodity in Netherlands and traders speculated on rare bulbs and flowers just like people speculate on gold and futures. At the height of what was commonly known as tulip mania, some rare tulips were valued at thousands of dollars which precipitated an economic crisis. In 1637, the tulip market crashed and Holland was thrown into an economic crisis as the tulip bubble burst. When the economy stabilized, Holland became the epicenter for tulips. Today, the country is a major tulip exporter.

These showy flowers have been known to have medicinal qualities for generations. Curiously, it is said that research on tulips as medicinal herbs was hindered by the high cost of these plants. Today, blossoms are used to make poultices for calming insect bites and stings. They are also known to relieve skin irritations, heal scratches and calm itches.

Tulips are commonly used in skincare products as they contain essential oils that are ideal for skin moisturizing. Red tulip flowers are also crushed and rubbed on cheeks to conceal skin flaws and give them a natural blush.

The flowers are high edible and commonly used in the culinary world. They can be eaten raw or cooked. If you intend to use the whole flower, consider cutting off the stamen and pistil as these two parts have a bitter taste. The blossoms vary in flavor from creamy, earthy to grassy. If you do not fancy eating raw petals, you can cook them similarly to squash flowers but they lose most of their color in the cooking process. In addition, tulip flowers are used to garnish salads.

Tulips are famous, versatile, beautiful, edible, and medicinal flowers. Now, how often do you encounter flowers with such a powerful combination?

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Wall germander, botanically known as eucrium chamaedrys

Wall Germander, An Ancient Gout Treatment

November 29, 2019

Teucrium chamaedrys, commonly known as wall germander, or germander, is an evergreen, perennial flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region of North Africa, Middle East, and Europe. This aromatic plant is a close relative of wood sage and a member of the mint family belonging to the teucrium genus. Germander was brought to North America by colonialists and spread to other regions of the world due to its medicinal properties.

[Disclaimer: Chronic ingestion of germander has been linked to cases of liver injury. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

The plant prefers mildly sandy or loamy, well-drained soils. It can grow in full sun or partial shade. Germander’s leaves have a strong aroma similar to garlic when bruised. In late spring and summer, the plant produces small, white to pale pink or purple flowers.

The name germander is believed to be derived from the word chamaedrys, meaning ground oak in Greek. The plant was so named because the leaves look like those of an oak tree.

Historically, germander has been cultivated for medicinal purposes due to its bitter, aromatic taste and for aesthetic reasons due to its clean, and attractive flowers. The plant’s aerial parts have medicinal qualities that treat inflammatory conditions including gout, fever, and digestive problems. King Charles V, the Holy Roman Emperor is said to have been successfully cured of gout after using wall germander extracts for 60 days. During the 1980s, wall germander extracts were marketed in capsules for cholesterol management and weight loss but were later discouraged due to the risk of hepatoxicity owing to unsupervised and long term use.

During the first century, Dioscorides, the renowned Greek physician, and botanist recommended wall germander for coughs, urinary tract problems, and dropsy. He also prescribed it for snake bites, eye problems, muscle pain, and cramps.

Basically, the whole plant contains astringent, antirheumatic, carminative, aromatic, aperient, diaphoretic, bitter and diuretic properties. Though the entire plant has medicinal properties, it is the aerial parts of germander, especially the flowers and leaves that are used to make herbal remedies including infusions for treating minor wounds and healing bleeding gums.

Apart from its medicinal purposes, wall germander is used in the alcoholic industry due to its bitter taste. The bitter flavor is considered ideal for making beverages that promote effective digestion.

Wall germander is clearly a high-value plant not only for the cut flower industry due to its beautiful blossoms but also for the herbal and culinary fields.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Hepatica, botanically known as anemone hepatica

Hepatica: A Beautiful Flower Deserving A Better Name

November 27, 2019

Anemone hepatica, commonly known as hepatica, kidney liverleaf, or liverwort is a flowering herb native to Europe, North America, and East Asia. It belongs to the crowfoot or butternut family and has long radical leaves. Hepatica prefers a moist, shady environment created by deciduous trees. It also occurs in grasslands, woodlands, and scrubs.

Hepatica’s leaves resemble a human liver. This explains why the plant has been given strange names such as liverwort. The association of the plant with the human liver almost led to its extinction in the 19th century as zealous herbalists in Europe harvested the plant and sold its extracts as a cure for various liver ailments.

The beautiful, blue, lavender, purple or white flowers appear in spring. Hepatica flowers are low-growing and only open when the sun is out, which makes them hard to spot. The blossoms are borne on hairy stalks that serve several purposes. The prickly hair helps to conserve heat when it is cold and act as a defense mechanism to keep off ants that would love to access the flowers and steal the nectar. Hepatica’s nectar is reserved for native bees which are beneficial to the plant as they pollinate its flowers.

The hype that almost saw the plant’s demise was no idle folklore. Liverwort has been used for generations to treat various liver diseases including hepatitis, jaundice, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis. It was also used to treat viral and bacterial infections.

[Disclaimer: High doses of anemone hepatica is known to cause irritations to the urinary tract and kidneys. To avoid complications, do not use fresh leaves as they contain protoanemonin, a toxic substance that is converted to anemonin, a safe compound when the leaves are dry. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Traditionally, the plant’s leaves and flowers were used by the Chippewa tribe to treat convulsions in children, earning the name “it is silent”. This was probably in reference to the herb’s ability to calm the convulsions. In addition, they used the plant to treat liver conditions. The famous English herbal enthusiast in the 17th century, Nicholas Culpeper, often prescribed the herb for treating rabies, which was commonly known as mad dog disease.

Hepatica contains flavonoids, tannins. These two components have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are known to reverse and protect the body against the harmful effects of free radicals. The compounds are also great for inhibiting the activity of viruses and bacteria which helps in protecting the body against various infections. In homeopathy, the plant is used to treat congested lungs, indigestion, bronchitis, and sore throat.

Hepatica’s fame may have waned with the discovery of new, more potent pharmaceutical drugs for treating liver problems, but its beauty and medicinal properties have not changed.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Creeping wood sorrel holds the potential of treating diabetes

Creeping Woodsorrel: A Potential Treatment For Diabetes?

November 26, 2019

Oxalis corniculata, commonly known as creeping woodsorrel, sourgrass, or sleeping beauty, is a delicate, perennial, low-growing, flowering plant in the oxalis genus. It looks similar to the common yellow wood sorrel or oxalis stricta.

Creeping woodsorrel is native to subtropical and temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. The plant, also known as clover sorrel, is considered a weed in crop fields, gardens, and lawns.

Clover sorrel thrives in fertile, moist, well-drained soils. It has smooth, compound leaves, divided into heart-shaped leaflets. The leaves are normally green on the upper side and dark-red or purplish on the underside. It folds the leaves at dusk and opens them again at dawn. The sleeping beauty brings forth yellow flowers with 5 petals from May to October. Flowers have an erect pistil and ten stamens.

All parts of the creeping wood sorrel contain vitamin C and oxalic acid. The plant is rich in calcium, fat, proteins, iron, phosphorus, beta, and flavonoids as well as volatile oils. It is also high in essential fatty acids such as oleic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid, linolenic acid, and palmitic acid.

In a 2016 study published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical, Biological and Chemical Sciences, extracts from the sleeping beauty were found to have antihyperglycaemic activity. The study involving hyperglycaemic rats found that the rats experienced a reduction in blood glucose when fed with single and double doses of creeping wood sorrel extracts. In glucose loaded animals, a reduction in blood sugar level was observed within an hour of administering the creeping wood sorrel extracts.

Continuous administration of the creeping woodsorrel for 14 days led to a noticeable reduction of serum cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides and VLDL levels in the rats. There was also a remarkable increase in HDL and protein levels.

The researchers realized that the sleeping beauty plant had the ability to inhibit the absorption and digestion of glucose via the intestines. Based on these findings, they concluded that creeping wood sorrel had the potential of becoming the new source of a highly effective oral antihyperglycaemic drug.

Apart from being a potential treatment for diabetes, clover sorrel is also edible. This explains why the plant is fondly referred to as sourgrass due to the presence of oxalic acid, giving it a sour taste. Oxalic acid is a common compound found in many edible vegetables including spinach. In spite of being highly edible, the creeping wood sorrel is toxic when consumed in large quantities.

While research is ongoing to find out whether the creeping woodsorrel is as effective in treating diabetes in humans as it was in rats, this plant seems to hold a lot of potential in assisting diabetics to take off the edge from this condition.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Flowers Generally, Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Hawthorn: A Heart-friendly Symbol Of Love

November 25, 2019

Hawthorn, also known as thornapple, mayflower, mayblossom, and botanically referred to as cratageus mongyna, is a thorny, flowering shrub in the rose family. It is native to the Nothern Hemisphere, especially Europe but is now naturalized in most regions of the world. It flowers in May and June, bringing forth white, delicate flowers with five petals and pink stamens.

Hawthorn flowers, berries and leaves are full of nutrients, micronutrients and medicinal compounds. This explains why the shrub has been used as food for years, however, it is the medicinal qualities that hawthorn is famous for.

The shrub has a long medicinal history in China, North America, and Europe. Dioscorides, the first-century Greek physician was among the first people to appreciate the herbal capabilities of the hawthorn in treating cardiovascular problems. Years later, medical science validated his claims as it was discovered that the shrub is highly effective in reducing bad cholesterol, enhancing heart contractions and regulating blood pressure. This might explain why in Celtic mythology, the shrub symbolizes love and protection.

Ancient Egyptians used various parts of the plant to treat digestive tract problems. There are also records indicating that the plant was used to treat respiratory and mental problems. Studies show that hawthorn flowers, leaves, and berries contain flavonoids and procyanidins. These two are the most active components with medicinal qualities in the plant. Apart from procyanidins and flavonoids, hawthorn is also known to contain phenolic and triperne acids.

Why is hawthorn heart-friendly
The main secret behind hawthorn’s heart friendliness is its high levels of antioxidant compounds which are known to be potent vasodilators. Basically, vasodilators are compounds that help to keep the veins and arteries open. They regulate blood pressure and prevent clogging as well as narrowing of blood vessels. These three are the main factors responsible for a healthy heart.

A study conducted in 2002 on patients diagnosed with hypertension showed that test subjects who were given 500mg of hawthorn and 600mg of magnesium experienced a significant reduction in diastolic blood pressure compared to the subjects receiving placebos. The study also indicated that the subjects taking real hawthorn extracts had improved moods and reported a decrease in anxiety.

In another study published in Pharmacognosy Review, researchers noticed that hawthorn extracts significantly improved symptoms of cardiac functions. In addition, the study showed that hawthorn had minimal side effects compared to conventional drugs used to treat cardiovascular conditions.

This small shrub has never failed to deliver its medicinal and culinary benefits to humankind.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Breathing Easy With New England Aster

November 24, 2019

New England aster, botanically known as symphyotrichum novae-angliae, is a stout, showy, flowering plant in the aster family. The plant is also known as michaelmas daisy while Native Americans referred to it as “it-brings-the-fall”. New England aster is native to North America and adapts quite well to new environments. The plant occurs in waste areas or on the edge of fields. It is easy to cultivate, tolerates various types of soils and prefers growing in full sunlight.

New England aster is among the last few plants to bloom before nights grow cold in September and October. This explains why Native Americans fondly referred to the plant as “it-brings-the-fall”. The flowers are violet-purple and in some instances white or rose-colored.

New England aster flowers have a sticky feel when touched as they contain a lot of resin.
The flowers are aromatic and have medicinal qualities including calmative, antispasmodic, decongestant, aromatic, carminative, diaphoretic, nervine, stimulative and relaxative properties.

Native American tribes burned the flowers and leaves of the plant to produce smoke which they used for treating people with mental conditions, congestions, nosebleeding, and headaches. Dried flowers were also used as snuff or vapor to treat stomach problems, relieve gas pains, and fevers.

Throughout the ages, New England aster has been used as a handy lung tonic and is considered as a first-line treatment for conditions affecting the respiratory system including coughs, colds, and flu. The plant is also a great bronchodilator and ideal for relieving labored breathing as a result of allergy or asthmatic attacks.

New England aster decongestive properties are easily extracted by steeping dry or fresh flowers and leaves of the plant in a pan with boiling water and allowing the mixture to stand for 5-10 minutes with the container covered with a lid. After steeping, the mixture is allowed to cool down sufficiently to be safe enough to inhale the resulting steam. Inhaling the aromatic essential oils of the plant helps in breaking up the congestion in the respiratory tract. This facilitates the elimination of the mucus and decongests the airways.

New England aster may seem like an ordinary weed or just a showy plant whose flowers are only great for the cut flower industry. But beyond what you see, lays a plant that packs enough health benefits to help you breath easy when confronted with a congested airway. So, next time you are struggling to breathe due to congested airways, grab a handful of New England aster flowers and harness their medicinal properties to assist you to alleviate the condition.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Begonia or Begonia coccinea is much more than just beautiful flowers

Begonias: Much More Than Beautiful Flowers

November 23, 2019

Begonia coccinea, or angel wing begonia, commonly known as begonia, is a fibrous, herbaceous, flowering, perennial plant with erect, branched stems. The plant starts flowering from summer and lasts until winter, bringing forth light pink or red flowers with a mild fragrance. The flowers are irregularly shaped blossoms with red peduncles. Begonias occur naturally in tropical and subtropical climates. These plants are quite popular due to their beautiful flowers with some species thriving indoors as ornamental plants. Begonia blossoms are likened to roses in beauty and luxury. They are rich in color, warm, and feminine.

Basically, all plants in the begonia genus (about 1,500 species) not only have beautiful flowers but also have culinary and medicinal purposes. The flowers can be eaten raw as snacks and have a citrus-like flavor. They can also be added to soups, salads, and sandwiches. In addition, the Journal of Economic Botany holds that begonias were a popular preventative agent for vitamin C deficiency in the 1940s when scurvy was a major health problem.

Though begonia does not have the punch packed by citrus fruits when it comes to essential vitamins and minerals, people in dire need of these vital nutrients can nibble on these flowers to alleviate acute deficiency symptoms.

Apart from alleviating lack of vitamin C, begonia is known to have sufficient levels of medicinal qualities that make it ideal for treating and relieving coughs and fever. The flowers are also laxative, emetic and cathartic.

Antioxidant
Begonias are known to have antioxidant properties. They are used to reduce inflammation, clean wounds and to treat many other ailments.

Anti-tumor
Begonia flowers have anti-tumor compounds. Herbalists in the West Indies have used them for generations to fight against cancer. A 2009 study, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, stipulates that begonias have cytotoxicity effects in cancer cells.

Treats bronchitis, rheumatism, and gout
Bronchitis is a condition caused by bronchial problems causing obstruction of oxygen to the lungs. Since begonias have anti-inflammatory properties, they are considered ideal for treating bronchitis. In addition, the anti-inflammatory properties in begonias make them an ideal remedy for rheumatism and gout.

Colds and flu
Begonias contain anti-bacterial and anti-viral compounds. In addition, high levels of vitamin C in these flowers make them good for treating colds and flu.

Ultimately, though begonia flowers are highly popular for their ornamental value, they bring much more to the table than beauty. These flowers have medicinal value and they are yummy too. Since finding flowers with these three qualities is hard, why not place your order for begonias now and have them in your backyard before winter comes knocking?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Ononis spinosa, also known as spiny restharrow

Spiny Restharrow The Herbal Diuretic

November 21, 2019

Spiny restharrow or bugrane, stay plough, wild liquorice, and stinking tommy, botanically referred to as ononis spinosa, is a flowering shrub native to Europe. The plant occurs mostly on roadsides, forests and dry meadows.

Spiny restharrow’s genus, ononis, is derived from a Greek word, ono, meaning donkey. The genus is so named due to the nasty odor given off by the young leaves of plants in this family. The word spinosa is derived from the herb’s spiny branches. Another school of thought led by a Spanish botanist and doctor, Andres Laguna, claims that the plant’s genus name is borrowed from a Greek word meaning donkey because these members of the horse family love using the plant to scratch their itchy skin and feeding on it. There are also those who hold that the plant was named restharrow or stay plough due to the ability of its roots to hold on animal-driven plows.

Spiny restharrow blooms from June and September, bringing forth purple-pinkish flowers that are either in pairs or single. The flowers are pollinated by bees, making the plant great for attracting and sustaining wildlife.

Wild liquorice blossoms have a sticky feel when touched due to the presence of the essential oils including menthol, carvone anethole and transanethole enclosed in tiny glands that can only be seen with the help of a magnifying glass. Apart from the essential oils, spiny restharrow has citric acid, salicylic acid, ferulic acid, and gallic acid. The flowers, leaves and roots of the plant are aperient, antitussive, diuretic and lithontripic. They also contain sufficient levels of sterols, triterpenes, and isoflavones.

Spiny restharrow flowers and leaves are mainly used to treat people with fluid retention problems as they have diuretic effects. Curiously, the roots have a fixed oil that is anti-diuretic.

To make a diuretic solution, you put about ¼ cup of dried flowers or 1 cup of fresh flowers in a pan containing 4 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Once it boils, allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes while stirring it. Strain out the flowers and allow the infused solution to cool down before use.

Apart from being an effective diuretic, spiny restharrow is great for skin toning and treating skin problems. In addition, it works effectively for alleviating bladder, kidney, muscle pain, and joint problems while its antitussive properties make it ideal for relieving coughs.

While the advancement of farming technology has eliminated the possibility of spiny restharrow entangling plows, the plant has not fallen out of favor as a great medicinal shrub.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Lady’s Bedstraw: Beddings And Medicine In One Package

November 20, 2019

Lady’s bedstraw, also known as yellow galium curdwort, galio, maid’s hair, and scientifically referred to as gallium verum, is a flowering, sprawling perennial plant. The plant is native to Asia and Europe but is now naturalized throughout most of the North American states.

The plant thrives on dry banks mostly near water bodies such as seas. Between July and August, lady’s bedstraw produces tiny, bright yellow blossoms that are closely knit together forming tight panicles at the top of erect stems. Lady’s bedstraw is a strange plant as some varieties have no fragrance while others have a sweet fragrance that normally fills meadows, sand dunes, grasslands and river banks with a honey-like scent during the flowering season.

Curdwort’s flowers, leaves, and stems are used for medicinal purposes. The plant has tonic qualities, which explains why it is used to induce sweating for people running high fevers. Lady’s bedstraw is also used as an aphrodisiac and a purgative for people experiencing bowel movement problems.

Dioscorides, the first-century Greek physician often prescribed a tincture of lady’s bedstraw blossoms to treat bruises and burns. In addition, Culpeper, the 17th-century herbalist from England, used it generously to treat children with skin disorders as it has astringent qualities.

The plant’s English name, lady’s bedstraw, is derived from its popular use in ancient times when it was used by noblewomen to stuff their beddings especially when they were about to give birth. There is also the popular Christian folklore claiming that this plant was among the ‘Cradle Herbs’. These are herbs believed to be in the hay in the manger at Bethlehem where Jesus was born.

In essence, the main reason why the lady’s bedstraw is used in beddings is due to a compound in the aerial parts known as coumarin. This naturally occurring compound is what gives the flowers a fragrant scent. When these parts are dried in the sun, they still retain the fragrance which is closely likened to vanilla.

Apart from the names mentioned above, the lady’s bedstraw is also known as cheese rennet. This name is derived from an ancient practice of harvesting the flowering tops of the plant for their enzymes that curdles milk. The plant’s generic name, galium, is a Greek word, meaning milk. In addition, the flowers were harvested and crushed to extract the yellow color which was used to color wool and women’s hair which explains why it is also known as maid’s hair.

Now, next time you are out foraging and need a place to lay your head, how about looking around for lady’s bedstraw tops? You can also grow it in your backyard for beauty, fragrance, curdling milk or for medicinal purposes.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Arnica For Arthritis Pain: Is It Effective?

November 19, 2019

Arnica Montana, commonly known as arnica, leopard’s bane, and wolf’s bane, is a perennial plant occurring naturally in North America and Europe. It produces yellow-orange blossoms similar to daisies and is fondly referred to as “mountain daisy”.

Arnica is a member of the compositate family, meaning it is related to chamomile, calendula, and yarrow. Most members of this family have medicinal and culinary qualities. The plant is quite interesting as it prefers low-nutrient soils and thrives in alpine conditions. In addition, it rarely grows in areas where commercial fertilizers have been used.

Arnica’s flowers have been used since the 1500s to prepare herbal remedies. The blossoms contain a compound known as helenalin. This compound which is produced by the plant to ward off predators is toxic in high doses. However, in low doses, it has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, making it highly beneficial to people with arthritis, chronic pain, bruises, muscle pain, and swelling.

In 2002, a study published in a medical journal known as Advances in Therapy, involving 79 people with knee osteoarthritis sought to examine the efficacy of arnica in dealing with arthritis. The participants applied arnica gel twice daily for 6 weeks. While one of the participants experienced an allergic reaction to the gel, the rest of the participants tolerated the gel quite well. At the end of the study, researchers realized that arnica gel improved the function of the affected limbs, relieved pain and alleviated stiffness.

A 2007 random study involving 204 participants suffering from osteoarthritis was published in Rheumatology International journal. The study found that a gel extracted from arnica flowers and administered daily was as effective as a gel made from ibuprofen. In addition, the arnica gel did not have as many side effects compared to ibuprofen.

Basically, arnica can be used topically as a gel, ointment, tincture or salve. It can also be applied as a poultice or compress. Normally, oral administration of the plant is not recommended since it is known to have serious side effects including nausea, heart problems, tremors, and dizziness.

Since this plant has been in demand for years, it has been heavily harvested and foraged, making it an almost endangered species. As a result, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and other agencies in the conservation industry have been urging governments around the world to protect it. Today, most European countries require anyone collecting the plant to have a license, however, policing such regulations is often an uphill task. While some companies have tried to cultivate arnica, their efforts have given mixed results as the plant prefers to grow in its natural habitat and it is challenging simulating the natural environment.

So, is arnica effective in treating arthritis? From the studies quoted above, it is apparent that this nearly endangered plant is highly beneficial in resolving symptoms associated with the condition.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Digitalis lanata, aslo known as Grecian foxglove has heart-friendly properties

Grecian Foxglove, The Heart Friendly Wildflower

November 18, 2019

Grecian foxglove, botanically known as digitalis lanata, is a beautiful, short-lived perennial or biennial flowering plant. It is native to Europe and was brought to the US as an ornamental herb due to its beautiful blossoms that are ideal for the cut flower industry.

The plant looks similar to garden foxglove (digitalis purpurea), however, you can distinguish it from the latter by the wool-like hair on its sepals and stems. In addition, grecian foxglove has green petals surrounding the flower bud as well as multi-colored blossoms unlike its cousin, the garden foxglove.

Between June and July, grecian foxglove produces flowers which occur on an erect, unbranched stalk. The white to pale yellow flowers are tightly arranged along a spike-like raceme and face different directions.

Grecian foxglove’s genus, digitalis, comprise of more than 20 species. All the plants in the genus contain cardiac glycosides known as digitalin (digoxin) and digitoxin. These cardiotonic substances are toxic in large quantities but beneficial for people with heart problems in small quantities.

According to a report published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, William Withering, an English physician, is credited with the first recorded use of foxglove extracts derived from digitalis purpurea to treat edema. This is a condition closely linked to cardiovascular problems.

Withering’s curiosity was inspired by reports of a cure for edema, commonly known as dropsy then. The cure was said to be a highly guarded secret held by an old woman living in Shropshire. The cure was said to have succeeded where other treatments for the condition failed.

Basically, the cardiac glycosides that are used to treat heart conditions are extracted from any part of grecian foxglove. These compounds have been shown to be highly effective in atrioventricular conduction which effectively slows down the heartbeat but mildly increases its contracting ability. The enhanced circulation in congestive heart failure resulting from fast atrial fibrillation helps the kidneys to function better and stimulates urine flow. This has the effect of reducing the blood volume which has the effect of taking off the strain from the heart.

To date, Grecian foxglove is still used to produce digitoxin as synthetic digitoxin is very expensive and not considered viable. Apart from Grecian foxglove, digitoxin is also obtained from its close cousin, garden foxglove. Grecian foxglove is not only used for treating heart conditions, but the plant is also good for treating insomnia, alleviating asthma symptoms and treating burns as well as wounds.

While there are possibilities of new drugs for treating heart conditions emerging and replacing the grecian foxglove, this plant will always occupy an esteemed place in the medical world.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Wood Betony: Fascinating, Beautiful And Medicinal

November 17, 2019

Stachys officinalis, wood betony or hedge nettle, is a perennial, flowering grassland herb native to Western Asia, Europe, and North Africa. The plant commonly occurs in meadows and grasslands.

Wood betony was famous throughout Europe for its magical and medicinal properties.
Just like other members of the mint family, the plant has square stems, with short, fine hairs and toothed leaves occurring at the base of the plant. In mid to late summer, wood betony brings forth tubular, red or violet flowers.

The plant has a rich and revered history. It was thought to be so important that an Italian proverb in the Middle Ages admonished “Sell your coat and buy betony”. Later, John Sauer, a colonial American herbalist echoed the words of the Italian proverb when he said, “There is no illness brought by cold in which betony cannot be administered effectively”.

The plant was thought to have magic powers and was commonly used to protect people against bodily harm and evil eyes. It was also used to dispel negative energy, and bring on prophetic dreams. In addition, wood betony was widely used by European shamans for rooting and grounding people who were feeling disconnected from their bodies and Mother Earth.

Wood betony was thought of as a potent remedy for a wide variety of diseases and difficulties. It was one of the most prized medicinal herbs by Anglo-Saxons. Antonius Musa, a physician who attended to Caesar August, the Roman emperor, outlined more than 47 dieseases he treated using wood betony. However, with time, the plant fell out of favor as the pharmaceutical industry grew.

Traditionally, the leaves were harvested before the plant came into bloom. Today, as more people turn to alternative cures, all the aerial parts of wood betony (flowers and leaves) are harvested and used for medicinal purposes.

Wood betony has tonic properties and makes a refreshing, mildly aromatic infusion, also known as tea. It is considered an effective digestive tonic as it improves the digestive system. It invigorates a weak digestive system with its gentle warming qualities and eases digestive inflammatory symptoms.

Apart from boosting the functioning of the digestive system, the plant is also great for soothing and calming frayed nerves especially at the end of a tough working day. In addition, wood betony is considered an effective anti-anxiety remedy. The plant is said to be so effective that a single sip has the ability to relax your body and mind. Its relaxative effects are also known to assist in alleviating tension headaches and easing people to sleep especially when insomnia occurs due to racing thoughts.

Today, you no longer need to sell your coat to buy wood betony as it is easily available from Amazon and plant specialty stores. So, why not place your order of this highly regarded plant right away?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Not Just For Monarchs: Yes, You Can Eat Common Milkweed Flowers

November 15, 2019

Common milkweed, also known as butterfly flower, silkweed, or asclepias syriaca, is a rough, weedy, flowering plant native to the eastern US and southern Canada. It is a tall, conspicuous plant that tends to colonize disturbed places. The common milkweed normally thrives in a wide variety of habitats including pastures, ditches, crop fields, and roadsides.

Common milkweed is the plant that comes into the minds of most people when the word “milkweed” is mentioned. However, there are more than 100 species of this herb native to the US. Milkweeds got their name from the sappy fluid containing cardiac glycosides they produce when their leaves are crushed.

The common milkweed is an important part of nature as it is the sole source of food for monarch butterflies. When ingested by these insects, the cardiac glycoside in the plant makes the butterflies less susceptible to predators as its flesh tastes distasteful. In addition, these butterflies depend on the plant for propagation by laying their eggs on the underside of the leaves. When the larvae hatch, they feed on the leaves until they turn into a pupa.

Milkweed brings forth beautiful balls of purple to pink blossoms with a sweet fragrance in mid-summer. Each flower features 5 reflexed petals and a white crown at the center which is surrounded by purplish-pink, white, fleshy hoods.

In spite of ifs toxic juices, the plant’s flowers and buds are edible when cooked. To make these aerial parts edible, they have to be boiled for at least 5 minutes with no less than one change of water to get rid of the toxins.

In addition, Pehr Kalm, a Swedish traveler, reported that French settlers in Canada used to make sugar from the dew-covered blossoms of the common milkweed. According to his observations, the French would harvest the flowers very early in the morning when they were still dew-covered. They would press out the dew and boil the resulting liquid, which gave way to a sweet, brown sugar-like substance.

There are also reports of the natives drying the sap from the plant over a fire. The bitter taste seemed to wane with the overnight drying and the resulting gummy substance served as chewing gum.

In small amounts, common milkweed flowers can be eaten raw. The blossoms can be sprinkled on salads, soups, and meats including fish.

Ultimately, whether you choose to grow the common milkweed for its beautiful, fragrant flowers, your love for monarchs or for its culinary qualities, this wildflower is a great asset in your garden.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Horehound, also known as marrubium vulgare

Horehound For Respiratory And Digestive Tract Health

November 13, 2019

Horehound, also known as white horehound, and botanically referred to as marrubium vulgare, is a flowering perennial plant that originated from the Mediterranean region. The plant spread to North America via the colonialists and later escaped to other parts of the world. This member of the mint family easily adapts to new environments because it is not a fussy plant and requires little attention. The plant thrives in warm temperatures and fertile soil.

White horehound’s aerial parts, especially the flowers, are used to make herbal formulas. The plant has a bitter taste and though it is not popular compared to other medicinal herbs, horehound has been used in German cough drops and syrups for years.

Basically, the use of white horehound as a medicinal plant has been practiced for more than 2,000 years. The plant was such a highly regarded respiratory treatment that physicians attending to pharaohs used it generously to treat conditions affecting their airways.

White horehound’s flowers and other aerial parts are known to contain several health-boosting properties including essential oils, bitter lactone, flavonoids, sterols, saponins, and alkaloids. In addition, they have diterpenes, monoterpenes, and vitamin C.

Great for your respiratory system
Horehound is commonly found in lozenges and cough syrups for a good reason. Diterpenes found in this plant such as marrubiin give it expectorant qualities. In addition, studies show that white horehound has analgesic and antispasmodic properties. A combination of expectorant, antispasmodic and analgesic properties explain the reason why horehound is an ideal expectorant.

Improves digestion
Apart from helping in the elimination of mucus and relieving pain, marrubiin is known to have bitter properties, making it an excellent choice for enhancing digestion. Basically, plants with a bitter taste tend to be great for the digestive tract including helping with conditions such as dyspepsia.

So, why are herbs with bitter qualities good for the digestive tract? A common explanation is that the bitter taste induces excretion of gastrointestinal juices. These fluids are critical for ensuring the thorough digestion of food.

Relieves motion sickness
Motion sickness is an old condition that occurs due to disturbances in the inner ear as a result of movement when traveling by train, plane or car. The condition is characterized by nausea, dizziness, abdominal discomfort and diaphoresis. Motion sickness normally goes away by itself when movement stops. However, the condition can seriously hamper the ability of a person to travel. As more people turn to natural methods of resolving most illnesses, horehound has emerged as an ideal remedy for this condition.

Horehound may not be a popular plant compared to herbs such as sage, roses, and yarrow. However, as the winter knocks, this is one plant you want in your corner when your respiratory system seizes up.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Blue Cohosh To Induce Labor?

November 12, 2019

Blue cohosh, botanically known as caulophyllum thalictroides, is a perennial, flowering plant native to the woodlands of the US. The name cohosh is derived from the word co-os, meaning pine tree. This is probably in reference to the spiked appearance of cohosh plants. The second name, blue, alludes to the fruit borne by the plant, which is basically blue-green in color.

[Disclaimer: Large amounts of blue cohosh is known to cause headaches, nausea, and high blood pressure. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

The plant thrives in rich, moist soils with lots of shade. Curiously, blue cohosh is almost impossible to grow from seeds, but root divisions do well as long as they are planted in an environment similar to a woodland.

Blue cohosh produces tiny blossoms with 6 green to purplish sepals that are elliptical in shape resembling petals. However, the actual petals are normally at the base of the longer sepals. They are fan-shaped and produce nectar.

The flowers of blue cohosh are said to be parturifacient. This means that they have the ability to induce or facilitate childbirth. To facilitate labor, pregnant women would drink an infusion made from blue cohosh flowers which was made more potent by adding powdered roots of the plant. The concoction was normally taken a week or two before the due date and could not be drunk earlier because it carried the possibility of inducing premature labor, leading to a miscarriage.

Apart from inducing labor, blue cohosh is also famous for resolving gynecological problems including dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and menorrhagia.

Blue cohosh was so famous that it was included in the US Pharmacopoeia from the early 1800s to the early 1900s as an effective drug for inducing labor. During this period, midwives and physicians used it generously to induce labor. The plant was also widely used by Native American tribes such as Iroquois, Micmac, Cherokee and Penobscot as an analgesic and for resolving gynecological problems. Carl von Linne, a Swedish botanist, and physician recommended the plant for uterine problems, pain relief, and heart problems.

So, what makes blue cohosh an effective birth aid? Studies show that the plant contains a saponin known as caulosaponin. This is the compound responsible for stimulating uterine contractions to induce labor.

A series of laboratory experiments in 2012 suggested that blue cohosh extracts have the ability to inhibit the expression of certain pro-inflammatory cells. While the study was limited and inconclusive, the researcher concluded that the plant holds a lot of promise in treating inflammation. In addition, the plant is said to have anticonvulsant, antirheumatic, sedative and febrifuge properties.

Though science has not yet conclusively given blue cohosh the thumbs-up for use as a labor-inducing herb, the plant holds a lot of promise for facilitating childbirth.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Sweet alyssum has medicinal and culinary properties

Sweet Alyssum: The Honey-scented Flower

November 11, 2019

Sweet alyssum or Lobularia maritime is a flowering shrub in the Brassicaceae family. It is native to northern Africa, southern Europe, and the Canary Islands. Alyssum, the plant’s genus, comprises of more than a 100 species. The alyssum genus has both perennial and annual plants.

Sweet alyssum, is a tough plant requiring little pampering and capable of surviving mild frosts that kill other tender plants. This small shrub features oblong or oval leaves and produces clusters of fragrant, small yellow, purple to white flowers from June to October that are great for floral arrangements. Normally, the flowers have small, blunt petals arranged in a square shape.

Though all sweet alyssum flowers are popular for their beauty and longevity, the white variety is more popular compared to the yellow or purple varieties. White sweet alyssum blossoms are normally used alongside blue ageratum and red salvia as a show of patriotism in the US for July 4th (Independence Day) celebrations and for adorning monuments on Memorial Day.

Sweet alyssum has a very subtle fragrance that is often described as flirty and seems to be more fragrant in the morning compared to later in the day. Gardeners claim that its subtle aroma is similar to beeswax or honey which makes it ideal for growing around the house.

Sweet alyssum flowers have antiscorbutic and astringent properties. As a result, the plant has been held in high regard for its ability to treat many health issues including:

Kidney problems
Sweet alyssum flowers have been shown to be highly effective in managing kidney disorders including ascites, renal failure, and edema. The beneficial compounds in these flowers assist in the prevention and halting of renal failure by inducing diuresis. This hastens the removal of excess water from kidneys by enhancing renal functions. In addition, the flowers help in flushing out excess salt and toxins accumulated in the body by increasing the secretion of urine which assists in detoxifying the body.

Sweet alyssum is also used for:

Treating gonorrhea, abdominal pains, cold and flu

Relieves pain and stanches bleeding from gums

Treating rabies, commonly known as mad-dog disease

Lowering accumulation of fluids in body cells and tissues

Apart from being a handy medicinal plant, sweet alyssum flowers are edible. The blossoms are used to enhance flavor in salads and other dishes where pungency is required. The flowers are great for making candy due to their honey fragrance.

Sweet alyssums are great flowers. They require very little care to thrive, can withstand mild frosts, make for great floral arrangements, and have medicinal as well as edible qualities.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Camellia sinensis or tea tree, is a famous for brewing tea

Meet Camellia Sinensis, The Tea Plant

November 10, 2019

Had a cup of tea today? If you are like most people, the answer is an emphatic yes. And chances are that you did not give the sweet, refreshing beverage much thought. Here is what you need to know about the tea you just drank.

Camellia sinensis, commonly known as tea plant, is a flowering shrub native to China. However, it has been naturalized in many parts of the world including North America. Here, it thrives in the US Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 to 9. The plant needs well-drained, moist soil and full sun or partial shade to grow and can make an ideal hedge. It is also great as an ornamental plant as it brightens up gardens during the fall with its beautiful, fragrant flowers which also attracts pollinating insects.

The benefits of the tea plant were discovered accidentally in 2737 B.C.E by a Chinese Emperor Shen Nong. Legend has it that when boiling water in the garden, a leaf from a tea shrub overhanging the boiling pot fell into the pot. The resulting beverage tasted better, sweeter and was quite refreshing compared to plain water. This led the emperor to research the tree, uncovering the edible and medicinal properties of the plant. Since then, the tea plant has always been a constant human companion.

While there are many tea plant varieties making different types of teas, only two varieties are known for making most of the popular teas you hear about: camellia sinensis sinensis (Chinese tea) and camellia sinensis assamica (India or assam tea).

The tea plant has glossy leaves featuring serrated edges that look similar to bay leaf (laurus nobilis). It flowers once in 12 months in the fall, bringing forth white, yellow or pink blossoms. These flowers are harvested and brewed into a smooth, sweet and relaxing tea. Tea made from the flowers tends to age well and develop a full, rich taste.

Apart from the flowers, the young leaves of the tea plant are used in making tea. These aerial parts are known to contain various compounds beneficial to humans including antioxidants such as polyphenols. They are ideal for lowering the risk of heart disease, regulating blood sugar and cholesterol levels, as well as improving the body’s metabolism.

In a study conducted by the University of Maryland Medical Center, researchers reported that tea made from this plant holds the potential in reducing the risk of developing inflammation related to arthritis. Another study established that fluoride in tea plant helped in preventing tooth cavities and was also effective in preventing and hastening recovery from cold and flu.

Now, there you have it. The tea you just had has a long, rich history. And the good news is that tea is not only a refreshing beverage, it is also medicinal.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

California poppy is great for treating anxiety

California Poppy Flower For Anxiety

November 7, 2019

Eschscholzia californica, commonly known as California poppy, or gold poppy, is a wildflower native to the western part of the US and Mexico. However, this annual plant is now naturalized in most of North America, Australia, Europe, and Chile.

The plant was chosen to be the official state flower of California on March 2, 1903, owing to its showy flowers. Since then, California Poppy Day is celebrated annually on April 6.

Gold poppy has fern-like leaves and four-petaled, cup-like flowers in yellow, pink, orange or red colors that open at sunrise and close at dusk. The plant is hardy, self-seeding, and drought-resistant. Gardeners love California poppy for its showy flowers, as it brightens gardens, and for its medicinal qualities. The plant prefers to grow in disturbed areas and can be found thriving in disturbed places including alongside roadsides.

While this plant is in the same family as the opium poppy (papaver somniferous), its active compounds are isoquinolone alkaloids, not opioids, which make it harmless compared to its addictive cousin. One of the active compounds in the gold poppy plant is californidine, an alkaloid which has sedative effects minus the disorientative aspect of opioids. In addition, californidine can be used long-term without getting dependent on the substance compared to most sedatives.

In low doses, californidine has relaxative effects, but in higher doses, it induces sleep, gently. This explains why California poppy infusion was administered to restless, colicky babies. In addition, the plant has analgesic properties.

Studies show that extracts from the gold poppy plant work partially by blocking noradrenaline and serotonin transporters. There are studies that seem to suggest that California poppy may also have the ability to inhibit dopamine-B-hydroxylase. This is a transmitter that carries signals to and fro brain cells, which contribute to feelings of reinforcement, reward, and addiction.

Though this plant is popular for its anxiety-calming effects, Pomo Indians in California used extracts of the plant to dry up nursing mothers’ milk. Other native tribes used decoctions and infusions of the California poppy flower to eliminate lice and calm toothaches.

While the medicinal properties of the poppy are found throughout the plant, most people use the newly opened flowers as they contain the highest concentration of the beneficial compounds. When fresh, California poppy contains cyanogenic glycosides which are poisonous when consumed in large amounts. To avoid the risk of ingesting these toxins, the flowers and other aerial parts are dried for several weeks before being used for medicinal purposes.

Whether you choose to grow California poppy for its beautiful flowers or medicinal properties, there is no doubt that this is a flower you should have in your garden.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Shepherd’s Needle: An Underappreciated Medicinal And Edible Wildflower

November 6, 2019

Bidens alba, commonly known as shepherd’s needle, demon spike grass, bur-marigold, pitchfork weed, and Spanish needles, is a short-lived perennial or annual, flowering plant. It is a member of the aster family and closely related to daisy, echinacea, and sunflowers.

The plant is native to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America but now grows abundantly in most of the US and other parts of the world. In some regions, the plant is considered noxious and invasive because of its ability to self-sow aggressively and colonize the ground it gets established on. Shepherd’s needle is also disliked because it quickly grows back after cutting.

Shepherd’s needle’s got the name pitchfork needle from its prickly, fork-like seeds with their two prongs that help them to hitch a ride on humans and animals brushing past the plant.

It prefers full sunshine and can thrive in dry areas though it does better in moist soils. Shepherd’s needle brings forth flowers between April and July that look similar to daisies. The flowers are normally creamy-white petals with a yellow center.

Most people who loathe shepherd’s needle do not know that having it around is a blessing in disguise as its flowers and leaves are edible. They can be eaten raw or cooked. The flowers and leaves are versatile and can be tossed in soups, salads, or used as pot-herb to flavor dishes. In addition, newly opened flowers and young leaves taste great when stir-fried on their own or alongside other vegetables.

Shepherd’s needle is rich in vitamin C and carotene which made it ideal for protecting people against scurvy when this condition was a common threat. It also contains sufficient levels of manganese, sodium, iron, nickel, copper, and calcium. Since the plant is known to contain linolenic, palmitic, linolenic, stearic, and fatty acids, it is considered a useful ingredient in supplements.

Apart from treating scurvy, shepherd’s needle was used to treat various ailments due to its many medicinal qualities including anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. In Wales, the plant was widely used to treat respiratory problems including pneumonia. To treat these diseases, the patient was required to drink an infusion made of shepherd’s needle, water avens, and meadowsweet for three consecutive days.

Though shepherd’s needle is still considered a noxious plant rather than a wildflower, this hardy plant is useful to humans. Unfortunately, its ability to self-sow and colonize new territories will always be its Achilles’ heels.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

5 Top Health Benefits Of Thyme

November 4, 2019

Thymus vulgaris, commonly referred to as thyme, a perennial, Mediterranean herb has ornamental, dietary and medicinal uses. These beneficial properties are usually found in the flowers and leaves of the plant.

Thymol, the naturally-occurring essential oil in thyme, is categorized as a biocide. Biocides are compounds with the ability to destroy harmful microorganisms including bacteria. According to a study in 2010, thymol is capable of lowering or eliminating bacterial resistance to first-line antibiotics such as penicillin.

Thyme’s medicinal qualities have been exploited and harnessed throughout the ages to treat various ailments including seizures, melancholia, respiratory problems, menstrual cramps, and fungal infections. In modern times, thyme is prescribed for diarrhea, whooping cough, low appetite, and intestinal issues.

Top health benefits of thyme include:

Antioxidant
Thyme has phenolic antioxidants which include thymonin, lutein, and zeaxanthin. These are responsible for the neutralization and elimination of free radicals from the body.

Heart friendly
A combination of minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins in thyme has positive effects on the heart, however, it is manganese and potassium that are specifically important for heart health. Potassium reduces the strain on the cardio system by relaxing blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure while manganese is one of the most important antioxidants which protects your heart against the effects of free radicals.

A study, using laboratory rats, supplemented the rodents’ diet with thymol. The researchers found that the rodents showed high activity and antioxidant levels throughout their lifespans. The study concluded that thyme oil is ideal for preventing cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks and strokes.

Antifungal
Yeast infections are common conditions that occur in the vagina and mouth. The condition usually referred to as thrush is caused by a fungus known as candida albicans. Researchers have established that thymol shows great potential in destroying the fungus and eliminating it from the human body.

Good for you eyesight
Thyme contains sufficient levels of vitamin A and carotenoids. These are highly effective in taking care of your eye health as carotenoids neutralize free radicals that increase the possibility of developing cataracts and macular degeneration.

Good for your mental health
Thyme’s fragrant oil is often used for therapeutic and aromatic purposes due to an active compound in the oil known as carvacol. In a study conducted in 2013, the compound was shown to have a positive effect on neurons in a way that boosts the well-being feelings of a person using the oil.

Thyme is an all-round herb that looks good in your garden, tastes great on your plate and helps to keep you healthy. A truly miraculous plant that you should have in your backyard.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Time for Thyme, The Nearly Perfect Cooking Herb

November 3, 2019

Thyme or thymus vulgaris is an evergreen, perennial, flowering herb native to the Mediterranean region and belonging to the mint family. The herb is a popular cooking companion and is one of the most used plants in the culinary world.

Thymus vulgaris’ English name, thyme, is borrowed from a Latin word, thymus. This goes back to a Greek word, thymon, which originally meant smoke or spirit. The reference is probably due to the pungent, smoky fragrance of the plant.

Thyme, just like most herbs originating from the Mediterranean region, prefers poor, mildly alkaline, well-drained soils and plenty of sunshine. The herb does not grow in the shade but can withstand windy conditions. It can be grown from seed or cuttings bought from a reputable plant specialist. In the US, thyme thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. It can grow in zone 10 but the herb is likely to die off due to heat, so, anyone intending to grow thyme should plant the herb when the weather is more forgiving. Thyme is an interesting plant that thrives when left alone compared to fussing over it.

The herb has been used as a frontline cooking herb alongside other popular culinary plants such as sage and rosemary for years in Europe. Monasteries, the ancient keepers of great culinary herbs and medicinal practices, used thyme regularly in their recipes. In addition, they used the plant as a preservative for foods such as meats.

Thyme has a very sweet aroma, not to mention a pungent, warm taste. The plant’s fragrance is due to the presence of thymol, a volatile oil, which gives thyme its culinary value. It has a distinct flavor that brings a depth of flavor to stews, soups, bakings, and meaty dishes.

The herb flowers from May to August, bringing forth white, pink, and lavender tubular blossoms that attract bees and other pollinating insects. Thyme’s blossoms have a milder taste compared to the leaves, so, if you do not fancy the pungent flavor of its leaves, using flowers is your best bet.

Thyme is commonly used in Italian dishes where it is fondly referred to as “timo”. The plant is so popular that culinary enthusiasts and herbalists say it’s a nearly perfect herb. Thyme’s flowers and leaves are regularly tossed in salads as garnishing, chopped and allowed to steep for flavoring beverages or used alongside other herbs such as garlic, lemon or basil.

Ultimately, the popularity of thyme as a herb of choice in the culinary world shows no signs of slowing down. And there is no better time to get thyme going like now before winter kicks in later in the year when the herb is likely to go dormant. So, how about ordering thyme sprigs from a specialty store or sowing some seeds in your garden?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Skullcap, The Tranquilizing Herb

November 2, 2019

Skullcap, botanically known as scutellaria lateriflora, is a flowering, perennial herb native to North America. The plant, also known as blue skullcap, American skullcap, and mad-dog skullcap, belongs to the mint family. It originated from North America and unlike other mint species, thrives in marshes and damp areas. The plant’s English name is derived from the resemblance of its flowers to helmets donned by European soldiers.

Between July and September, skullcap produces beautiful, double-colored flowers that are blue and pale purple. The blossoms occur in axils of upper leaves and not at the top of the main stem compared to most flowers.

The medicinal qualities of skullcap’s flowers and leaves were discovered and first exploited by Native Americans who introduced the plant to European settlers. The natives realized that the aerial parts of skullcap had the ability to help people struggling with insomnia and anxiety.

Much later, medical science confirmed that skullcap’s flowers and leaves when harvested as soon as the plant came into bloom contained high levels of flavonoids such as baicalin and scutellarin.

Basically, baicalin and scutellarin are the two active compounds thought to be responsible for skullcap’s antispasmodic and sedative properties. The compounds have a sedative effect by acting as GABA agonists just like benzodiazepines.

Ancient people did not fully comprehend the concept of the active compounds that made skullcap highly effective as a tranquilizer. But they knew that it was great for treating nervous problems including nervousness, hysteria, sleeping problems, chorea, neurasthenia, and epilepsy. They also used it to treat digestive problems, menstrual disorders, and kidney problems.

Apart from treating mental problems, skullcap is also used to treat arthritis, convulsions, insect stings, fever, and jerking muscles. Initially, skullcap was used to treat rabies, which explains why the plant was fondly referred to as mad dog skullcap.

Today skullcap is predominantly prescribed for problems affecting the nervous system. Studies show that the herb can be used in combination with other tranquilizing drugs or individually.

Currently, a general consensus exists between physicians and scientists stipulating that there is a need for an in-depth study into skullcap to find out the full benefits of the plant.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Comfrey is great for healing broken bones and wounds

Comfrey For Healing Broken Bones And Wounds

October 30, 2019

Symphytum officinale, commonly known as comfrey or bone-set, is a flowering shrub native to Asia and Europe. It is said to have been brought to North America by early European colonialists. Comfrey quickly adapted to the new environment and soon escaped to grow in the wild, where it gradually spread to the rest of the world.

The plant has a long flowering period starting from late spring to autumn. During this period, comfrey produces beautiful, multi-colored bell-like flowers ranging from yellow to fading pink. The flowers are edible and have medicinal properties too.

Initially, the plant was referred to as knitbone due to its ability to heal broken bones and knit them together almost as if they had not broken. This might also explain why the plant’s botanical name is symphytum, a Latin word, borrowed from Greek, indicating coming or growing together of bones.

The aerial parts of the plant (stems, flowers and leaves) as well as the roots are used to relief inflammation. These parts of the plant are known to contain rosmarinic and allantoin acid. Rosmarinic acid relieves pain and swelling while allantoin encourages the activity of cell proliferation or growth of new cells. This leads to the mending of broken bones and the healing of wounds. Normally, herbal preparations such as poultices and infusions contain 5-20 percent of the two acids.

Comfrey is so effective in healing bruises and cuts that some people think it is magical. Travelers report applying poultices made of the aerial parts of the plant at the site of the external injuries which had already turned blue-black and leaving it overnight. By the time they woke up in the morning, the discolored bruises had started fading from blue-black to yellow, indicating recovery. Such transformations are quite rare even with pharmaceutical products. For the topical treatment of pulled muscles, sprains, fractures and swelling, a poultice or compress soaked in the plant’s infusion is applied to the affected area.

While comfrey is a highly effective healer of minor cuts, bruises, sprains, and broken bones, it is not recommended for deep cuts. Here, the logic is that comfrey is likely to heal the outer layer of the wound faster, compared to the inner part, resulting in an abscess. However, for minor cuts, bruises, and scratches, the herb works wonders.

In the past, comfrey was used to treat internal problems such as digestive tract and respiratory system infections by Greek and European physicians. Today, it is not recommended for internal use because the plant is known to contain alkaloids which can get toxic to the liver in high doses.

While scientific studies are still ongoing to understand the full benefits of comfrey, initial tests have confirmed that this plant is as effective in treating minor cuts, sprains and joint pain just as ancient wisdom held.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Damiana, also known as turnera diffusa,is a great natural aphrodisiac

Damiana: A Natural Aphrodisiac?

October 29, 2019

Damiana, scientifically known as turnera diffusa, is a flowering shrub native to the southern part of the US especially Texas, the Caribbean, and Mexico. It produces yellow flowers and has small, yellow-brownish leaves that produce a sweet aroma when crushed. The plant is also known as Mexicana damiana, herba de la pastora, and old woman’s broom. Damiana’s aerial parts (flowers, leaves, and stems) contain essential oils that are known to have medicinal qualities.

According to scientific records on the plant, damiana’s use as an aphrodisiac dates back more than 100 years. The Maya people were the first to use the plant to treat loss of balance and giddiness, later it became popular for boosting libido.

Father Juan Maria de Salvatierra, a Spanish missionary, was one of the first people to describe the use of the plant in Mexico. According to his reports, Mexican Indians made an infusion from the plant and drank it to increase their libido. During the late 1800s, a tincture of the plant was imported in the US and marketed as a life-changing aphrodisiac which had the ability to assist the aged and feeble to rise to the occasion.

In 1888, damiana was listed in the United States Pharmacopeia and National Formulary as an elixir but was later dropped and lost popularity. As a result, the plant was almost forgotten as a herbal remedy, but thanks to the hippy movement in the 60s, damiana elixir started gaining popularity. Today, damiana is sold as a herbal over-the-counter product for inducing a legal high as well as an aphrodisiac.

In a study published in the US National Library of Medicine, rats experiencing sexual impotency were given fluid extracts of damiana. Researchers found that the rats experienced improved copulatory performance with increased ejaculation. Scientifically, this indicates that damiana is indeed effective in resolving male impotency.

Apart from resolving male impotency, damiana was shown to be effective in assisting women to deal with sexual problems including vaginal dryness and low libido. In addition, damiana has been cited for being effective in helping menopausal women resolve a lack of sexual desire better compared to hormone replacement therapy.

Damiana has been shown to help people lose weight. In a study titled “Weight Loss and Delayed Gastric Emptying”, a herbal decoction containing damiana, guarana (paullinia cupana), and yerba mate (ilex paraguariensis) was said to be highly effective in delaying gastric emptying. The delay which also occasioned a perception of gastric fullness assisted overweight people to shed the extra pounds.

While the jury is still out on how damiana works to help men and women deal with sexual problems, this is a plant worth having in your garden.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Rue is the forgotten cooking herb of Roman times

Rue: The Forgotten Roman Cooking Herb

October 28, 2019

Rue, botanically known as ruta graveolens, is an evergreen, flowering herb featuring green-bluish leaves. It is native to the Western part of Asia and the Mediterranean region and thrives in partial or full sun. The plant is a hardy plant and can thrive in dry conditions as long as it is established. In addition, rue is perfectly happy in poor soil.

Ruta graveolens is a fascinating plant. It produces small, yellow flowers, which along, with its foliage, give off a strong, obnoxious smell. This explains why the plant’s genus, graveolens, is loosely translated to mean “having an offensive or strong smell.

[Disclaimer: In large quantities such amounts exceeding 120 milligrams, rue is known to cause powerful cramps, hallucinations, and twitching. The plant has been cited for causing phototoxicity on contact which can lead to severe burns and blisters.]

In days gone by, rue was the herb of choice in Roman kitchens where it was used in spicy pastes. The herb’s flowers and leaves were commonly used alongside coriander, garlic, hard cheese, and celery. Its botanical name, “Ruta” is derived from Greek, meaning “to set free”. This was due to rue’s chief use in breaking spells cast by witches. In addition, it was a key component in antidotes for toxins.

The plant is also considered a herb of repentance or grace in accordance with its use in Catholic rituals. It is said that Leonardo de Vinci and Michelangelo used this plant regularly for its ability to boost creativity and eyesight.

Today, rue is no longer an important cooking herb because we have drastically changed our culinary tastes. In the past, using a herb that imparted bitter undertones to a dish and helped to balance the salty, sweet, sour and hot flavors was considered a top culinary skill, but this is no longer the case.

Ruta graveolens is among the few plants considered heirloom herbs because it has remained unchanged since ancient times. No attempts have been made to selectively grow certain strains of the plant or to hybridize it. What you see growing around is virtually the same plant that grew in rue’s native habitat years ago.

In spite of falling out of favor as a culinary delight, rue is still used today in some Italian recipes passed down through generations of renowned cooks. In addition, Italians make a brandy known as Candolini Grappa Ruta which has rue as one of the main ingredients. The herb gives the liqueur a bitter taste which some people find too pungent for their liking.

Rue flowers and leaves are known to go well with sour or acidic dishes such as tomato sauces or capers. The herb tames and tones down their bitterness or sour taste, making the dishes sing.

Though rue has fallen out of favor as a cooking herb, it is still a great herb that enhances the flavor of dishes as long as it is used in moderation.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Passionflower is great for treating insomnia and anxiety

Passionflower For Your Anxiety And Insomnia

October 27, 2019

Passiflora incarnata, commonly known as passionflower, is a climbing plant that is native to the tropics and occurs naturally from Missouri to Virginia, Arkansas, and Florida.

The plant brings forth large, beautiful purplish flowers with prominent stamens and styles. These flowers are not only intricately shaped but also have many health benefits including helping calm anxious people and insomniacs.

Indigenous Americans were the first people to discover and successfully use the passionflower to deal with anxiety and insomnia. Soon, settlers got wind of the wonderful plant used by locals to help people deal with frayed nerves and lack of sleep.

With time, passionflower became a renowned sedative and was marketed as a perfect sleep aid in the US until 1978 when it was discouraged by authorities for lack of proof that it was effective. Since then, the passionflower has been studied and tested to find out its full potential in helping with anxiety and insomnia.

While the ride to fame for passionflower seemed to have been stopped or slowed down, the setback was only temporary. Recently, passionflower supplements have been gaining traction as more people turn to natural cures to avoid or deal with negative side-effects associated with pharmaceutical products.

At a basic level, passionflower is known to contain flavonoids such as benzoflavone and chrysin. These are said to be the primary components that reduce anxiety and promote sleep.

Benzoflavone and chrysin are said to be highly effective in enhancing the amount of GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid), a naturally-occurring amino acid that functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain. Normally, neurotransmitters work as messengers. Specifically, GABA functions as an inhibitor by blocking certain brain signals or impulses which reduces activity in the nervous system thus effectively promoting a sense of calmness and inducing sleep.

Surprisingly, benzoflavone and chrysin in passionflowers are said to be as effective as prescription anti-anxiety drugs commonly known as benzodiazepines. In 2007, a study involving 198 participants compared the effectiveness of passionflower and basic prescription drugs used to reduce anxiety. The study concluded that extracts from the flower were as effective as the drugs. However, the study noted that since it involved a small number of participants, more research was required to make better conclusions about the plant.

In another study published in the Phytotherapy Research journal, participants who took a dose of an herbal infusion made from passionflower reported improvements in their sleep pattern after 7 days. Drawing from these results, researchers concluded that passionflower was great in assisting adults suffering from insomnia fall and stay asleep.

Judging from the above studies, passionflower is great at resolving anxiety and insomnia. However, research is ongoing to find out the full effects of passionflower against anxiety, insomnia and other health problems affecting humanity.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Great burdock is also known as arctium lappa

Burdock For Food And Detox

October 25, 2019

Burdock or thorny burr is native to Europe and Asia but has become naturalized to many regions of the world including North America. The plant belongs to the arctium genus in the asteraceae family and has two varieties: arctium lappa (greater burdock) and arctic minus (lesser or smaller burdock). Both are similar in appearance except for their difference in height, however, arctium minus is more common compared to the former. The plant is widely distributed and can be found growing along roadsides, in field borders and empty spaces.

[Disclaimer: Before eating or tasting any plant you find in the wild, make sure it is not poisonous as many wild edible plants have toxic look-alikes. In addition, The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Burdock has large leaves with a heart shape and purple flowers produced from spring to autumn. The plant is easily identified due to its globe-shaped flowers clustered around the top of the stalk featuring stiff, pricky hooks that cling to any passerby. The blossoms have a sweet fragrance which you can only pick up when you take a whiff at a close range. Burdock’s flowers are pink, red or purple with a striking resemblance to blossoms produced by bull thistle (cirsium vulgare).

The plant is highly versatile and is categorized by herbalists as an alterative herb which mean it has a positive effect on the lymph and blood and can be used for detoxification. In addition, Burdock has bitter properties which are great for boosting appetite and digestion.

All aerial parts of the burdock have a coating with a bitter taste. However, if you can endure the bitter taste of the coating, raw flowers, stalks, and leaves have a soft asparagus-like taste. The roots have a better taste with a parsnip-like flavor but are sweeter.

Barely opened flowers of the burdock plant and their stalks can be harvested in late spring and steamed or stir-fried for about 10 minutes or until they are soft. When cooked, these parts taste like artichoke.

Alternatively, you can separate the just-opened flowers from their stalks, peel the burdock stalks, chop them into tiny pieces and soak in cold water with a tablespoonful of vinegar for about 15 minutes. Boil the stalks for 10 minutes, toss in the chopped flowers and boil for another 5 minutes before straining. After straining, boil for an additional 5 minutes. Strain, stir-fry for 5 minutes and serve with fried chicken or duck.

Eating burdock may seem like a daunting task due to its bitter taste and burrs, but once you get past these hurdles, you realize that it is a great delicacy worth the trouble.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food, Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Water Avens: Nature’s Chocolate With Health Benefits

October 23, 2019

Water avens, also known as avens, drooping avens, cure-all and botanically referred to as geum rivale is a hairy, perennial flowering plant with an erect stem. The plant is native to North America, UK, and Siberia and belongs to the rosaceae (rose) family.

The plant is fondly referred to as Indian chocolate in the US because native Americans used it to make chocolate by boiling the roots to make a chocolate-like beverage. Later the beverage was adopted by colonists as a substitute for chocolate and for flavoring brandy or drinking water.

Between May and July, water avens produces purple or red nodding flowers that make the plant quite a sight to behold and easy to identify. In some instances, the plant may bring forth purplish sepals with yellow or rose-colored petals.

Apart from being used as a substitute for chocolate, water avens flowers and roots are used for medicinal purposes. The colonialists used the fresh or dried root of the plant to cure malaria and sore throat.

The plant contains tannin which is thought to be responsible for astringent actions. This explains why water avens is commonly used to treat uterine hemorrhage, diarrhea, ulcerative colitis, and fevers. In addition, the plant has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities.

In ancient times, a mixture of water avens’ flowers, leaves, and roots, combined with St.John’s wort was boiled in milk and mixed with butter to treat hoarseness. Alternatively, a cold infusion was made by soaking the dried, powdered root in cold water for a day and a cupful taken daily until the symptoms subsided.

Water avens is known to contain compounds that help in treating fertility problems. It was used to resolve gynecological problems including painful and irregular menses. This curious cure was made using ashes of a hart’s horn killed with its antlers on, red bastard balm (melittis melissophyllum), goosefoot, and small burdock (arctium minus). The mixture was boiled and mixed with wine before being administered daily until it was finished. Ancient people believed that drinking this concoction diverted the menstrual blood to the ankles and thighs.

Water avens may not be showy, popular or fragrant compared to other flowers in the rose family, but it is truly a perfect example of Mother Nature’s providence. After all, it is not every day you encounter a plant with chocolate qualities, right?

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Mugwort, The Magical Herb

October 21, 2019

Mugwort, or artemisia vulgaris, is a hardy, vigorous, woody, perennial, flowering plant native to Europe. It belongs to the potent artemisia family named after Artemis, the Greek god of fertility, forests, and hunting. Famous herbs in this family include wormwood and sagebrush which have long herbal traditions alongside mugwort. Apart from the name mugwort, the plant goes by several names including old uncle Henry, and wild wormwood.

Artemisia vulgaris got the name mugwort from its wide use in flavoring beer before the advent of hops. In addition, it was used to ward off evil spirits and regulate fertility.

During the Middle Ages, the plant acquired a new name, cingulum sancti johnnis, as it was believed that John the Baptist wore a girdle of the plant during his time in the wilderness for protection. This explains why it is known as St. John’s plant.

Mugwort is quite tough and once the plant gets established, it becomes drought resistant and easily outgrows other plants. In addition, mugwort is known to inhibit the growth of other nearby plants via root secretions. As a result, the plant is categorized as invasive and aggressive.

Mugwort grows in well-aerated slightly alkaline or neutral, loamy soil. It prefers sunny areas and well-watered soils but can grow in partial shade with less water. Plants grown in dry, poor soils tend to have more aromatic scent compared to those growing in ideal conditions.

The has purplish stems resembling Bordeaux wine. The leaves are dark green on the upper part and feature downy hairs on the underside. It produces pale yellow or reddish flowers between July and October. When crushed, mugwort leaves and flowers have a pleasant sage-like scent.

All of its parts (flowers, leaves, stems, and roots) contain medicinal properties. The entire plant is anthelmintic, diaphoretic, stomachic, nervine, emmenagogue, oneirogen and diuretic. In addition, it is edible, which explains why its flowers were commonly used to flavor beer.

To get the best and highest concentration of essential oils from this plant, pick the flowers as soon as they bloom because this is when they have the highest concentration of volatile oils. If you intend to use the leaves, harvest them before the plant comes out in bloom and dry them.

As a tonic, mugwort has always been highly regarded for treating fertility problems including regulating menstrual flow. A concoction of dried leaves and flowers is heated and used as a counter-irritant in treating rheumatism. The plant also comes in handy for treating stomach problems, wounds, alleviating depression and eliminating internal and external parasites.

Mugwort is truly a miracle herb with multiple health benefits. You can choose to cultivate the plant for its ornamental value, its medicinal qualities or for culinary purposes.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Field Scabious : An Effective But Almost Forgotten Cure For Skin Problems

October 20, 2019

Field scabious, or knautia arvensis, is a perennial, flowering herb native to the Northern regions of Africa and Europe. The plant is also known as scabious, blue buttons, lady’s pincushion and gypsy rose. Field scabious was introduced as an ornamental plant in North America but escaped from gardens and now grows in the wild. Due to its ability to seed and spread fast, it is now considered a noxious or invasive weed in some North American states.

Field scabious prefers to grow in loose, loamy soils such as along river bank, on pastureland, meadows and light-filled forests. It has very hardy roots that are hard to get rid of when they get established.

The plant has rosette-shaped foliage and brings forth beautiful, blue or lilac colored blossoms in summer which make the plant hard to miss when they are in bloom. It has very neat blossoms grouped into clumps with the center flowers bearing a more regular shape compared to blossoms at the edge. The flowers are considered excellent as cut flowers and can last up to 10 days in a vase.

Gardeners often use the plant to brighten and add color to their gardens because of their large, bright flowers. This explains why, in spite of being declared a noxious weed in some regions, the plant is still grown in pursuit of its beautiful, showy flowers.

The plant’s generic name, knautia, is borrowed from a 17th-century botanist, Dr. Knaut. The name scabious is derived from the word scab, meaning a scaly sore. This word is borrowed from the Latin word for scabies, a type of leprosy. Scabious got the name because it was a renowned cure for scabies.

During the 16th century, John Gerard, the English herbalist, wrote that drinking an infusion of this plant was ideal for resolving skin problems. He also claimed taking the infusion promoted sweating which freed the heart from various pestilences and infections.

Apart from its widespread use as a remedy for scabies, ancient physicians used the plant to treat fevers including typhus fever. In addition, the plant was used to treat viper bites and other wounds including joint injuries.

Today, extracts in fluid form from the plant are inhaled or drank as infusions to treat coughs, sore throats. Field scabious extracts are also applied directly to the skin to treat troublesome skin conditions including rashes, anal itching, roundworm infections, and eczema because it has a drying effect.

While scabies no longer poses a threat compared to what it was years ago, field scabious is still great for treating skin condition. However, the plant is no longer popular and its full medicinal potential may not be discovered unless more research is conducted to unpack its health benefits.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Night blooming jasmine, botanically known as cestrum nocturnum

Meet The Shrubby, Potent, Fragrant, Lady of The Night

October 18, 2019

Cestrum nocturnum, commonly known as the night flowering jasmine, lady of the night, night jasmine, queen of the night and night-blooming jasmine is a sprawling, evergreen shrub in the solanaceae family. The plant is thought to have originated in Central America or West Indies.

The plant’s species name, nocturnum, refers to the species curious habit of opening its heavily-aromatic blossoms at night and shedding the flowers at dawn. This explains why it is fondly referred to as the lady of the night.

The queen of the night is said to be the most heavily scented plant in the world. In ideal circumstances, you can pick up its aromatic perfume from 165 feet away. While the strong perfume of the night flowering jasmine is loved and tolerated by most people, it is known to trigger allergic reactions in others.

Gardeners cultivate the night flowering jasmine as an ornamental plant due to its showy and sweet-scented blossoms. In the wild, the shrub thrives in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world and can do well in most places.

Traditionally, the shrub’s flowers were presented as offerings to gods while Nepalese shamans smoked and ate the flowers to enhance spiritual healing energies.

Apart from being a showy plant with white flowers, the night-blooming jasmine has medicinal qualities. These include anti-bacteria, anti-convulsant, anti-fungal, anti-viral, analgesic, anti-hyperlipidemic, and larvicidal properties.

While ancient people did not understand all there was to this plant, they heavily relied on it to cure or manage various ailments. Today, studies have confirmed that the plant contains flavonoids, steroids, glycosides, and alkaloids as well as saponins and tannins which set off healing effects in the human body.

Night jasmine flower extracts are great for regulating bowel movement and toning the stomach as they contain astringent properties. They are also ideal for preventing the formation of gas and managing flatulence in the gastrointestinal tract. The flowers inhibit the excess secretion of digestive fluids from the liver and help in the digestion process.

Night-blooming jasmine contains essentials oils that are famous for their therapeutic and fragrant purposes. These oils are used in aromatherapy for relieving stress, inspiring confidence, boosting moods, boosting libido, massaging and relaxing tired and tense muscles. In addition, the essential oils derived from the lady of the night are used in inhalants and diffusers to decongest clogged airways.

Since these oils have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant as well as tonic qualities, they are good for toning the skin and managing signs of premature aging.

Ultimately, night flowering jasmine is one of the few flowering plants that are considered a gift of nature to humankind. This shrub combines beauty, fragrance, and medicine in one tight package.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Tansy: A Bitter Flowering Herb With Beneficial Qualities

October 16, 2019

Tansy or common tansy, also known as chrysanthemum vulgare, and tanacetum vulgare, is a perennial, flowering plant native to Europe.

The plant was intentionally brought to the US in the 16th century by pilgrims as a horticultural and medicinal herb. As a result, tansy was widely cultivated by European settlers. The plant was highly regarded during this period to an extent that the Massachusetts governor encouraged people to cultivate it. By the 18th century, tansy was naturalized in most of the US states.

Tansy spreads very fast due to its aggressive seed production and extensive root system. The plant thrives in ditches and along stream banks which make it easy for seeds to spread for miles downstream borne by the water current. In spite of its aggressive infestation, the herb is not yet considered an invasive, noxious weed in the US.

During summer, you can easily identify tansy by a camphor-like fragrance produced by its leaves and flowers. The flowers grow in clusters from a straight, leafy stalk. Its flower heads have disk florets that are similar to daisies.

Gardeners cultivate the plant for its beautiful, button-shaped, yellow blossoms as well as its ability to increase potassium content. When planted alongside plants such as potatoes, tansy is highly effective in eliminating certain pests including the Colorado potato beetle due to its aromatic compounds.

Tansy has a range of medicinal qualities that led to its widespread cultivation. In Britain, aerial parts of the tansy herb were put in shoes to relieve fever. The plant was also used to wrap corpses in order to repel vermin and preserve the bodies by early settlers in North America.

The plant is rich in volatile oils that gives its flowers and leaves the signature, camphor-like scent. Thujone, a bitter and potent compound, is the main volatile compound in the plant. The presence of thujone and other aromatic volatile oils has seen the flowers and leaves of the plant used as a sage substitute in cooking. However, its bitter flavor makes it less popular than sage in the culinary world.

Common tansy’s leaves and flowers were used by early US settlers to purify, cleanse and lighten the skin. An infusion of the aerial parts of the plant was commonly used to treat constipation, rheumatism, digestive problems, ulcers, and hysteria. In small doses, an extract made from leaves and flowers was used to enhance fertility and prevent miscarriage. It was also orally administered to people recovering from illnesses or those feeling weak. Larger doses of the infusion were used to induce abortion.

While thujone has culinary and health benefits, it is also toxic when taken in large doses. This is the compound responsible for tansy’s abortion-inducing effects. It is also known to cause hallucinations, convulsions, and death.

Though tansy has many beneficial properties, its bitter flavor and ability to cause unpleasant after-effects when ingested make it an unpopular medicinal and culinary herb.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Harebell Flowers: A Beneficial Plant With A Bunny Connection

October 15, 2019

Harebell, botanically known as campanula rotundifolia, is a small, hairless, creeping, flowering, perennial herb. The plant belongs to the bellflower family. It has trailing stems with small club-like leaves at the base.

Harebell is also known as fairies thimble, devil’s bell, and bluebell. The plant commonly occurs in Eurasia, North America and throughout the northern regions of the world. It inhabits sand dunes, meadows, heaths, roadsides, grasslands and shorelines. The plant is highly tolerant and can grow in full shade, full sun or partial shade.

Harebells can be easily identified by a milky, sticky, white, harmless sap they produce when broken or crushed. They can also be identified by their colorful, droopy, bell-like blossoms.

Bluebell’s genus, campanula, is a Latin word meaning little bell. Its flowers are bell-shaped which might explain their name. Apart from probably deriving its name from the plant’s genus, there are many other explanations for harebell’s name.

A popular school of thought holds that the name harebell is derived from one of the many folklores surrounding this plant. According to this folklore, witches extracted juices from the flower to change themselves into bunnies. In yet another narrative common in the British Isles, it was believed that the flowers were alarm bells that went off whenever foxes tried to sneak around hares to catch them.

During the Victorian Era, there was popular folklore claiming that fairies slept in the bells. Others held that maidens who counted the harebells they saw three times at sunrise had their eyes opened to see fairies who helped them to fulfill their wishes.

Harebells bring forth violet-blue, white, blue or pink blossoms from July to October. These flowers are a common sight in summer as they feature beautiful, distinctive, nodding flower heads. The blossoms occur on long, thin stalks in loose clusters or singly. Though these beautiful flowers are scentless, they often attract bees and other insects in search of the nectar within.

Bluebells have always been cherished as ornamental plants by gardeners for their beautiful flowers. In addition, the blue flowers of the plant were used to produce a dye for making tartan patterns.

Harebell’s flowers and leaves are edible and in some instances, they are grown as vegetables. However, in most circumstances, harebells are foraged in the wild. They can be eaten in salads or cooked as a potherb. You can also add them to smoothies or into homemade dips. Though the plant has edible aerial parts, they are bland and rarely pack much flavor.

Ultimately, whether you grow them for their rich history, or for their beautiful flowers and edible qualities, harebells are great flowers to have in your garden.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers, Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Lantana Camara: Nature’s Cure For Tuberculosis?

October 14, 2019

Lantana camara, commonly known as wild sage, is a small, flowering shrub belonging to the verbanaceae family. The plant is said to have originated from the American tropics but is now naturalized around the world.

The plant grows in a wide variety of habitats in the subtropical and tropical climates. It is highly tolerant of high temperatures but rarely thrives in low temperatures though some varieties can withstand mild frosts. Wild sage prefers growing in unshaded places but can tolerate partial shade.

Wild sage is a hardy plant that normally forms thick vegetation effectively outcompeting and stopping other species from thriving around it. It is known to produce compounds via its roots and shoots which stall the germination or growth of other plants. Lantana camara is also able to spread quickly via seeding, can withstand moderate forest fires and resprouts quickly after cutting. As a result, the shrub is considered a noxious, invasive weed in some regions as it poses a threat to existing biodiversity.

Lantana camara produces small, tubular flowers arranged in clusters at the top and terminal sides of the stem. The flowers have colors ranging from red, orange, yellow, white, and pink while leaves are broad, ovate and grow on opposite sides of the stem.

Wild sage’s leaves and stems produce a mild aroma similar to blackcurrants when crushed that some people consider unpleasant. The flowers have a mild, sweet scent.

A decoction of wild sage’s flowers is known to have cooling and hemostatic effects and is mainly used for treating pulmonary tuberculosis and hemoptysis. They are also used to treat headaches, constipation, wounds, skin conditions and leprosy. Apart from flowers, wild sage’s leaves and bark are rich in terpenes. These are essential oils with the ability to counter inflammation. They possess antimicrobial, insecticidal, fungicidal and nematicidal properties. In addition, these aerial parts have anti-dermatosic, expectorant, antiphlogistic and tonic as well as diaphoretic qualities.

Terpenes demonstrate antimicrobial activities. Antimicrobial compounds inhibit or destroy microbes by degrading the structure and functioning of the membranes and cell walls of the harmful microorganisms. The antimycobacterial activity of terpenes from wild sage is what makes it effective against tuberculosis including the multi-drug resistant strain. These oils can be administered alongside first and second-line drugs used in the treatment of tuberculosis as they do not have adverse effects.

While lantana camara is still considered an invasive, noxious weed in most regions of the world, its ability to treat tuberculosis stands out as a beacon of hope against a disease that is showing signs of resistance against conventional therapies.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Sanicle has excellent medicinal qualities

Sanicle: A Common Herb With Excellent Medicinal Qualities

October 9, 2019

Sanicle, botanically known as sanicula marilandica, is a herbaceous, flowering plant. It is native to British Columbia and the northwestern region of the US. The plant also goes by other names such as pool root, wood sanicle, and black snakeroot. It thrives in well-watered areas with rich soil and preferably under shade.

Sanicle, just like prunella vulgaris, (woundwort) is known as self-heal due to its ability to resolve a wide variety of health problems. Most of the time, only the aerial parts of the plant – flowers, leaves, and stems – are used for medicinal purposes as they contain anti-fungal, alterative, anti-viral, depurative, astringent, and antioxidant properties.

Sanicle’s health benefits include:

Treating and healing wounds
Sanicle has been used for generations to treat cuts, bruises, and wounds. The herb is known to contain compounds that reduce inflammation, fight infections and speed up healing. In addition, extracts from this herb assist in wound contraction and collagen maturation.

Resolves internal health problems
Sanicle contains compounds with anti-hemorrhagic qualities. These help in stopping and stanching excess internal bleeding which makes it handy for resolving hemorrhages in the gastrointestinal tract and the respiratory system. It is also ideal for reducing menstrual bleeding, treating hemorrhoids and curing fevers.

Enhancing the immune system and detoxifying blood
Toxins are poisonous compounds within organisms or living cells. Some of these poisonous substances occur in the human body as a result of metabolism and other factors. With time, these toxins accumulate in the body and can overwhelm the body’s defenses resulting in many chronic conditions.

Since sanicle has antioxidative and detoxifying properties, it is ideal for protecting the body against the effects of free radicals which cause inflammations. In addition, it helps the body to get rid of toxins through detoxification.

Expectorant
Sanicle contains expectorant properties which make it handy for resolving congestion and other problems affecting the respiratory system. It has a soothing action on the respiratory system and thins mucus to help the body get rid of it.

Anti-cancer
Sanicle has been used to shrink cancerous tumors for years. Its anti-oxidant effects appear to be the compounds responsible for shrinking and destroying tumor cells. However, more research is required to find out the full effects of this herb in the fight against cancer and the different types of tumors it can resolve.

With all the benefits outlined above, it is easy to see why sanicle is considered a gift of nature to mankind. So, how about having this herb growing in your backyard?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Bird’s Foot Trefoil: A Strange Twist Of Fate That Provided A Cure

October 7, 2019

Lotus corniculatus, commonly known as bird’s foot trefoil or birdfoot deervetch, is a herbaceous, flowering herb in the pea family. It is native to Europe, temperate regions of Asia, and North Africa. The plant was introduced to North America by colonialists and is now a common sight in the US.

By now, you are probably wondering if the plant has any connection with birds due to its English name. Actually, the name is derived from the similarity of the seed pods on its stalks to a bird’s foot. Sound strange?

Well, lotus corniculatus is never short of curious facts. In the language of flowers, bird’s foot trefoil is one of the few blossoms with a negative connotation as it symbolizes retribution and revenge.

Basically, there are three varieties of bird’s foot trefoil: erect, semi-erect and prostrate. The erect types are commonly used for hay purposes while the prostrate varieties are used for grazing. Semi-erect types can serve both purposes and occur more commonly compared to the other two types.

All varieties of the plant are very hardy and can survive heavy grazing, close mowing, and trampling. They also tolerate poor soils compared to most plants, however, they dislike shaded areas.

Lotus corniculatus contain tannins that are known to boost the absorption of proteins in the small intestines. However, it is important to note that bird’s foot trefoil has cyanogenic glycosides, which turn into hydrogen cyanide when macerated. In spite of this, the plant is rarely toxic to humans because the plant has very little concentration of these toxins and the human body tends to metabolize cyanide very fast.

Bird’s foot trefoil flowers from June to September. During this period, it brings forth yellow or orange, scented blossoms that form clusters at the tip of the stalks. The strong scent of the flowers attracts pollinating insects including bees as the blossoms are an excellent source of nectar.

Bird’s foot medicinal properties were discovered by Henri Leclerc, a French herbalist in the 19th century, by mistake. The herbalist had prescribed an eyewash made from sweet clover (melilotus officinalis) to a woman for treating conjunctivitis, heart palpitations and insomnia due to a nervous problem.

The woman mistook bird’s foot trefoil for sweet clover. She made an infusion from bird’s foot trefoil and drank it. In spite of her mistake, she got healed of her nervous condition within 7 days. An intrigued Leclerc studied the plant and started using its infusion to treat people suffering from nervous disorders.

Basically, bird’s foot trefoil flowers have sedative, cardiotonic and antispasmodic qualities. In Sannio region, Italy, infusions from bird’s foot trefoil were used to calm anxiety and rejuvenate exhausted people.

While the discovery of bird’s foot trefoil medicinal properties was purely accidental, today, the plant’s healing qualities are neither accidental nor in doubt.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Heal-all, botanically known as prunella vulgaris

Heal-all: A Potential Cure For HIV?

October 6, 2019

Heal-all, self-heal, woundwort, botanically known as prunella vulgaris is a flowering herb native to Britain but now grows in most parts of the world. The plant thrives in open spaces and among short grass on waste ground.

The plant brings forth closely-knit purple flower heads from June to September. Since the herb grows close to the ground, its flowers are often spread over a wide area forming a beautiful carpet. The blossoms are arranged around spikes and rarely open at the same time.

While all parts of woundwort have been used for generations as a medicinal plant, its leaves and flowers are usually the parts used in supplements and for medicinal purposes. The plant was identified as an herbal remedy by Dioscorides, the renowned Greek physician who recommended it for treating tonsils and throat inflammations.

Today, scientists are busy exploring the possibilities of woundwort alleviating some of the most troublesome infections in the world. Studies have shown that self-heal holds the potential of treating HIV. According to these studies, the plant contains compounds that are active against viral infections, especially HIV. A particular study focused on a sulfated polysaccharide known as prunellin and found that this naturally-occurring compound in prunella vulgaris inhibited HIV-1 reproduction in-vitro. It was also shown to stop transmission of the virus in cells without causing adverse effects.

In addition, the plant is known as the following health benefits:

Management of diabetes
Prunella vulgaris is known to contain compounds that help in managing diabetes. According to studies conducted using rodents, researchers found that the plant contains chemicals with the ability to inhibit enzymes that metabolize carbohydrates in the body. This leads to a reduction of blood sugar levels and better control of diabetes.

Possible treatment of herpes
Prunella vulgaris has been cited as a potential treatment of herpes simplex virus. This viral condition is characterized by contagious blisters around the genitals or mouth. According to studies, the plant contains compounds that block the reproduction of HSV cells, which effectively stops the development of the condition.

Apart from blocking the reproduction of the HSV virus, heal-all is also effective in fighting against herpes by activating cells in the immune system such as macrophages which assist your body to fight against the infection.

Anticancer
Heal-all shows a lot of potential in inducing the death of cancer cells. According to studies conducted in test tubes, the plant contains rosmarini acid, caffeic acid and other chemicals which act as antioxidants and help in protecting against cell damage caused by reactive substances known as free radicals. These molecules are linked to cancer development.

One specific study in human liver cancer cells showed that heal-all inhibited the proliferation of cancer by stopping the production of enzymes that promote the growth of cancer cells.

Though not a very popular herb, this is one of the few plants that hold a lot of promise in alleviating many diseases and conditions plaguing humanity.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Corn Buttercup: An Acrid Herbal Remedy

October 5, 2019

Ranunculus arvensis, commonly known as corn buttercup, blister flower, devil-on-all-sides or crowfoot is a perennial, flowering plant belonging to the buttercup family.

The plant is thought to be native to Greenland and Alaska but has been naturalized in many parts of the world. This ability to spread and adapt to new environments have seen it considered an invasive weed in some regions.

Crowfoot thrives in meadows, wastelands, and lawns. It produces shiny, beautiful, golden yellow blossoms with five petals which make it an attractive addition in lawns and flower gardens. Just like other members of the buttercup family, crowfoot flowers symbolize humility and neatness. A bouquet of these flowers in your home brings in positive energy, joy, and sunshine due to their bright, yellow color.

Blister flower leaves grow on long petioles and are divided into three lobes. Its stem leaves are normally smaller compared to basal leaves and are arranged in an alternating pattern along the stem. The flowers are produced from April to July on stalks at the tip of the stems.

[Disclaimer: Ranunculus acris is known to have an acrid juice that can cause blistering when it comes into contact with the skin. In addition, the Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Crowfoot is rarely nibbled on by animals because of its acrid scent. The plant is also known to contain protoanemonin, a toxin that irritates the mouth and has the potential to cause ulcerations in the mouth. This explains the name “blister flower” which is derived from the blisters that occur in the gastrointestinal tract when cattle eat the plant.

In spite of its acrid smell, all parts of the plant are known to have antispasmodic, rubefacient and diaphoretic properties. Native Americans used to smash the flowers and leaves to make a poultice which they sniffed to treat headaches. They also applied the poultice to treat boils, chest pains, and abscesses.

Other health benefits of corn buttercup include:

Helps to alleviate shingles
Corn buttercup is known to be a great remedy for shingles, commonly known as herpes zoster. The topical application of the plant’s poultice manages the outbreak of blisters and reduce the itchiness and pain associated with the condition.

Good for your joints
If your joints are distressed by rheumatism and gout, you may want to consider turning to crowfoot for relief. When extracts from the plant are applied to the aching joints, they help in alleviating the pain and symptoms associated with these conditions.

Treats fibromyalgia
Corn buttercup is great for easing the pain, spasms, and stiffness associated with fibromyalgia, also known as fibrositis.

While corn buttercup is still considered a weed, its many health benefits and beautiful flowers make it a handy plant to have in your backyard.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Wild Garlic: Can You Eat All Of It?

September 29, 2019

Allium vineale, commonly known as wild garlic, crow garlic, and field garlic, is a pungent-smelling flowering plant thought to have originated from the Mediterranean region. Though commonly known as garlic, its appearance and flavor are closer to an onion compared to garlic.

Allium vineale prefers damp woodlands, ditches, and marshlands. You are likely to see it growing in clumps but in some instances may occur as an individual plant. Clumps normally occur in lawns where their foliage resembles grass but on closer examination, they appear darker. Since it tends to grow faster compared to grass, you are likely to notice patches in your lawn with taller foliage compared to the rest of the lawn. To find out if the taller patches consist of field garlic, pick a stem. If it smells like an onion, then it is wild garlic.

[Disclaimer: While it is easy to identify wild garlic due to its pungent smell, there have been cases of people mistaking poisonous herbs such as lily of the valley for the garlic. To ensure your safety, do due diligence and avoid tasting any plant you are unsure of.]

Wild garlic produces beautiful flowers with pink, green, white or purple petals. The blossoms normally appear during summer and are not easily noticeable unless you are looking for them as the flowerheads are quickly replaced by bulbils. Wild garlic flowers have both male and female organs and are pollinated by insects.

All parts of wild garlic (leaves, flowers, stem, and bulb) are edible. The leaves are great when cooked or raw. They enhance bland dishes such as cottage cheese or cream. In addition, the foliage is a great substitute for basil in pesto. If you intend to eat wild garlic later, cook the herb for 40 seconds, plunge into iced water and store in a refrigerator to retain its flavor and green color.

The whole plant can be chopped and added to mashed potatoes, served with various meats including lamb and beef. It is also delicious when tossed in salads as it brings a garlicky punch to the dish. Since cooking tends to degrade crow garlic’s flavor, make a habit of adding it towards the end of your cooking to preserve.

Wild garlic flowers can be added to salads or used for garnishing. In both instances, they make dishes sing. The herb shrinks a lot when cooked, so have enough of it at hand. In addition, since the pungent smell of wild garlic can be overpowering, consider mixing it with lettuce to take the edge off the herb and achieve a balanced flavor.

Ultimately, there are many ways you can eat wild garlic. Whether you choose to chop it up into a salad, blanch it or nibble on it raw, just make sure you get the most of this herb.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

How To Heal Yourself With Wild Garlic

September 26, 2019

Wild garlic, also known as field garlic, crow garlic and botanically referred to as allium vineale, is a grass-like flowering plant, closely related to onions more than garlic. It is native to Europe, North-western Africa and the western part of Asia. The plant was probably introduced to North America as an alternative to onions and garlic but soon escaped into the wild and is now considered a weed in some states.

The plant is highly tolerant and can thrive in the face of drastic weather changes. It can also grow in poorly-structured soils where most plants would not survive which explains why it is considered an invasive weed.

Wild garlic has smooth, erect, slender and rounded stems. Its basal leaves emerge from the bulb while stem leaves grow around the lower half of the stem and have a grass-like blade.

The plant flowers from June to July, bringing forth pretty flowers or aerial bulblets in dense spherical clusters perched at the top of the stems. The flowers are purple, pink, white or green and have six tiny petals. In some instances, the plant produces bulblets instead of flowers which emerge as tiny, teardrop-shaped bulblets with green leaves resembling miniature tails.

Wild garlic is a highly sought out culinary herb and can be easily found by foraging or buying from the farmers’ market. Apart from its culinary use, wild garlic has medicinal qualities. Actually, the whole herb contains carminative, diuretic, hypotensive, antiasthmatic, carthatic and stimulative properties. It has sufficient levels of folic acid, thiamin, lutein, niacin, riboflavin, and pyridoxine.

Just like other members of this species, wild garlic contains many sulfur compounds including allicin, a light yellow fluid that gives all members of amaryllis family the pungent smell. When eaten regularly, they help in managing blood cholesterol and tonify the circulatory and digestive system.

Good for your brain and heart
When consumed raw or cooked, wild garlic releases nitric oxide which reduces stiffness in the blood vessels and helps in managing blood pressure. It is ideal for preventing the formation of clots in blood vessels which is critical for reducing the risk of cardiovascular conditions including stroke.

Bone health
Wild garlic has high levels of vitamin K, an important component in bone formation. In addition, vitamin K is known to reduce neural damage in the brain which is important in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

In spite of its invasive nature and pungent smell, wild garlic is packed with nutrients and medicinal compounds that are good for the optimal functioning of your body.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Cow Parsley: Edible and Tasty, But be Sure What You’re Eating

September 25, 2019

Anthriscus sylvestris, commonly known as cow parsley or wild chervil is a perennial flowering plant whose white, umbrella-shaped flowers you are likely to see along roadsides during springtime.

[Disclaimer: Cow parsley can be easily mistaken for several poisonous herbs including fool’s parsley, giant hogweed, and poison hemlock. For your safety, always do due diligence before harvesting and tasting any wild plant you come across. Harvesting and eating the wrong plant can be fatal.]

The plant was introduced to North America as a vegetable and for ornamental purposes. Some people claim that the plant was introduced to the US in a wildflower mixup. However, just like many non-native plants, it quickly adapted to the new environment and soon became an invasive species.

Cow parsley is commonly found in disturbed places, pastures, and fields. It spreads by seed and grows in moist soils under a wide variety of conditions. This is what makes it easy for the plant to spread aggressively, outgrow and choke other plants including hay.

Cow parsley looks similar to other plants in the parsley or carrot family. The upright, leafy herb produces small white flowers in flower stalks from April to May. The leaves, stems, flowers, and seeds of cow parsley are edible. They can be eaten raw or cooked. These aerial parts have a stronger taste compared to garden chervil and are similar to carrot leaves. If you are aiming for a milder taste, harvest the leaves when they are young. These can be tossed in soups, sauces or used in salads.

Just like its garden relative, wild chervil contains essential oils and bitter compounds, carotene and glycosides. It also contains sufficient levels of magnesium, vitamin C and iron which make it a great vegetable to include in your diet. Here is a simple way of eating wild chervil.

Pickled cow parsley

Ingredients
A bunch of cow parsley stems, complete with leaves and flowers
1/2liter of cider vinegar
5 teaspoons of raw honey
1/2 teaspoon of ground celery seed
1 teaspoon of turmeric
1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
1 teaspoon of crushed cloves

Process: Wash the cow parsley stems, leaves and flowers, and chop finely. Put them in a medium-sized pan and allow to boil for about 2 minutes, remove from heat and drain.

In a different pan, pour raw honey, cloves, celery seeds, turmeric, mustard seeds, and vinegar. Boil for approximately 1 minute and remove from heat.

Pour cow parsley stems, leaves and flowers into clean, sterilized glass jars but leave enough room for the spiced vinegar. Fill the remaining part of each jar with the spiced vinegar and seal tightly with a fitting lead.

Allow the mixture to steep for about 8-10 weeks before eating.

Since cow parsley can be eaten raw or cooked, it is up to you to choose whichever way you want to enjoy this wild but nutritive delicacy.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Dog Rose: An Old Medicinal Herb With New Possibilities

September 20, 2019

Rosa canina, commonly known as dog rose, is a deciduous, climbing, wild rose native to western Asia, Europe, and northwest Africa. The plant’s English name is derived from its hooked prickles which look similar to a dog’s canines. Some schools of thought hold that the plant got the name from its ancient use in treating rabies.

Dog rose can thrive in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soils and is a common sight in hedges and woodlands.

Rosa canina produces delicate, beautiful, pink and white flowers borne singularly or in tiny clusters from mid-spring to late summer. Each flower has five petals with five sepals, which later give way to fruits commonly known as hips.

Just like other members of the rose family, dog rose has been used for centuries for both medicinal and culinary purposes. While roses are now cultivated mostly for ornamental purposes, herbal enthusiasts still harvest some rose flowers for medicinal uses.

Since ancient times, rose petals were known to have astringent properties. This explains why dog rose petals were included in the British pharmacopeia as astringent for years until the 1930s when they fell out of favor. Apart from having astringent qualities, the flowers and hips of these plants are known to possess diuretic, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Dog rose is high in vitamin C and also contain sufficient levels of other important nutrients such as tannins, carotenoids, essential oils, pectin, amino acids, and fatty acids. Vitamin C and flavonoids are normally combined in nature. This is how the human body interacts with vitamin C when eating flowers and fruits containing these nutrients. Vitamin C is critical for synthesizing collagen. It is an important protein that assists in connecting tissues in the body.

Carotenoids in dog rose such as lycopene, lutein and beta-carotene are closely linked with antioxidant activities including the ordinary pre-arranged death of body cells. They also help in preventing cell proliferation, management of free radicals and prevention of prostate cancer in men. Lycopene, one of the naturally occurring carotenoids in dog rose is known to support heart health, treat asthma, and prevent the development of cataracts.

Infusions from the dog rose flowers are used to treat heartburn, stomach pain, and flatulence. To deal with any of these problems, take a cup of the rosa canina blossom infusion after every meal until the problem is resolved.

Dried flowers of the dog rose plant are used for making eyewashes and compresses for tired or inflamed eyes. To make this remedy, toss 40g of dried dog rose flowers into a small saucepan with boiling water. Allow the flowers to soak in the water briefly, strain and allow the soaked blossoms to cool down sufficiently before applying the flowery compress to the affected area.

A 2016 study published in the US National Library of Medicine and National Institute of Health journal showed that dog rose holds a lot of potential in treating bacterial infections caused by E. coli, staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. While more research needs to be conducted in this area, initial investigations showed that extracts from this plant are highly effective against the bacteria mentioned above compared to standard drugs such as ampicillin and streptomycin.

While dog rose fell out of favor as a medicinal herb more than a century ago, there are possibilities that this wild flower might hold new promises for modern medicine.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

There are many lotus flower benefits for your health

The Lotus Flowering Plant: More Than Meets the Eye – It Also Has Health Benefits

September 16, 2019

The lotus plant, botanically known as nelumbo nucifera or nelumbo lutea and commonly known as Asian lotus and Indian lotus, belongs to the nelumbonaceae family. It is native to southern Asia and is India’s national flower. Lotus, a perennial, aquatic plant grows from a tuberous root-stock lying in the mud at the bottom of ponds and lakes. The plant has a special meaning to Buddhists, symbolizing enlightenment and purity due to its ability to bring forth beautiful flowers from dirty, smelly mud.

Though lotus plants are native to Asia, they are easy to propagate in most backyard ponds. In the absence of a pond, these flowering plants can be planted in a large water bowl on a balcony as long as they get the mandatory 6 hours of sunshine.

Lotus plants are attention grabbers due to their exotic flowers that resemble peonies. The flowers come out in yellow, white and light pink hues which look beautiful against the large blue-green leaves. They look magnificent in a pond, on the balcony or in floral arrangements.

The lotus plant is often mistaken for a water lily, however, water lilies belong to a different family of plants. In addition, though both plants are aquatic, the leaves and blossoms of the lotus extend above the water surface while the water lily floats on the water surface.

The sacred lotus has been used in Orient medicine for more than 1500 years. All parts of the plant – leaves, stems, flowers, and tubers have medicinal properties. It is high in phenolics and can be used to manage depression and diabetes. In addition, it has hypotensive, stomachic, tonic, styptic and resolvent properties.

Lotus flower benefits for your health include:

Skin and hair care
Nelumbo nucifera and nelumbo lutea are rich in antioxidants which make them an ideal skin conditioner. In addition, lotus flowers have properties which make them ideal for hydrating and moisturizing the skin. These assist in boosting skin elasticity and enhancing skin complexion thus erasing blemishes, fine lines and reducing wrinkles.

Apart from being an effective skin conditioner, the lotus is also good for your hair. It helps to strengthen, increase the volume and enhance the elasticity of your hair which prevents breakages while making your hair shiny and healthier. In addition, essential oils derived from the lotus plant stimulate melanin in gray hair thus effectively stalling premature graying of the hair.

The unique characteristics and capabilities of the lotus flowering plant have earned it a special place in the world. This plant is not only highly regarded in major religions, but also esteemed in many cultures for its beauty, purity and medicinal purposes.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Daffodil Flowers: Offering a Cure for Cancer?

September 12, 2019

Daffodil, botanically known as narcissus pseudonarcissus, is a perennial, spring-flowering herb commonly found growing wild in grasslands, parks, and gardens in temperate areas. It does well in areas with full sunlight though it also thrives in partial shade.

Daffodils symbolize hope, rebirth and new beginnings. As cut flowers, the yellow or white blossoms are offered to indicate good fortune and happiness. However, not many people know that these flowers possess medicinal capabilities.

[Disclaimer:[Note: The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician. Studies have also pointed to the dangerous side effects resulting from unmonitored usage of daffodils. Ingesting some parts of daffodil such as the stem is known to cause complications such as rashes, shivering, and could lead to fainting. In addition, use of daffodil is known to cause extreme reactions including brain disorders or lung collapse]

Daffodils might be a miracle cure for cancer
Daffodils could be the missing link scientists have been seeking to unlock a cure for cancer. While this may sound like a far-fetched claim, studies from RNA Molecular Biology Laboratory shows that there is a link between extracts from daffodil flowers and cancer. Researchers have managed to extract a natural anti-cancer compound known as haemanthamine from amaryllidaceae narcissus, a daffodil variety native to Europe. Scientists noted that haemanthamine blocks the production of a specific protein which is critical for the growth of cancer cells.

According to the study published in the Cell Press, a scientific journal, cancer cells are highly sensitive to a reduction in protein synthesis. Haemanthamine achieves this by binding the ribosome, a protein builder in cells which help in the synthesizing process.

This compound is just one of the many therapeutic compounds of natural origin. Others in this category include quinine (the anti-malaria agent), morphine (an analgesic) and ephedrine (anti-asthmatic agent). All these are alkaloids derived from plants and used in the medical field.

The study on haemanthamine was the first to investigate the effects of the daffodil flower, which curiously, is the symbol of cancer charities. Previous studies concentrated on galantamine, a compound found in bulbs and leaves of the daffodil plant for use in treating Alzheimer’s disease in the early stages.

Daffodil’s yellow flower has been used in many countries including the US as the rallying symbol for pooling resources in the fight against cancer under the name ‘Daffodil Day’. The day represents hope in the language of flowers as people come together to lend a hand in search of a cure for cancer.

Ultimately, daffodil flowers seem to hold the promise of solving the cancer puzzle, however, there is a need for more research to test and understand the full effects of daffodil alkaloids. Currently, researchers are in a race to identify the most promising chemical combination which can be developed to lead in the fight against cancer.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Catnip: Good For Felines And Humans Too

September 11, 2019

Catnip, botanically known as Nepeta cataria is a perennial herb in the labiatae or mint family. It is native to Europe but was introduced to other parts of the world including North America by European settlers. This hardy and upright plant with sturdy stems has a minty odor in keeping with plants in the mint family.

Catnip has furry, silver-green leaves. The leaves are heart or oblong-shaped with scalloped edges. Catnip brings forth flowers from July to October featuring white or pale lavender-like blossoms with purple spots. The flowers are arranged in clusters of dense whorls.

The plant derives its name from how cats respond to the herb. Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound that makes cats go crazy. Apart from mesmerizing cats, the plant has been used for years in Europe to alleviate anxiety including calming irritable children.

Nepetalactone, the main active compound in catnip is an essential oil with stimulative and sedative capabilities. When a cat sniffs nepetalactone, they get high, but when they chew it, they get sedated. This explains the strange behavior exhibited by felines around this herb. Curiously, kittens are not affected by the stimulant until they attain sexual maturity. Typical feline’s (domestic cats, lions, tigers, and leopards) response to nepetalactone includes licking, sniffing, chewing, shaking the head and body rubbing. Apart from these characteristics, cats also jump, drool, get aggressive or exhibit hyperactivity.

Nepetalactone is similar to valepotriates found in plants with sedative properties such as valerian. These compounds promote sleep, improve mood, reduce anxiety and help people with frayed nerves to relax.

In European traditional medicine, catnip was first mentioned in the 11th-century herbal encyclopedia, De viribus herbarum. The herb’s flowering tops and leaves were highly esteemed for their ability to promote sleep and calm nervousness. In addition, catnip was used to alleviate digestion problems in children.

Catnip is known for inducing sweating which makes it ideal for treating colds and flu. Sweating is one of the fastest ways of getting rid of toxins from the body especially when dealing with flu or cold-induced fever. In most instances, insufficient sweating during feverish episodes is the only thing that keeps pathogens and toxins in the body. Once sweating is induced, the fever breaks.

Apart from being a great sedative and a herbal remedy for colds and flu, catnip is also good for relieving aching joints, gout, sprained muscles and hemorrhoids due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Ultimately, catnip is not just good for cats but also contains beneficial properties that alleviate human suffering.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Snappy, Hardy, Beautiful And Medicinal: Meet The Snapdragon

September 10, 2019

Snapdragons are native to the rocky regions of North Africa, Europe, and the US. The plant derives its name from the tiny flowers it bears which resemble small dragon heads. When squeezed at the back and released, their snout-like parts open and close, which also explain why they are fondly referred to as snapdragon flowers, dragon flowers or dog’s mouth.

The snapdragon genus, antirrhinum, is a Greek word meaning ‘unlike the nose’ or ‘opposite the nose’. Basically, your nasal perception is closely tied to your taste glands. But when you taste this sweet-smelling flower, you get the very opposite of what your smell glands informed your mind as the blossoms taste bitter or bland depending on where they were grown, unlike their sweet fragrance.

Snapdragons thrive in dry areas and on old concrete walls. These flowering plants are quite hardy and can survive in places with minimal moisture.

Dragon flowers come out in a wide variety of bright and fancy colors ranging from yellow to red which explains why they are cultivated for ornamental purposes. Normally, they bloom in the cool of the spring, fall, and winter. Apart from being showy flowers, snapdragons also have several health benefits which are easily harnessed by drying and turning them into poultices and decoctions.

These benefits include:

Relieving hemorrhoids
Snapdragon flowers have been used for years to treat and manage piles, also known as hemorrhoids. The herb is renowned for encouraging blood circulation and easing inflammation. This brings relief to the swollen and painful blood vessels in the anal area.

Treats abscesses and boils
Snapdragons have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties which make them ideal for treating abscesses and boils.

Detox
Snapdragon extracts consumed as an infusion, commonly known as tea, have diuretic properties. This means they can be used to get rid of toxins from the body. These diuretic properties are not only good for cleaning the blood but also come in handy for helping the liver function optimally.

Prevents and heals minor wounds and skin infections
In places where the snapdragon is native, the herb has been used in poultices for topical application on wounds, bruises and skin infections. This is because snapdragon has astringent and anti-inflammatory properties which not only promotes healing but also reduces pain in the affected areas.

It is rare to find flowering plants that are hardy and which can do well in dry areas, yet which are also beautiful and beneficial. But that is what sets apart dragon flowers from other flowering plants.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Lemon Verbena Medicinal Uses

September 3, 2019

Lemon verbena, also known as alosuysia triphylla or herb louisa is an undervalued, lemon-scented medicinal herb, native to Bolivia, Central America, and Peru. The herb was named after Maria Luisa, the Princess of Parma and was brought to Europe by the returning Spanish sailors between the 17th and 18th century.

This deciduous, woody shrub that blossoms in late summer, bringing out tiny, white and purple flowers that appear in late spring and summer. Its leaves, flowers, and stalks give off a fresh lemon scent hard to resist. These aerial parts are known to have medicinal compounds including sedative, antispasmodic, stomachic and febrifuge properties. Lemon verbena medical uses include:

Fighting inflammation
The shrub contains verbascoside which is ideal for fighting inflammation by boosting the production of tyrosine phosphate, this reduces the risk of developing inflammation.

The herb is also rich in polyphenols which act similarly to verbascosides to reduce inflammation by managing the effects of reactive oxidative stress, which reduces inflammation.

Mental health boost
Essential oils extracted from lemon verbena have been shown to be highly effective in managing anxiety and stress. If you had a tough day at work and your nerves are frayed, inhaling the lemon-scented oil helps to calm and settle your mind.

In addition, the compounds in this plant assist in balancing the hormones and soothe the mind. So, if you suffer from chronic stress, consider making it a part of your regimen.

Promotes digestion
A cup of lemon verbena leaves and blossoms infusion is recommended by nutritionists for people experiencing digestive problems. The infusion is ideal for treating gastric pain and intestinal spasms. In addition, consuming the infusion regularly wards off flatulence, nausea, stomach cramps and indigestion.

Great for decongestion
Lemon verbena has expectorant properties. Nutritionists recommend that people experiencing congestion in their airways should sip some warm lemon verbena tea to help unclog and get rid of mucus.

Boosts immune system
The body’s immune system is the first line of defense against invading pathogens. When your immunity is compromised, opportunistic infections have the perfect environment to develop and turn into full-blown health problems. Since lemon verbena is rich in antioxidants, incorporating it in your diet helps to boost the immune system and reduce the risks of developing infections.

Good for your skin
Lemon verbena’s essential oils are great for toning, moisturizing and rejuvenating your skin. Massaging your face with oil from this shrub regularly helps in nourishing the skin and increasing its elasticity which is ideal for combating premature aging, scars, and acne. In addition, the oil contains healing properties which are good for treating common skin conditions including eczema.

From the lemon verbena health benefits outlined above, it is clear that this little-known herb is great for alleviating many health problems. So, how about ordering it for your kitchen garden if you want to enjoy its lemon-tinged goodness?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Peonies health benefits: Peonies have many health benefits due to its levels of antioxidants

Peony: Bold, Beautiful And Medicinal

August 29, 2019

The peony, also known as paeony is a perennial flowering plant with a thick, knobby rootstock. It has a green, juicy stem and grows to about 3 feet high. Peonies have ternate or biternate leaves and bring forth purple-red, pink, off-white or red, large, solitary flowers that look similar to roses. Normally, peonies bloom from May to August. Among beneficial plants, it has the longest history of any flowering herb used for medicinal and aesthetic purposes.

Ancient records show that peonies are among the oldest of all cultivated flowers.
The flowers are big, bold, yet delicate and full of flavor. They are great for cut-flower arrangements and are Britain’s favorite flowers.

Peonies are fondly referred to as super flowers for their ability to awe people with their beauty while at the same time helping to ease various medical problems. Curiously, the flowers are named after the Greek god, Paen, who was the god of healing.

Peonies health benefits include:

Anti-inflammation
All peony species have high amounts of anti-inflammatory glucosides. Paeoniflorin is the major component largely responsible for the plant’s medicinal actions though other compounds probably play a role.

Peonies are known for their ability to heal inflammation problems. One particular variety known as paeonia lactiflora has been used in Chinese traditional medicine for years to treat muscle cramps, rheumatoid arthritis, dysmenorrhea, hepatitis, fever, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Peonies’ medical claims are no fairy tales. Recent studies seeking to look into the anti-inflammatory abilities of paeonia lactiflora discovered that it has compounds that restrain the production of a hormone known as prostaglandin E2, which is known to cause fever. Peonies are also known to assist cell interaction by inhibiting the increase of intracellular calcium ion concentration.

Hepatoprotective
Peonies are known to have hepatoprotective effects which are effective for reducing toxicity and bilirubin levels. As a result, peony extracts are used to boost liver health and treat viral hepatitis.

Immune boosting
Glucosides and paeoniflorin help in reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Cytokines are small proteins that regulate inflammatory and immunology responses. These are what are responsible for managing arthritis and other health chronic conditions. However, there are bad cytokines known as pro-inflammatory cytokines. These bad cytokines are responsible for causing conditions such as asthma and Crohn’s disease.

Brain health
Peony has neuroprotective and sedatives capabilities which have been shown to improve cognition, improve brain function and manage mood disorders including anxiety and depression. Science has not yet managed to give a clear explanation of how these compounds work to protect the brain. However, some schools of thought hold that peony’s glucosides inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO), an enzyme that inhibits certain neurotransmitters which are thought to contribute to the development of degenerative conditions.

Now, next time you catch a whiff of peonies in bloom and admire their beautiful blossoms, show some respect for this multi-purpose flowering plant which has withstood the test of time.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Alexanders: Food And Medicine Rolled Into One Plant

August 22, 2019

Smyrnium olusatrum, commonly known as Alexanders, horse parsley or alisanders is an edible flowering plant in the Smyrnium genus. This flowering plant thrives in uncultivated areas by the seaside, salt marshes, in hedgerows, woods, in lime soils and wastelands. Smyrnium, Alexander’s genus, derives its name from the Greek word smurna, meaning myrrh, probably because of its aromatic seeds. Basically, there are about 8 species in the genus. While some species are biennials, others are perennials.

Alexanders is native to the Mediterranean region, but it has become naturalized in other parts of the world. The plant was brought to Europe by Romans who fondly referred to it as ‘pot herb of Alexandria’.

The plant’s English name most likely refers to Alexander the Great, the ambitious general who founded Alexandria city in Egypt. Some schools of thought hold that the plant’s name is borrowed from the city it was brought from; Alexandria.

For years, Alexanders was grown as a vegetable and medicinal plant. With time, the plant was overtaken by celery as a vegetable. It is thought that celery replaced Alexanders because the former was gradually improved through selective cross-breeding of superior varieties. In spite of being considered inferior to celery, all parts of Alexanders are edible. Its flavor mildly resembles celery’s but has lingering bitter notes.

Alexanders flowers between April and June. It brings forth yellow-green blossoms arranged in umbels. The flowers are small with egg-like ovaries at the center and inconspicuous sepals. Its blossoms are hermaphrodites and frequented by insect pollinators.

The plant was known to Pliny the Elder who recommended its leaves and flowers for healing cuts and its root as a diuretic. According to Pliny, chewing the herb with some honey and aniseed in the morning freshens the breath.

Apart from its use in oral health, Alexanders was used extensively by ancient people to cure scurvy, a condition caused by lack of vitamin C. Scurvy results in swollen and bleeding gums which also tend to be weak. Sailors normally stocked enough Alexanders in their vessels as a remedy against scurvy during their voyages.

Alexander is known to have emmenagogue properties. Emmenagogue refers to compounds that stimulate the flow of blood to the pelvic region. In addition, the leaves and flowers are said to have antimicrobial properties. They are crushed and applied as poultice over cuts and bruises to hasten healing.

Though Alexanders has long been overtaken by celery as a culinary delight and its fame as a medicinal herb has waned, it is still a great flowering plant to have in your backyard.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Remarkable Feijoa Flower Medicinal Benefits

August 20, 2019

Feijoa, botanically known as acca sellowiana or pineapple guava is an evergreen shrub native to South America in the Myrtaceae family. These small trees are commercially cultivated in California for their sweet and aromatic fruits. In addition, some people grow them for ornamental purposes. Feijoas bring forth wide, white petal flowers with bold, red centers resembling fuchsia blossoms, which are the focus of this article as they have medicinal properties.

Feijoa flower medicinal benefits include:

Treating inflammatory bowel disease
Feijoa is great for treating inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. While ulcerative colitis affects the large intestines, Crohn’s disease affects any part of the digestive system. Studies show that feijoa extracts are capable of managing the symptoms and effects of inflammatory bowel disease which make this plant a handy remedy against the condition.

Anti-cancer
Feijoa extracts have been shown to have anti-cancer capabilities on hematological cancer cells. Studies show that these extracts do not have toxic effects on normal myeloid progenitors. This suggests that feijoa has compounds that specifically target tumors without causing adverse effects on normal cells. When feijoa extracts were purified, fractionalized and analyzed, flavone was identified as the active compound with anti-cancer properties.

Anti-bacterial
When extracts from feijoa flowers and fruits were tested against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria using broth dilution test on blood leukocytes of humans, it was discovered that extracts from this shrub held the potential of inhibiting the growth of bacteria.

Immune boosting
Feijoa has anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties. It also contains critical vitamins and minerals which make it a great immunity booster. Since acca sellowiana has high vitamin C concentrations, it helps in stimulating the production of white blood cells which are the first line of defense for the body against internal and external threats.

Anti-depressant
Studies show that feijoa has anti-depressive properties. The study, conducted on animal subjects, indicated that extracts from the plant have high folate content which is ideal for treating depression. Folate deficiency is closely linked to high chances of developing depression as folate assists in neutralizing a metabolite known as homocysteine.

Heart health
Vitamin C, a common component in feijoa, is a water-soluble antioxidant commonly known as ascorbic acid. Antioxidants are great for getting rid of free radicals in the blood which reduces the effects of oxidative stress from the lining of arteries. This prevents the build-up of plaque which can lead to heart problems.

Just like most people, you probably thought feijoas are only great for their sweet guavas or for ornamental purposes, but now you know that their flowers can be used for medicinal purposes too.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Soapwort: A Soapy Affair?

August 19, 2019

Soapwort, botanically known as saponaria officinalis, is a herbaceous, perennial, flowering plant that is easy to grow and is rarely fussy of soils. It is a hardy plant and withstands diseases and harsh weather quite well. As a result, it proliferates aggressively and can form dense colonies crowding out other plants.

The plant was initially brought to the US from Europe for horticultural uses but due to its aggressive nature, it escaped from gardens, which explains why the herb is now found growing in the wild along stream banks, gravel bars and along roadsides.

Soapwort is a member of the pink family and easy to identify due to its dense foliage and large, pink blossoms. One of the distinctive ways of identifying the plant is by looking out for the pair of claws at the base of the flower petals.

Soapwort gots its name from the soap-like characteristics of the juice in its flower stalks. The juice is known to have high saponin content which, when mixed with water, produces a soapy lather that laundry women in ancient civilizations used to wash clothes. To date, the plant is known to be one of the best natural sources of saponins in the world.

Ancient records show that soapwort has been used as a cleaning agent for more than 12,000 years, meaning that its use dates as far back as the Stone Age. During this period, people would simply crush the aerial parts of the plant growing along stream banks and use the poultice as a washing agent.

When soapwort roots, stalks, leaves and flowers are crushed and mixed with water, they make a herbal bath additive. If you allow the mixture to steep in hot water, you get an enhanced bath additive which gives bath water a soapy feel that gives your skin a smooth, clean feel. Apart from being used for washing and bathing, the herb is also great for conditioning the hair and skin.

Today, soapwort’s leaves, roots, and flowers are still used to make herbal soaps and provide foam for beverages such as the Turkish lokum. Apart from the above purposes, the plant is used as a herbal remedy for various conditions including respiratory conditions such as coughs, congestion, and bronchitis. While its mechanism of action is not yet known, it is held that the herb has mucolytic compounds. These are compounds that help in thinning mucus, which make it easier to cough up and eliminate from the body.

Unlike most herbs that were highly esteemed in ancient days for culinary or herbal uses but waned with the advent of new rivals, soapwort has never lost ground as it is still a great source of saponins.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Edible Peony Flowers – How to Eat Them!

August 16, 2019

Peonies were a popular hit during the medieval time especially when they were in season. While the seeds and roots are edible, it is the flowers that are commonly used in the culinary world as they taste great and impart pink hues to foods and beverages.

The petals can be tossed into salads or sprinkled on top of a dessert. In some parts of the world, the petals are blanched, sweetened and served with tea. One of our favorite ways of using peony petals to eat is in ice cream!

Peony ice cream with a strawberry honey swirl (See the inspiration for this recipe here)

Ingredients
¾ cup of sugar
12 fully-opened peony blossoms
1 ½ cups whole milk
3 cups of strawberries
4 eggs
2 cups of heavy cream
Honey (to taste)

Process: Pluck the petals from 6 of the peony flowers. Wash them thoroughly to get rid of bugs and dirt.

In a saucepan set over medium heat, add the cream, whole milk, and peony petals. Stir the mixture until it is about to boil and turn off the heat. Allow the mixture to steep for 30 minutes and strain the blossoms. Repeat the process with the remaining flowers using the same cream to double-infuse the cream and give the mixture a strong floral flavor.

Next, whisk the eggs in a bowl until they are light. Once they are done, add the sugar bit by bit until it is fully dissolved in the mixture.

Pour a cup of the strained cream into the egg mixture as you whisk, then, pour the mixture into a saucepan with the rest of the cream. Cook the cream over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture forms a thin layer at the back of the spoon.

Remove the mixture from heat, pour it into a container and set it in a refrigerator until it completely cools down.

Now, make a strawberry syrup by placing the berries into a saucepan over low heat while stirring and squashing them with a spoon until they turn into a mushy mess. Add in the honey as desired, allow to simmer and remove from heat. Strain and store it in the refrigerator until it has completely cooled down.

12 or 24 hours later, freeze the ice cream in the ice maker until it is soft-serve texture, turn off the ice cream maker and put a third of the ice cream into a container. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of the syrup over the ice cream in the container. Put another layer of a third of the ice cream into the container and repeat the process of sprinkling the syrup. Finally, put the remaining ice cream on top of the mixture in the container. Take a spoon or knife and churn the syrup into the mixture lightly.

Once sufficiently agitated, place the mixture into the freezer to solidify. Enjoy the peony ice cream with strawberry at your pleasure.

Peonies are highly versatile flowers and can be included in many dishes. When it comes to peony recipes, your creativity is the limit.

Comments: Comments Off Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Dame’s Rocket: An Invasive, Deceitful But Beneficial Flowering Plant

August 15, 2019

Dame’s rocket or hesperis matronalis is an annual, biennial and at times a perennial, erect plant that reaches up to 4 feet tall and 18 inches wide. It is a member of the Brassicaceae or Cruciferae family which makes it a close relative of savoy cabbage, mustard, kale, broccoli, and red cabbage. Dame’s rocket is a native of Italy but is now found in many parts of Russia, Asia, the Mediterranean region and the US.

This member of the mustard family produces a cluster of hairy, alternate leaves during the first year in early spring or late summer by sending up branched, spiky stalks with 4-petaled, loose, white or lavender-pink flowers. At a glance, most people mistake it for phlox. However, unlike the dame, phlox has 5-petaled flowers.

Dame’s rocket is normally cultivated for its showy, long-lasting flowers and their sweet fragrance. In addition, the plant requires minimal care and is considered a trouble-free herb. Its many names, including mother-of-the-evening, damask violet, sweet rocket, rogue’s gillyflower, and vesper flower, allude to its sweet scent and the many centuries of cultivation in gardens. In addition, these names are a clear indicator of the high regard in which it has been held.

This flowering plant arrived in America as a garden flower and was widely cultivated before it escaped to grow in the wild in fields, along roadsides and waste areas. Though it is now considered a wildflower, some people regard it as an invasive weed due to its ability to self-seed and propagate.

Currently, some states such as Wisconsin, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Colorado have banned damask violet due to its invasive nature. Four centuries ago, banning this flowering plant would probably have led to statewide demonstrations as the worth of this plant was not in question. At that time, dame’s rocket was the greatest addition to every Baroque garden and every high society family with a reputation to protect had one. A Baroque garden was for show and members of the high society gathered there to admire the garden’s design. The garden was also a subtle form of expressing the owner’s power and affluence.

Dame’s rocket flowers are said to symbolize deceit as they have a nice fragrance in the evening but are scentless during the day. The flowers are known to have properties that stimulate glands. In addition, they have aphrodisiac capabilities. Apart from stimulating glands and having aphrodisiac capabilities, the flowers and leaves of the plant have sudorific and diuretic properties. Since these parts of the flower have high vitamin C content, they are also used to treat scurvy while the essential oil derived from dame’s rocket is used in aromatherapy.

Today, dame’s rocket is no longer sough-after unlike several centuries ago and Baroque gardens are no longer fashionable. However, its flowers are still deceptive as ever and the plant’s medicinal properties are still intact.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Top Three Health Benefits Of Milk Thistle

August 12, 2019

Milk thistle is a flowering, herbaceous plant belonging to the daisy family. It features dense and prickly flower heads with reddish-purple flowers. The plant thrives in Mediterranean countries and has been naturalized in South and North America, Central Europe, and Southern Australia.

Note: The Right Flowers is not a medical site. Knowledge of and information about the therapeutic benefits and applications of flowers, while known through the ages, does not constitute medical advice. If you are having health issues, you should consult with a physician.]

Milk thistle has a long history as a natural remedy used to treat a wide range of health conditions including liver problems, type 2 diabetes, and cholesterol-related problems. Basically, the main active ingredient in this plant is silymarin.

During the first century, Pliny the Elder reported that the plant was commonly used to support liver health. Nicholas Culpeper, the English herbalist also claimed that it was effective for supporting normal liver functioning. At the turn of the 20th century, Eclectic physicians often used it to maintain optimal functioning of the liver.

So, what is milk thistle good for?

Supports liver health
Milk thistle is known for treating liver problems. A 2016 study showed that extracts from the plant alleviated liver damage in mice. Further research is needed to confirm whether milk thistle is beneficial to human liver just as it is good in mice.

During the 2016 study, researchers found that silymarin, the active ingredient acts, has antioxidant properties and is ideal for lowering the production of free radicals. Scientists suggest that it probably works by creating a detoxifying effect, which explains why milk thistle alleviates liver problems.

Preventing dementia
Milk thistle has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds which are ideal for neuroprotection as a person ages. This explains why the plant has been used for more than 2,000 years to mitigate the effects of neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases which cause a decline in mental ability.

In animal and test-tube studies, silymarin seems to have protective effects against oxidative damage to brain cells which stalls mental decline. In addition, studies indicate that milk thistle is able to reduce the concentration of amyloid plaques in the brains of animals suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Amyloid plaques are clusters of sticky amyloid proteins that accumulate between nerve cells due to aging and affect the ability of cells to interact with each other.

Enhances cancer treatment
Emerging evidence seems to suggest that the antioxidant effects of silymarin have anticancer properties. These are likely to be helpful to people undergoing cancer therapy which tends to have nasty after-effects. In addition, these properties hold the promise of enhancing chemotherapy, making it more effective against cancers.

Milk thistle seems to hold a lot of potential as a complementary remedy for various conditions including liver problems, diabetes, and cancer. However, more research is required to define and understand the full clinical effects of this beneficial herb.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

How To Use Milk Thistle Flowers In Your Kitchen

August 6, 2019

Silybum marianum, commonly known as milk thistle, Mary thistle, and holy thistle is a flowering plant in the daisy family. The plant derives its name from the milky sap it produces when the leaves are broken. It is native to the Mediterranean region but is now naturalized around the world. Milk thistle is edible and has been used as food for more than 2,000 years. Basically, all parts of the milk thistle have been used as food with no substantial reports of toxicity for centuries. Apart from being used as food, the plant is also known for its medicinal capabilities as it has tonic properties.

While milk thistle is considered an invasive weed in some regions, years ago, this flowering plant was cultivated as a culinary delight in Europe. Its leaves, flowers, seeds, stalks, and roots were cooked or used to spice up salads. Milk thistle seeds are the most beneficial parts of the plant because they have a high concentration of silymarin compounds, however, this article will concentrate on milk thistle blossoms. These are normally boiled or steamed as lettuce and are great artichoke substitutes.

Milk thistle flowers are light purple in color. In the northern hemisphere, the plants bloom from June to August and from December to February in the southern hemisphere. Here is how to eat milk thistle flowers:

Milk thistle soup

6 thistle flowers
2 onions-chopped
½ pounds of meat
½ pound of fish
2 cups of peeled chopped potatoes
½ cup chopped cattail stems or celery stalks
Salt to taste

Process: Start by chopping and boiling the flowers over medium heat until the water has absorbed most of the juice from the blossoms. As the mixture boils, add water until you have about 2 quarts of the milk thistle stock.

Add the onions, meat, fish and potatoes, plus the cattail stems or celery. Bring the mixture to a boil, season with salt as desired and simmer for about 2 hours.

Taste the soup before removing from heat and add salt if desired. Serve on its own or with rice.

Milk thistle tea or infusion

Ingredients
½ cup of milk thistle flowers
2 cups of water
1 teaspoon of organic honey (optional)

Process: Boil water in a saucepan and remove from heat. Toss in the flowers and allow to steep for about 5 minutes. Strain to get rid of the flowers and add honey for extra flavor as desired. Enjoy!

Milk thistle flowers have been a delicacy for more than 2,000 years and there is no sign of this flowering plant slowing down in its culinary drive. So, if you cannot grow these flowering plants in your kitchen garden, consider ordering some from a specialty store, Amazon or farmer’s market.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Red Sorrel Flowering Plant: What Is It Good For?

August 1, 2019

Rumex acetosella, commonly referred to as red sorrel, field sorrel or sheep’s sorrel and sour weed is a perennial flowering plant in the buckwheat or Polygonaceae family. It is native to the British Isles and Eurasia but has been naturalized in the US and many other parts of the world. Red sorrel thrives in a wide range of habitats and is commonly seen in grasslands, floodplains, and yellow pine forests. The plant flowers in March to November bringing forth reddish (female) and yellow-green (male) flowers in clusters of branched inflorensce at the tip of the stem. Red sorrel’s flowers have a typical droop and feature 3 petals and 3 sepals.

Red sorrel’s leaves and flowers have been used as natural remedies for generations. These parts of the plant contain anthraquinones including oxalates, vitamins, and emodin. In addition, they are rich in glycosides including quercetin-3d-galactoside and hyperoside. The presence of these compounds gives sheep’s sorrel depurative, diuretic, antiscorbutic and febrifuge properties.

Red sorrel’s health benefits include:

Eyecare
Red sorrel contains vitamin A, an important component in the fight against cataracts and macular degeneration. Beta carotene, a derivative of vitamin A, when combined with other antioxidants in the body helps in improving eye health and stalling sight problems closely related to age.

Boost immunity
Sheep sorrel has vitamin C content which is great for strengthening your immune system. Vitamin C fondly referred to as ascorbic acid, revitalizes the immune system and boosts the number of white blood cells in the body. By now, you know that white blood cells are the first line of defense the body calls upon when faced with foreign threats and pathogens. Vitamin C also comes in handy in the fight against scurvy and is said to have analgesic properties when consumed in sufficient quantities.

Diabetes and heart health
Since sorrel has oxalic acid, it is great for improving chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart-related problems. In addition, anthocyanin and organic compounds in the plant interact with the body to enhance health and functionality.

Skincare
Sorrel leaves and flowers are commonly used to treat skin conditions such as dry, flaky skin and ringworm infestation. The leaves and flowers can be chewed raw or dried, ground, mixed with water and applied topically at the site of the infection. These aerial parts of the plant are thought to derive their beneficial properties from the high concentration of Vitamin A and C in them.

Managing diabetes, treating skincare, boosting immunity and enhancing your eyesight are just a few of the fascinating health benefits associated with red sorrel. With all these benefits in mind, it is probably time to have this easy-to-propagate flowering plant in your backyard.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

The Lotus Flower: Yummy, Mythical And Beautiful

July 29, 2019

Ever read The Odyssey, Homer’s classical epic written around 10 BC? Then you are familiar with Odysseus’ struggle to return home after the Trojan War. In once instance, Odysseus’ ship was blown off-course to a strange land populated by people identified as lotus-eaters. The lotus-eaters gave Odysseus’ men some lotus flowers to eat and that was the beginning of a new challenge for the king as his men fell into a lotus-induced trance and no longer wanted to go back home.

According to Homer’s narrative, the lotus plant caused anyone who ate the flowers or seeds to forget who he was and his only interest was to eat more of the plant. The effects of the lotus plant were so powerful that Odysseus had to literally drag his crew back to the ship as they wept bitterly for being taken away from their new-found pastime.

Away from Homer’s narratives, the lotus plant, also known as the sacred lotus or yellow lotus, is an aquatic perennial plant that has been an important source of food since prehistoric times. It thrives in marshes, ponds, and lakes. The roots of the lotus plant grow horizontally underwater while the seeds grow above the surface of the water in large seed pods. Lotus flowers are not only magnificent but also edible. The blossoms have a mild, fresh taste and can be substituted for lettuce.

All parts of the lotus flowering plant – leaves, tuber, flowers, and stems- are edible. The plant has been used as a vegetable for flavoring dishes and can be eaten raw, salted, dried, boiled or baked. In addition, the lotus makes a wonderful accompaniment to other dishes. For this article, our focus is on the lotus flower.

Here is a lotus flower recipe to fire up your imagination:

Fried lotus flowers
6 tablespoons of lotus paste
24 lotus blossoms
3 tablespoons of lotus flour (available on Amazon)
2 cups of corn oil
4 egg whites

Process: Dry the petals and put a teaspoon of lotus paste on each of them, then fold over to cover the paste.

Mix egg whites and the lotus flour until they attain a thin, smooth consistency.
Heat the corn oil and dip petal sandwiches in the batter. Deep fry for 2-3 minutes, drain and serve while still warm.

Unless you are still stuck in Odyssey’s time when eating the lotus plant ushered people into a drug-induced utopia, you already know that the lotus flower does not stupefy its eaters. While this mild-tasting flower does not knock out the senses of its eaters, it definitely enhances the look and the taste of dishes.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Eating Magnolia Blossoms

July 28, 2019

Did you know that magnolia, the state flower of Louisiana and Mississippi, is edible? While these blossoms are considered southern flowers, magnolias are a common sight throughout the US. Blooms of these magnificent trees resemble butterflies that are ready to take to the skies, and give a free feeling to homes, gardens, and driveways.

Magnolia flowers taste just like they smell: fragrant and sweet. They pair well with roasted vegetables, toasted sesame seeds, burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and soy. The blossoms also go well with sugar snaps, carrots, celeriac, beets, and cucumber. Here are two magnolia flowers recipes:

Pickled magnolia flowers
Pick or order a bunch of fresh magnolia flowers
Separate the petals and stalks
Blanch in saltwater

Process: Shock in ice-cold water and drain.
Place the petals in a a sterile canning jar. In the meantime, make pickling solution by mixing 1 ½ cups of rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons of salt and 1 cup of sugar.

Bring the mixture to a boil and pour it into a pickling jar. Toss in the drained magnolia petals and you have pickled blossoms. You can add the pickled blossoms to tacos, sandwiches or salads.

Magnolia blossom cream cake
2 cups magnolia petals
2 teaspoons of baking powder
2 cups of cream
¾ cup of sugar
1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
Confectioners’ sugar
2 eggs

Process: Wash and rinse the magnolia blossoms before placing them on paper towels to dry. Chop the flowers into square pieces and put them into a heavy pan together with cream. Heat the cream gently, whisking occasionally to avoid scorching. When bubbles start to appear around the edges of the pan, turn down the flame and allow to simmer for 25 minutes.
Strain and throw away the flowers.

Preheat the oven to 350 F and grease a small Bundt pan. Put flour, sugar and baking powder into a mixing bowl and whisk to combine. Add 2/3 cup of the magnolia infusion, and eggs and whisk until the mixture attains uniform consistency.

Pour the mixture into the greased pan and bake until golden brown. To check if it is done insert a toothpick into the cake, if the toothpick comes out clean then it is done.

Remove the cake from the oven and allow to cool for about 15 minutes before turning it out on a plate.

As the cake cools, transfer the rest of the magnolia cream to a small bowl and add confectioners’ sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time as you whisk until you attain the desired consistency to make cake icing. The icing should be fluid enough to pour onto the warm cake but not too thin to slide off the cake.

Serve your magnolia flower cream cake warm or at room temperature for dessert or afternoon tea.

Now that you know magnolias are great delicacies, how about ordering some blossoms for dinner?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Magnificent, Stately And Beneficial:Magnolia Flower Medicinal Uses

July 26, 2019

Magnolia is a large tree, reaching about 80 feet in height with a diameter of 3-5 feet. Its family is known to be among the oldest trees in the world. These trees are so ancient that their blossoms do not have real sepals and petals. Instead, they have petal-like tepals. In addition, the flowers do not produce true nectar and are not pollinated by bees because magnolias predate bees, however, they attract pollinating beetles with fragrant, sugary secretions and fragrances.

Magnolias bloom in a rainbow of colors which are quite a sight to behold. While some species flower in the heat of summer, others blossom in late winter to announce the coming of the warm weather ahead. Their white, pink or creamy flowers – the state flower of Louisiana and Mississippi – have a heady fragrance that most southerners are familiar with.

Magnolia trees are not just quintessential and magnificent but their blossoms are known to have medicinal properties too. Ancient records show that magnolia flowers have been used in Chinese medicine since 100 AD. Currently, there are more than 200 patented drugs in China based on the magnolia flower.

Basically, magnolia flowers derive their medicinal capabilities from potent compounds including honokiol and magnolol. These flowers are great for the following:

Allergies
Volatile oils extracted from magnolia blossoms have the potential of preventing allergic reactions such as asthma by inhibiting the release of histamines.

Sinusitis and rhinitis
According to Phyllis A. Balch in the book titled Prescription for Nutritional Healing, magnolia flowers have been used in Chinese medicine for years to alleviate headache and rhinitis associated with sinusitis. Studies published in August 2009 in the Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine shows that magnolia lilifloral extracts have the ability to reduce eosinophil cells in the blood which is highly beneficial to children with allergic problems.

Skincare
According to Leung’s Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients, extracts from the magnolia flower have been used to reduce irritations caused by ingredients used to make cosmetics. They can also assist in getting rid of dark spots and whiten the skin.

Diabetes
An animal study published in October 2008 in the International Journal of Molecular Medicine indicates that magnolia blossom extracts have the ability to help in preventing diabetes caused by streptozotocin, a drug that was initially derived from the streptomyces achromogenes microorganism. The drug was used as an antibiotic until it was discovered to carry the potential of causing diabetes. Today, the drug is mostly used to treat pancreatic cancer.

You probably drive past these beautiful, stately, flowering trees without giving them much thought. But next time you encounter magnolias, you may need to consider appreciating not only their ornamental value but also their health benefits.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Flowers Generally

Elderflower Plant Benefits For Your Health

July 25, 2019

The elderflower is a deciduous shrub of the Adoxaceae family. It grows to 6 meters ( (nearly 20 feet) tall and has light grey bark during the initial stages of growth but gradually changes to a coarse grey later on. The leaves are 10-30 cm long(about 8-12 inches) and are arranged in opposite pairs, featuring 5-7 leaflets with a serrated margin. Elder shrubs bloom in late spring to mid-summer bringing forth aromatic, hermaphrodite flowers that are ivory white with 5 petals pollinated by flies.

For the purpose of this article, we shall concentrate on the European version of the elder plant (Sambucus nigra ) which is native to Europe and (Sambucus canadensis ) the North America version of nigra. The American elderflower plant thrives in the US and Canada in zones 3-8. You are likely to see it growing along lakes, streams, in ditches, fence rows and along roadsides.

The elder shrub derives its English name from the Anglo-Saxon word, Aeld meaning fire. According to ancient Celts, the shrub was not to be trifled with as it hosted a spirit who must not be angered. The folklore held that if the spirit was angered, she had the potential to strike the offender with lightning. Celts revered the plant so much that they had to seek its consent before cutting its branches. However, the branches once cut, could not be used for firewood or for woodwork, lest the offender incurred the wrath of the host.

Elderflowers open from the outside-in, so, if you are picking them, harvest the blossoms that are fully open in the center. You should also avoid picking the flowers when they are wet or after a storm because they normally turn dark when dried instead of retaining their creamy color.

Medicinal uses
According to ancient records from Dioscorides, Hippocrates and Pliny the Elder, the tree has longstanding herbal properties. In a 1644 book by Dr. Martin Blochwich titled The Anatomy of Elder, the doctor describes how the tree was used to treat 70 different diseases.

Elder tree blossoms are known to have anti-inflammatory effects, especially on the upper respiratory system. These make them ideal for treating common respiratory ailments including sinusitis, colds and flu. In addition, herbalists hold that infusions made from flowers of the elder plant are great for managing hay fever but only when the flowers are picked before pollen appears.

Elderflowers tinctures are commonly used to provide relief from excess mucus and congestion. The tinctures are also great for soothing sore throats, relieving headaches and making eyewash for inflamed eyes.

Today, you may not need to ask the elder shrub for permission before picking its flowers compared to ancient times, but you do need to hold this flowering plant in awe for its beneficial properties.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Cooking With Hop Flowers

July 24, 2019

By now you know hops are sought-after for imparting complex flavors to beers. But did you know that hops are also great for cooking with?

Hops may seem like an unusual ingredient in your kitchen, but at a basic level, they are similar to any other spice in your kitchen. All you need is to know how to use hops just like you use chives or salt to spice up dishes. Hops, when added judiciously and with specific techniques, enhance the flavor of a dish.

Basically, most parts of the hop plant are edible – the shoots, flowers, and leaves. However, for this article, the focus will be on the cone-shaped blossoms, commonly known as hops.

Essential oils and acids
Hops derive most of their flavor from the oils and acids produced by glands hidden under their petals. These compounds are normally present as a sticky, yellow excretion known as lupulin. Most of the time hop flavor depends on the combination of specific blends of acids and oils in its lupulin.

Alpha and beta acids
Lupulin has two types of acids: alpha and beta acids. Alpha acids carry the bulk of the bittering properties of hops which are critical when selecting hops for cooking. If you choose hops with a high concentration of alpha acids, you ruin the dish. On the other hand, beta acids give hops their unique flavor and aroma.

While acids give hops the bitter taste, essential oils are responsible for the actual flavor of hops and their aromas. Whenever you see hops described as floral, grassy, citrus, piney or earthy, they are referring to the flavors contributed by the oils to the individual variety of hops.

Hops’ essential oils are the complete opposite of acids. While the acids give their best during long boils, essential oils usually lose their value when boiled for long. To avoid losing these oils when cooking, it is prudent to add hops towards the end of your cooking if the dish involves extended boiling.

When cooking with hop flowers, you can opt to infuse a dish and strain out the hops such as when making custard or sauces. Alternatively, you can grind the hops into a fine texture to ensure that the flavor is distributed throughout the dish with no intention of removing them from the dish.

Ultimately, whichever way you choose to cook with hops, these flowers always work wonders on dishes by adding robust aromas, flavors, and textures.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Fragrant And Edible Lilacs

July 22, 2019

Did you know that lilacs, the all-time symbols of first love and innocence are also great on your plate? Anyone who has ever eaten them can testify that eating these blossoms gives an explosive flavor experience tinged with a mildly bitter and floral taste that is unforgettable. In addition, lilac flowers are good for garnishing.

Here is how to eat lilacs:

Lilac syrup
Lilac syrup is a delicious and excellent treat. It can be poured over pancakes or added as a liquor and lemonade base.

Ingredients
1 cup of sugar
1 cup of water
5-8 blueberries, for color
1 cup fresh lilac flowers

Process: Put water and sugar into a large pan and set over medium heat. Heat the mixture until the sugar dissolves. Add lilac flowers and simmer for about 10 minutes. Add blueberries depending on how deeply colored you want the syrup to be. Remove from heat and strain. Bottle the mixture and store in the refrigerator.

Lilac cordial

Ingredients
1 liter of water
5 cups of lilac blossoms
1.25 pounds of sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons of citric acid (optional but it enhances the flavor and acts as a preservative).

Process: Cut off most of the flower stalks but do not pull off the flowers as their nectar is at the bottom where the stalk and the flower connects. Disconnecting the stalks and flowers means you lose most of the nectar which is great for giving the cordial floral notes.

Put the blossoms in a non-reactive ceramic or glass bowl.
Put water and sugar into a medium-sized pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir frequently until the sugar is dissolved. Once the sugar is completely dissolved, remove from heat. Add the nitric acid (if desired) and stir. Pour the hot mixture over the blossoms and stir gently.

Cover the bowl with a lid and leave the cocktail at room temperature for 24 hours. Stir several times during the 24-hour period to keep blossoms from oxidizing. Cover with a plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for 48 hours to allow the blossoms to infuse the syrup with its flavors.

Enjoy the cordial at your pleasure.

Lilac cream tarts

Ingredients
1 cup of organic sugar
A pinch of cardamom
4 cups of lilac flowers
2 cups of cream
24 mini pastry tarts
1 cup of full fat drained Greek yogurt

Process: Lilac cream – Mix 2 cups of lilac flowers and 2 cups of warm whipping cream in a glass bowl. Place in a sunny spot and let the mixture sit in the sun for a whole afternoon. Then place in the refrigerator and allow to steep overnight. Strain out the flowers in the morning.

Lilac sugar: Take 1 cup of the flowers, add in a cup of sugar, place in a food processor. Whiz until flowers are completely dissolved in sugar.
Whip cream as you add in the lilac sugar and toss in a pinch of cardamom. Blend the mixture gently by hand.

Heat oven to 350 F and bake the pastry shells until golden brown. Allow them to cool and spoon a tablespoon of the lilac cream into the shells. Garnish with a dash of lilac flowers and lilac sugar.

For best results, serve the same day.

By now, you know that lilacs are not just good for their fragrance and ornamental value, but can also make your dishes sing. So, go on and try them.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Cooking With Elderflower

July 18, 2019

The American elder, common elder, elderflower or sambucus canadensis is a flowering shrub commonly found growing in most US states along roadsides, ditches or hedges. It is characterized by ivory or cream-colored blossoms commonly known as elderflowers which come out in spring and early summer. The flowers occur in umbels featuring an umbrella-shaped cluster.

[Note: The stems, leaves and unripe berries of the elder plant can be toxic as they contain cyanide-inducing glycosides. However, elderflowers are perfectly safe to eat as long as you detach them from most of their stalks. In addition, the elder tree should never be mistaken for Hercules’ club or Zanthoxylum clava-herculis which has similar berries and leaves-the berries are toxic. Hercules’ club’s berry clusters are flat compared to round elder berries. In addition, hercules’ club’s stems are thorny, while elder stems are smooth.]

Elderflowers are not only used for medicinal purposes but are good on your plate. Here are elderflower recipes to try out:

Elderflower cordial
Elderflower cordial is a beverage dating back as far as the ancient Roman Empire. In simple words, it is an ancient soft drink. While you can get a bottle at the store, you can also easily make yours at home.

As per tradition, the cordial is mixed with carbonated water just before drinking, but this recipe will use naturally bubbly sparkler.

Ingredients
2 cups of hot water
7 pints of water
4 fresh elder blossom heads
Rind or juice of 1 lemon
3 ½ cups caster sugar
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

Process: Mix sugar and hot water in a large glass container. Add the remaining ingredients and stir thoroughly. Cover the mixture and allow to sit at room temperature for 5 days. Strain liquid into sterilized flip-flop or screw bottles and allow to sit for 7 days.

Serve cold and garnish with lemon, mint or strawberry.

Elderflower cordial with duck

Ingredients
125g/5oz cherries, stones removed
50ml/2fl oz elderflower cordial
50ml/2fl oz cider vinegar
100ml/4fl oz rapeseed oil
Salt, to taste

Elder blossoms cordial make a great topping for duck. According to Chef Lawrence Keogh, you start by seasoning duck breast with salt and peppercorn. Then you warm a frying pan, coat it with vegetable oil and sear the duck on each side before reducing the heat and cooking for about 10 minutes. Flip once.

Meanwhile, simmer elderflower cordial with cherries in a saucepan and allow the pan to cool. Take out the cherries and put in cider vinegar, salt, and canola oil before tossing the cherries back in. Serve duck slices topped with a salad of red lettuce, mustard cress, elder blossoms, and lovage.

While it is quite easy to find the elderflower growing in ditches and roadsides, there is nothing common about having blossoms of this shrub on your plate.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

The Amazing Health Benefits Of Lilac Flowers

July 17, 2019

Syringa vulgaris or lilac is a flowering, deciduous shrub in the olive family. It is native to the Balkan Peninsula and was commonly propagated by European immigrants wherever they settled in order to preserve memories of home. In the US, lilacs were brought by pioneers in the 1800s. These flowers are commonly cultivated for their beautiful purple-blue or yellow petals and fragrance. In addition, the flowers are popular for their essential oils which are commonly used in aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy has been used for centuries as a form of healing and managing psychological and physical problems. In aromatherapy, fragrant oils of specific plants are diffused into the air through a candle or atomizer. According to aromatherapy enthusiasts, inhalation of these oils provide various benefits including easing anxiety, easing congestion and in some instances enhancing feelings of sensuality.

Apart from being used in aromatherapy, lilacs have a medicinal history. In the past, these flowers were used to eliminate parasitic worms and cure malaria. In addition, lilacs have been used to treat fever and skin ailments including sunburns, scrapes, and cuts.

At a basic level, lilac flowers have astringent properties. Astringents contain compounds that are highly effective in toning and tightening your skin, which make them ideal for the beauty industry. As a result, topical application of lilac oil or infusion helps in reducing premature aging, wrinkles and skin sagging. In addition, lilac infusions are commonly applied to cuts and rashes to hasten healing.

When taken orally, a lilac infusion enhances blood flow by triggering irritation to the places it comes into contact with such as the gastrointestinal tract. Enhanced blood flow hastens healing by directing the body’s resources to the affected area.

Vermifuge
Lilac’s essential oil is an ideal vermifuge. This means that it has anthelmintic properties which are great for purging the body of intestinal worms. Anthelmintic drugs kill or stun parasites and intestinal worms without harming the body.

Antibacterial
Lilac flowers not only have a divine fragrance but also possess antibacterial properties. These properties make it handy for eliminating infection-causing bacteria. In addition, lilac oil or infusion can be used in homes as an air freshener and disinfectant at the same time.

So, do you want to inhale the uplifting fragrance of these flowers and enjoy the health benefits of lilacs? How about growing some in your garden?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Lemon verbena medicinal uses. The plant's aerial parts can be infused and used as an expectorant, sedative and digestive tract remedy

Culinary Uses Of Lemon Verbena

July 13, 2019

Lemon verbena is grown for its aroma and culinary taste. Unlike most herbs with culinary value, lemon verbena can be used fresh or dry without losing most of its aroma. To dry the flowers and leaves of the herb, tie the stems at the bottom and hang to dry. Alternatively, strip off the leaves and place them in a dehydrator.

Lemon verbena was brought to Europe by Spanish explorers, mostly from Chile and Argentina, in the 17th century. There, the herb was grown for its oil which has a lemony flavor. The oil was used in cosmetics and perfumes until cheaper alternatives including lemongrass oil replaced it. Apart from being used in the beauty industry, the herb was commonly used in the Victorian Era to make potpourri. Today, culinary uses of lemon verbena include dressing fruit salads, flavoring drinks, marinades, and fish soups.

Lemon verbena bread

Ingredients
I 1/2 cup sugar
¼ cup lemon verbena leaves, chopped
2 teaspoon verbena blossoms, chopped
Fresh juice from 1 medium-sized lemon
1 stick unsalted butter
1 ½ cup sifted flour
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
Grated rind of 1 lemon
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
¾ chopped nuts (optional)

Process: Cream butter with verbena leaves in a food processor or mixer. Add 1 cup of sugar and beat until thoroughly mixed, then put in salt, eggs and the rest of the ingredients except the lemon juice, the verbena blossoms, and the remaining 1/2 cup sugar.

Grease loaf pans and pour in the mixture. Bake at 350o F for about 40 minutes. To test if the bread is done, insert a cake tester or toothpick into the bread. If the tester comes out clean, the bread is done.

Leave the loaf in the pan and prepare glaze using the remaining ½ cup of sugar, lemon juice, and verbena blossoms. To prepare the glaze place the sugar, lemon juice and blossoms in a small saucepan and stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. While the loaf is still hot, pour the glaze over it and allow to sit for several hours. Remove loaf from pan and wrap in foil overnight before serving or freeze immediately.

Lemon verbena sugar cookies

Ingredients
2 teaspoons fresh verbena leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh verbena flowers, chopped
2 ½ cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 eggs
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup of sugar
1 ½ teaspoons zest
1 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
Extra sugar for rolling

Process: Combine all the dry ingredients. Beat butter, eggs, vanilla, and sugar in a separate bowl until thoroughly mixed. Add half of the flour mixture and beat thoroughly. Stir in remaining dry ingredients with a wooden spoon. Make rounded teaspoonfuls. Roll in extra sugar. Place on an ungreased baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees until edges are slightly golden.

Ultimately, unlike many herbs that have been replaced over time, the culinary uses of lemon verbena have consistently ensured that the plant is as famous as it was centuries ago when its oil was sought after for making perfumes.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Purslane: A Weed That Heals

July 11, 2019

Portulaca oleracea or purslane is a succulent annual herb growing 10-30 cm tall. It thrives in warm, sandy soils and is considered a weed in most regions due to its invasive growth patterns. The plant has red-brown stems and wedge-shaped leaves. It blooms in summer featuring yellow flowers containing 4-6 petals which give way to black, rough seeds. Though purslane is also known as little hogweed, it should never be mistaken with the giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum).

The health benefits of purslane were discovered and exploited more than 2,000 years ago. Ancient Romans used pursalne to treat dysentery, stomachache, intestinal worms, and headache. Pedanius Dioscorides, the 1st-century Greek physician recommended consuming purslane to treat headaches, indigestion, toothache, and inflammation.

Dioscorides stated that the plant’s juices were effective for managing high fever and had the potential for treating urinary tract problems as well as internal bleeding.

In China, the herb was commonly referred to as the “vegetable for long life.” Its flowers and leaves were dried and used for diarrhea, eczema, fever, and hematochezia. In addition, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has always used the herb for treating urolithiasis, vascular endothelial dysfunction, and diabetes.

Basically, purslane is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and high in minerals and vitamins. It also possesses antioxidants including beta carotene, ascorbic acid, glutathione, and topopherol. The plant is also known to contain alkaloids, lipids, and glycosides.

Improves cardiovascular health
Studies have shown that the high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in this herb are ideal for reducing bad cholesterol in the body. This helps in promoting healthier cholesterol balance and keeps cardiovascular complications such as strokes and heart attacks at bay.

Helps in child growth and development
Purslane is rich in omega-3s. Though there is a need for more research into this field, early studies indicate that omega-3 fatty acids in the diet of young kids seem to reduce the risk of developmental disorders such as ADHD and autism.

Skin care
Purslane is known to assist in treating a wide variety of skin conditions. A study published in 2004 showed that purslane leaves have high levels of vitamin A. The vitamin, when combined with other compounds in this herb, helps in reducing inflammation when applied topically. When taken orally, it is thought to help in reducing wrinkles, enhance skin tone and stimulate the healing of skin cells which removes blemishes and scars.

While purslane is often ignored and considered a weed, harnessing its medicinal properties can be highly beneficial to your health.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Purslane: A Succulent, Culinary And Flowering Weed

July 10, 2019

Purslane or portulaca oleracea, also known as duckweed, is a succulent, annual herb that thrives in many countries as a weed due to its ability to grow in poor soil. The herb is edible and is usually eaten as a cooked vegetable or sprinkled over stews, salads, and soups.

Note: Purslane is similar to euphorbia vermiculata or hairy-stemmed spurge which is a poisonous plant. Hairy-stemmed spurge can be identified by a milky sap which is evident when you squeeze the stem. On the other hand, purslane has a thick, reddish stem and green, succulent leaves.

Duckweed not only possesses great antibacterial and antioxidant properties but is also packed with important nutritive components such as omega-3 fatty acids which are great for boosting the body’s immune system. Omega-3s are a category of polyunsaturated essential fatty acids. Since the body does not make essential fatty acids, you must get them from the food you eat. Unfortunately, the average American diet is usually low on fatty acids which expose many people to conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Purslane is also rich in vitamin E. Actually, the herb contains 6 times the amount of vitamin E compared to spinach and 7 times the amount of beta carotene in carrots. The plant is also rich in magnesium, potassium, vitamin C and riboflavin as well as phosphorus.

Purslane has edible stems (when tender), leaves and flowers. It has a similar taste to spinach or watercress and can be substituted for pickles or lettuce. According to Patryk Battle, a market gardener in North Carolina, purslane is so tasty that anybody who tries it never hesitates to buy the herb. In addition, purslane’s high levels of pectin, which make it heart-friendly, is also great for thickening soups and stews. Since it can get slimy when overcooked, it is always advisable to add it to dishes when they are almost done.

Purslane recipes include:

Purslane and parsley salad

Ingredients
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
¼ teaspoon of salt
6 cups tender purslane leaves, blossoms, and stems
1 tablespoon chopped shallot
3 tablespoon olive oil
½ pound cherry tomatoes-halved or quartered
4 cups flat-leaf parsley leaves

Process: Whisk oil, salt, lemon juice, shallot and pepper in a large bowl. Throw in purslane, tomatoes, and parsley. Toss gently to coat and serve.

While purslane seems like a common flowering weed and a nuisance to most people, it is uncommonly good for you as it tops the list of plants with high nutritive value. So, how about ordering some for your garden or kitchen?

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Hops: Beer Ingredient With Health Properties

July 8, 2019

Hops are the flowers of the hop plant or humulus lupulus. The hop plant is native to Europe but is now cultivated worldwide including in the US where 97 percent of hops come from Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. While the climbing hop vine is renowned for imparting flavor to pilsners and ales, most people do not know that these flowers are not only good for making beer but also have medicinal properties. The health benefits of hops are attributed to compounds in the plant’s flowers such as flavonoids, lupulone and humulene.
Alternative medicine enthusiasts hold that these compounds have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-anxiety properties.

Insomnia
Early physicians discovered that hop harvesters usually got tired and drowsy quite fast during the harvesting period. They assumed that the sticky resin excreted when the plant is cut was responsible for these effects. With time, scientists confirmed that lupolene and humulene in hops have mild sedative effects which were responsible for the drowsy behavior of the hop pickers.

Relieves tension headaches
Since hops have a sedative effect, they are ideal for treating headaches caused by tension. They achieve this by enhancing blood circulation to your brain. Apart from relieving tense nerves, they also loosen and calm tense muscles and nerves in the neck and shoulders which helps in relieving paranoia.

Hot flashes
Hops contain flavonoid 8-prenylnaringenin, a compound classified as a phytoestrogen. This is a compound found in plants that mimics the effects of estrogen, the female hormone. Some studies suggest that 8-prenylnaringenin helps in increasing estrogenic activity in the body which helps in overcoming estrogen deficiency.

Since estrogen is known to reduce during menopause, hops are seen as an effective remedy for hot flashes and night sweats which accompany the condition.

In a 2010 study conducted in Finland, menopausal women received hops extracts over a period of 8 weeks. At the end of the period, researchers noticed that the women experienced a significant reduction in night sweats, hot flashes, and low libido compared to those who received a placebo.

Researchers also noticed that hops had a similar effect as conventional hormone replacement therapy(HRT) but minus the effects associated with HRT such as headaches, bloating, leg cramps and indigestion.

Digestive health
Indigestion is a common problem that affects people for various reasons. It can be quite uncomfortable and affect your overall health. To ease digestion problems, alternative cure enthusiasts recommend that you drink herbal infusions containing hop blossoms. Hops not only helps in aiding digestion but are also great for treating irregular bowel movement and softening the stool. In addition, consuming hops infusion is known to relieve bloating and alleviate stomach upsets.

Now, next time you drive or walk past hop farms in states such as Oregon and Washington, you may need to stop and admire them knowing that these climbing plants are not only good for making beer but also great for keeping you healthy.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Royal, Mysterious And Medicinal: Bluebells Surprising Facts

July 5, 2019

Hyacinthoides nonscripta, commonly known as English bluebell, common bluebell or bluebell is a perennial, bulbous plant in the Lily (Liiaceae) family. It is native to the western regions of the Atlantic and north-western Spain. Today, the flowering plant is naturalized in many parts of the world including the United States especially in the Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes regions, and other parts of North America.

The plant’s botanical name – hyacinthoides nonscripta- is based on an ancient Greek legend about a dashing young man who caught the attention of the god Apollo. One day, when teaching the young man how to throw the discus, Apollo accidentally hit Hyacinthus on the head, killing him instantly. A hyacinth flower appeared where the blood of the young man splashed the ground.

Hyacinthoides means hyacinth-like while ‘non-scripta’ means unmarked or unlettered. This was aimed at distinguishing the plant from the conventional hyacinth mentioned in Greek mythology.

Bluebells have a rich past woven into fairy tales and folklore. Apart from the Greek legend outlined above, a popular fairy tale claims that these flowers were commonly used as bells by fairies to summon their people to fairy meetings. The fairies were highly protective of their bells and cast spells on anyone who picked the flowers or damaged them. In line with this folklore, ancient people avoided walking through a field of bluebells. After all, no one wanted to mess with fairies.

Hyacinthoides nonscripta produces bell-shaped or tubular flowers between mid-April and May that are usually violet-blue or blue in color. In some instances, they are white or pink, though the two colors are quite rare. The tips of the flowers curve upwards and each flower has 6 petals – technically it has 3 outer petals and 3 inner petals.

Bluebells take about 5 years from germination to flowering. These plants are so precious in Britain that they are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The act stipulates that uprooting a wild bluebell from land on which it naturally occurs is a criminal offense punishable by a fine of about £5000 ($6300).

Apart from having a coveted place in Greek mythology, ancient folklore and being protected in Britain, bluebells are beautiful and ideal for floral arrangement. In addition, bluebells herbal medicinal properties are being researched to find more about their beneficial qualities.

Some studies show that bluebells have compounds with healing properties. Their flowers, leaves, and roots have been used by Chippewa and Thompson Indians for treating lung, heart and ear ailments. In addition, bluebells have been used to reduce swelling, stop bleeding, alleviate depression and boost milk production in nursing mothers.

Cancer and HIV fighting properties
Bluebells are said to possess about 15 biologically active compounds that protect them against destruction by insects and animals. Some of these compounds have similar chemical properties to those used in the fight against cancer and HIV.

When you consider the many mysteries and myths surrounding hyacinthoides nonscripta, not to mention its beautiful flowers and the value attached to the flower by the British government, there is no better time to have bluebells growing in your garden like now.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Surprising Balloon Flower Health Benefits

July 4, 2019

Platycodon grandiflorus, commonly known as balloon flower due to the unique shape of the plant’s flower bud, is a perennial, flowering shrub. Its balloon-like buds open up into 5 strikingly beautiful purple-blue petals with beautiful lobes. The plant is native to East Asia, Japan, and Siberia but has been domesticated around the world as an ornamental plant. In addition, the balloon flower health benefits have assisted in endearing the plant to many gardeners and herbal enthusiasts for centuries.

Initially, the plant was grown or gathered in the wild for its medicinal properties. Today, it is cultivated, harvested and used as a herbal remedy as it contains sterols, glucose, volatile oils, botulin acid, and saponins. When these chemicals are combined with other organic compounds in the plant they act quickly on the body to bring healing effects.

Balloon flower health benefits include:

Relieving gastrointestinal problems
Balloon flowers are great for relieving common gastrointestinal problems such as dysentery, stomach upsets, and ulcers. The ability to cure these gastrointestinal problems stems from the saponin properties in the plant.

Apart from helping relieve gastrointestinal issues, the plant is also great in regulating digestion and managing hemorrhoids.

Heart-friendly
Studies conducted on animal tests indicate that balloon flower extracts have significant ability to reduce bad cholesterol levels while increasing good cholesterol levels. This results in low chances of developing atherosclerosis, which reduces the probability of suffering from stroke significantly.

Liver friendly
The liver is often attacked by pesky parasites such as liver flukes. Studies show that balloon flower extracts have the ability to protect against various types of parasites by enhancing the liver’s efficiency and improving metabolism.

Anti-allergen
Emerging evidence indicates that consuming balloon flower roots is likely to lower the severity of allergic responses by inhibiting the release of histamines by the body. This can only herald good news for people suffering from seasonal and chronic allergic reactions.

Anticancer
A study published in the Journal of Molecular Medicine indicates that antioxidant compounds in the plant are highly effective in battling and neutralizing free radicals. These are dangerous byproducts of cellular respiration that causes unusual changes in the cells leading to various cancers.

Respiratory system relief
Balloon flowers contain compounds with expectorant properties which are great for easing congestion by breaking up mucus and phlegm. This gets rid of harmful pathogens that thrive in mucus, which help in preventing other opportunistic infections from developing and accelerate healing.

Unlike most herbal cures that fell out and waned with the advent of pharmaceutical products, the balloon flower has never lost its popularity. Instead, more evidence is emerging suggesting that this plant holds many health benefits compared to what is known to date.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Edible Hollyhock: How To Eat Alcea Rosea

July 3, 2019

Did you know hollyhocks are edible? Yes, the whole plant can be used for food purposes. Hollyhocks are members of the Malvaceae family with beautiful, showy flowers. They bloom from July to September and seeds appear towards August. If you intend to pick the flowers for floral arrangement, medicinal or culinary purposes, harvest them in July and August when they are in full bloom.

While hollyhock was a popular culinary delight centuries ago, not many people know about the culinary value of alcea rosea today. In fact, most people are only familiar with the plant’s showy flowers.

Hollyhock is closely related to marshmallow and can be substituted for it. However, when using hollyhock rather than marshmallow, you need to know that hollyhock has tougher, woodier roots which are less palatable compared to marshmallow’s delicate roots.

Hollyhock’s delicate flavor and nutritive value usually get destroyed when exposed to high temperatures or alcohol, so it is important to keep that in mind when preparing it.

Here are some hollyhock recipes:

Hollyhock tea/infusion
Hollyhock infusion, commonly known as tea, is not only refreshing on hot days but also great for soothing sore throats. The tea has been consumed in the US since colonial times to date.

Ingredients
4-5 hollyhock flowers
Canning jar with a lid
1 cup of boiled water
Honey (optional)

Process: Remove petals from the blossoms and place them in the canning jar. Pour hot water over the petals and place the lid on the jar.

Allow to steep for about 15 minutes.

Strain and stir in some honey if and as desired. Serve warm to relieve a sore throat or place in the refrigerator and serve chilled for summertime drink.

Hollyhock salad dressing

Ingredients
2 hollyhock blossoms
1 cup nutritional yeast flakes
A pinch of kosher salt
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
1/3 cup water
1 minced garlic (optional)

Process: Wash hollyhock blossoms, rinse and place into a bowl of water and put them in the refrigerator until later.

Put water, soy sauce, oil, nutritional yeast, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and kosher salt into the food processor. Blend until creamy with no lumps.

Pour the mixture into a bowl or jar

Remove the flowers from the refrigerator; dry them with a paper towel. Chop the blossoms into small pieces and sprinkle them over the mixture. Sit back and enjoy.

Note that the flowers may not keep well for long, so use them within 12 hours.

Ultimately, hollyhocks are multipurpose flowers that not only look great in floral arrangements but also give dishes a great flavor while also adding to their appeal. Try them today!

Comments: 1 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Medicinal And Ornamental: The Wonders Of Hollyhock Flowers

July 2, 2019

Hollyhock, also known as Alcea rosea, is an erect, herbaceous, biennial flowering plant in the Malvaceae family. It is thought to have originated from South-Western China and is native to Europe and Asia. Since the 15th century, the plant has been cultivated in Europe for its health-enhancing benefits plus its beautiful, attention-grabbing purple to pink flowers. Today, alcea rosea’s medicinal uses and its aesthetic appeal have seen it naturalized in many regions of the world with temperate climates.

In ancient times, hollyhock was a highly popular plant as it was thought to reflect God’s love due to its hardy nature. In Tibetan medicine, the roots and blossoms were used for inflammation of the kidneys and the womb. They were also used to stop the involuntary release of semen and stanch vaginal discharge.

While hollyhock was always viewed as a hardy plant, with time, the plant became vulnerable to multiple pests and diseases including a fungus commonly known as rust that has largely contributed to its decimation, which explains why this flowering plant is no longer popular for its health benefits unlike in the past.

Alcea rosea medicinal uses include:

Easing digestive problems
Hollyhock blossoms have been known to have a positive effect on the digestive system for years. According to an 1859 medical book, hollyhock flowers were mixed with bayberry, poplar bark, and goldenseal to make a potent herbal concoction for promoting digestion and enhancing bowel movement. Hollyhock is also good for treating peptic ulcers, colitis, and mouth ulcers.

Respiratory system
Hollyhock is highly effective in managing conditions that affect the respiratory system. Oral infusions made from hollyhock’s flowers, roots and seeds are very good for soothing irritated or sore throats and curing dry coughs. The infusion is also great for clearing and decongesting blocked airways.

Oral health
Hollyhock blossoms have powerful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties which make it ideal for managing oral health.

Fever
Hollyhock contains antipyretic properties which make it a handy remedy for high fever. Its infusion, commonly known as hollyhock tea, boosts blood circulation and warms up the body. Enhanced blood circulation promotes sweating and helps in detoxification which keeps the body hydrated and assists in managing fever.

Haircare
Hollyhock’s blue blossoms make excellent natural hair dye. To make the dye, add the blue flowers to boiling water and allow to simmer for 10 minutes. Strain, allow to cool and use at your pleasure.

Skincare
Hollyhock is a natural skin moisturizer and conditioner. It has properties that hydrate and tone the skin making it soft and flexible which is great for preventing premature aging.

Though this flowering plant is a beautiful addition to your yard or garden, its usefulness goes beyond its aesthetic appeal. Its fame and prevalence may have been negatively impacted by pests and fungal attacks, but alcea rosea medicinal uses still give it a seat among the highly sought-after herbal plants.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Busy And Potent: Impatiens Medicinal Properties

July 1, 2019

Impatiens is a genus of about a 1,000 species of perennial flowering plants naturally occurring in the tropics and the Northern Hemisphere. These flowering plants are commonly referred to as jewelweed, impatiens, patience, touch-me-not, busy Lizzie and snapweed.

Touch-me-nots have been described by various people trying to capture their essence. However, the description by the 18th century English physician, Erasmus Darwin, grandfather to Charles Darwin, says it all. Entrusted with the difficult task of identifying a herbal cure against several diseases plaguing Europe, he wrote” “with fierce distracted eye impatiens stands, swells her pale cheeks and brandishes her hands. With rage and hate the astonished groves alarms. And hurls her infants from her frantic arms.”

In one paragraph, Darwin summed up the behavioral traits of impatiens. These plants proliferate at high rates, thus rightly earning the name “impatient”. Botanists also fondly refer to the genus as “Busy Lizzy” because of the speed at which they flower.

While there are many varieties of impatiens plants, all of them have some medicinal use. Native Americans commonly used impatiens capensis, also known as jewelweed, for medicinal purposes. Curiously, impatiens capensis grows alongside poison ivy and is an effective remedy against the plant’s toxins. Herbalists faced with patients experiencing allergic reactions due to exposure from poison ivy would request the affected to show them where their body came into contact with the ivy and quickly prescribe impatiens capensis to alleviate the symptoms.

Impatiens are rich in antifungal and anti-inflammatory compounds including 2-methoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone. These compounds make the plant especially the jewelweed variety, a handy herbal remedy for various ailments.

The Potawatombi and tribes living in the Appalachia region used jewelweed to treat sores. In addition, some Native Americans held that drinking a cup of impatiens infusion in August or September protected them against poison ivy toxins for the following year.

Away from folklore and myths, jewelweed infusion has diuretic, emetic and cathartic capabilities. These properties are great for treating people who have ingested poisonous substances, alleviate depression and helps the body to get rid of excess water and salt in order to regulate blood pressure.

Early American settlers learned about jewelweed from Native Americans and quickly adopted it for treating skin-related ailments including dandruff and athletes foot. In 1672, John Josseyln reported that colonists considered the plant a potent remedy for bruises of every kind. A study conducted at the University of Vermont suggested that the flowering herb has potent antifungal compounds. The study showed that impatiens are ideal for treating ringworm, athlete’s foot, and dandruff.

To date, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts still use jewelweed and other impatiens species to treat nettle stings, insect bites and other skin irritations.

Ultimately, while there is a need for on-going research to confirm most of the claims about the health benefits of using busy Lizzies including the jewelweed variety, there are no doubts that impatiens medicinal properties have the ability to relieve suffering from minor and major ailments.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

White Clover: Herb Flowers For Comfort And Healing

June 26, 2019

Trifolium repens, commonly known as white clover, ladino clover, Dutch white clover or lodi clover, is perennial herb native to Central Asia and Europe but has been introduced as a yard crop around the world. It is common in North America and New Zealand and thrives in moist and cool climates.
The herb features circular or oval-shaped leaves and shoots out white, scented flowers with a pink hue. It has elongated, erect stems that are hairless with a light green hue.

White clover flowers and leaves are commonly used for food and medicinal purposes. They are good for detoxification, repairing body tissue and great for sores. Here are white clover flowers recipes you should try out:

White clover iced infusion/tea
White clover flowers are packed with vitamins and minerals. They make refreshing infusions commonly known as teas that are highly nutritious. To make an ideal infusion, you need the following:

4 cups of water
1 cup of fresh white clover flowers or a ½ cup of dried flowers.
Lemon wedge (optional)
Maple syrup or honey (optional)

Process: Bring the water to a boil and remove from heat. Put the flowers into a quart jar and pour the hot water over the blossoms.
Allow the mixture to steep for about 30 minutes or several hours depending on how potent you want your infusion to be. Strain out the clover flowers with a fine sieve and place in the refrigerator.
Serve cold with maple syrup/honey and a toss of lemon if desired.

White clover pudding

Ingredients
1 cup of water
1 cup of heavy cream
2 cups of white clover blossoms
1 teaspoon of organic unflavored gelatin
4 tablespoon of honey
Pinch of salt
½ cup of fresh orange juice

Process: dissolve the gelatin in a ¼ cup of water.
Put white clover flowers, water, orange juice, salt, and honey into a medium-sized pan. Bring to a boil.

Remove from heat, stir in gelatin until its dissolved. Allow to stand for about 10 minutes.

Place the mixture into a refrigerator until it starts to jell.
Whip 1 cup of heavy cream until it is stiff, fold the cream into the jelled clover mixture.

Put the mixture into a serving bowl and refrigerate until set.

White clover bread

Ingredients
1 cup of white clover flowers
1 ½ cup milk (fat-free if desired)
1 cup of whole wheat flour
1 cup of white flour
¼ cup of unsweetened apple sauce
4 teaspoon honey
1 egg
1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cooking spray or oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Process: preheat the oven to 350 F.
Working in batches, put the flowers in the food processor for blending.
In a medium-sized bowl, mix flour, clover flowers, salt, and baking powder. Stir gently to mix thoroughly.

In a larger bowl, mix vanilla extract, apple sauce, honey, milk, and egg.
Mix the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients and stir as you go.

Coat a loaf pan with cooking spray or oil. Pour mixture into a loaf pan.
Place the mixture into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Check if the bread is done by inserting a knife into the bread. If it comes out clean, it is done.

The white clover flowers recipes outlined above are just a tip of the iceberg aimed at firing your imagination. So, get down and let your culinary creativity run wild.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Chervil: The Delicate But Popular Flowering Herb

June 25, 2019

Chervil has a light flavor that most people claim is similar to licorice or anise. Others describe chervil’s flavor as mild or minty. It is one of the herbs-alongside tarragon, parsley, and chives-used in French cooking to make fine herbes, a traditional culinary blend in France. The flavor is very delicate and usually gets lost when heavily cooked, so it is normally added to dishes towards the end of cooking. The herb is also used in egg dishes and French recipes for béarnaise sauce.

Fresh chervil is not easy to find in the produce section of grocery stores because it’s a seasonal herb and is usually in plenty during spring. To make it even more complicated, it does not store well in the refrigerator. The longest you can keep chervil fresh is a week by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and storing in the fridge. Alternatively, you can keep it longer by freezing it.

However, not all is doom and gloom as you can easily get dried chervil in the spice section of most supermarkets and grocery stores. The only downside is that dried chervil does not have the distinctive and delicate flavor of the fresh herb.

One of the reasons why chervil is such an important herb in the culinary world is that you can eat its roots, leaves, stem, and flowers. This means that no part of this herb goes to waste. Below is a chervil recipe to try out.

Chervil, salmon, and omelet

Ingredients
2 thinly sliced spring onions
2 tablespoon chervil, chopped
8 large eggs
2 tablespoon chives
20g or ¾ oz butter
Freshly ground black pepper
4 thin slices of smoked salmon cut into thin strips
100g or 3 ½oz lettuce leaves

Process: mix the beaten eggs, chervil, and spring onions in a large bowl and season with black pepper.

Heat a medium-sized pan over an average flame and melt in a ¼ of the butter until it starts to foam.

Pour in a ¼ of the egg mixture and swirl to cover the base of the pan.
Stir gently until the mixture is almost set. Add a ¼ of the salmon and cook until it sets.

Fold over and slide onto a serving plate.

Repeat the process to make several omelets and serve each omelet with lettuce leaves and a dip of your choice.

Chervil’s delicate flavors have been spicing and garnishing dishes since time immemorial. Once you try it in your soups, salads, and pasta, you will get to appreciate why the French have held this herb in high esteem as an integral part of their cuisine.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Chervil: Not Just Another Pretty Flower

June 24, 2019

Anthriscus cerefolium, commonly known as chervil is an annual herb that closely resembles parsley. The herb is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly used for garnishing. Apart from being used for garnishing, chervil medicinal uses have been extolled by herbalists for many years.

In studies involving animals and lab settings, chervil has been shown to have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants assist the body to delay or prevent cell damage which occurs due to exposure to free radicals.

According to the National Institute of Health, oxidative stress plays a major role in causing a variety of health conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. It is also responsible for eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

Chervil is rich in minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. It also contains essentials oils including 4-dimethoxybenzene and 1-allyl-2. Chevril medicinal uses include:

Digestive health
Ancient civilizations used members of the Apiaceae family to treat and manage gastric-intestinal problems. Studies show that chervil infusions can treat stomach cramps and stomach ache. In addition, just like cilantro, parsley, and celery, chervil is great for digestion and for preventing hyperlipidemia

Antiseptic
Eugenol, one of chervil’s essential oils, has antiseptic and anesthetic properties. It is used in dentistry as local anesthesia and as an antiseptic agent for teeth and gum diseases. Eugenol has also been shown to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

Brain care
Chervil, just like its close cousins, tarragon and parsley is rich in polyphenolic flavonoid antioxidants such as apigenin. Studies suggest that apigenin works as a neuroprotector and is likely to prevent Alzheimer’s disease by reducing neural damage in the brain.

Heart-friendly
Dried chervil is a great source of minerals such as calcium, potassium, manganese, zinc, and iron. Potassium is an important electrolyte that regulates blood pressure and heart rate by countering the effects of sodium. It is also good for the production of heme, which plays a major role in the transmission of oxygen inside red blood cells.

Weight loss
Chervil is used alongside red clover, dandelion and white bean to regulate weight loss. The combination is used to formulate the Ketogenic Mediterranean with Phytoextracts diet. This diet combines a very-low-calorie ketogenic diet and the Mediterranean diet, while the phytoextracts come in handy for countering side effects associated with the ketogenic diet.

Chervil may not be as famous as most herbs used to manage and treat ailments. But this little-known herb is no pushover as it has its accolades in the herbal world.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Dill Health Benefits And Uses

June 23, 2019

Dill or anuthem graveolens is a hardy, annual herb in the celery family. It is native to Southern Russia and the Mediterranean. Dill has been used for warding off evil by traditionalists and for medicinal purposes by herbalists for more than 2,000 years. Its medicinal properties come from the amino acids, flavonoids, and minerals its leaves, stems, flowers and seeds. Here are dill health benefits and uses:

Aids digestion
Dill contains essential oils that stimulate the production of digestive juices. These oils stimulate the peristaltic motion of the intestines which is not only good for your digestive tract but also helps in bowel movement and alleviates constipation.

Relieves flatulence
Dill has carminative qualities. Basically, carminatives are substances that inhibit the formation of gas in the digestive system and eliminate any existing gas by forcing it down which prevents flatulence. While mild flatulence can be highly uncomfortable and humiliating, excess accumulation of gas in the gastrointestinal tract can be harmful. The excess gas has the potential of putting pressure on sensitive organs of the chest cavity and displacing them which can lead to serious health conditions.

Manages depression
Depression has become a major public health concern, especially among young adults. Thankfully, dill can tame and manage this mental health problem. According to the American Journal of Therapeutics, dill has analgesic and antidepressant properties. Dill’s polyphenol and flavonoids have calming and soothing effects which are great for combating depression.

In addition, dill is known to stimulate the production of various hormones including serotonin, dopamine and other endorphins which are responsible for the feelings of wellbeing and satisfaction. Studies show that dill extracts are so potent that they are said to have similar effects to pharmaceutical drugs such as tramadol and sertraline which are great for relieving pain and alleviating depression.

Stops hiccups
Hiccups usually occur when gas is trapped inside the esophagus. They may occur due to allergies or for many other reasons. Dill’s carminative properties have the ability to expel the gas trapped in the esophagus as well as reduce gas formation. In addition, dill has sedative properties which are ideal for managing hyperactivity and allergies.

Cures diarrhea and dysentery
Dill has antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties which are great for dealing with bacterial and parasitic infections that normally cause diarrhea and dysentery. It also contains monoterpenes and flavonoids in its essential oils which have bactericidal and germicidal inhibiting qualities.

Soothes and reduces menstrual cramps
Dill’s essential oil has flavonoids with emmenagogue properties. These are flavonoids that stimulate the secretion of hormones that are critical in regulating menstrual cycles in women. In addition, dill’s antibacterial properties assist in preventing infections that affect the reproductive system during menstruation.

Dill, especially the diminutive type that grows to barely a couple of feet may not look like much of a herbal plant. But from the above uses, it is clear that the plant has potent and highly beneficial medicinal properties.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

How To Use Dill Flowers As A Culinary Delight

June 22, 2019

Anethum graveolens, commonly known as dill or dill weed, is a fast-growing annual herb that can complete its growth cycle in as little as 2 months. The lanky-looking plant with fernlike features you see today in grocery stores was so precious that it was normally kept under lock and key. Dill’s flowers, leaves, stems, and seeds are all edible. This article will show you how to use dill flowers as a culinary delight.

Dill’s blossoms come out as spiny and yellow flowers from spring to summer. They have been used as culinary delights and for medicinal purposes by ancient civilizations including the Romans and Egyptians for years. Dill was used as a Grecian sedative and aphrodisiac as well as a magic ward to keep off wizards in the middle ages.

Dill flowers have a stronger taste compared to leaves but milder compared to the seeds. Their crisp flavor elevates musty ingredients such as potatoes mushrooms, beets, and cabbages. They also bring out the natural sweetness of salmon, tomato, yogurt, and cucumber. In addition, the flowers are known to improve the flavor of pickled vegetables.

While the flowers are highly sought out for various uses, they do not last long once they are picked, so if you do not intend to use the blossoms immediately after picking, it is important to preserve them well after harvesting. For best results, pick the flowers when they are just opening up. If you plan on harvesting seeds later, leave a few flowers to mature into seeds.

Once you pick the flowers, immerse them in cold water and agitate gently to get rid of dirt. Rinse the flowers and spread them out on paper towels in a single layer to dry. Once dry, cut the blossoms from the stems add to stews or soups. For sauces and dips, chop the flowers before tossing them in.
To preserve leftover dill blossoms, place them in zip-top sandwich bags and put them into a refrigerator to keep them fresh for longer.

Chilled lemon-dill cucumber noodles

Ingredients
¾ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound English cucumber, peeled
Finely grated zest of a sizable lemon
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill flowers
1 clove, minced garlic
Freshly ground black pepper

Process: fit a fine mesh strainer over a large bowl or sink. Using a spiralizer with a thin noodle attachment, spiralize the cucumber into thin strands. Place in the strainer, sprinkle with a ½ teaspoonful of salt and toss around to mix thoroughly. Allow the noodles to stand for about 30 minutes.

Whisk the lemon zest, oil, lemon juice, and garlic together with the remaining salt in a large bowl. Season with pepper, toss in the dill blossoms as your stir and set aside.

When the noodles are ready, add them to the mix and toss gently to coat. Taste and if need be, season with more salt. Serve immediately.

Dill’s monetary value and fame may have reduced drastically over the centuries. However, its appeal in the culinary world has not.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food

Chicory Benefits For Your Health

June 19, 2019

Any visitor to New Orleans usually gets an obligatory cup of the city’s chicory coffee. Chicory also known as blue sailor’s succor or sugarloaf is a perennial herb featuring bright blue flowers. It is native to India, Europe, and Egypt but has been domesticated in North America and other regions of the world. You are likely to stumble upon the plant growing along roadsides and other uncultivated areas especially in places with limestone soils.

Chicory looks like a dandelion in many aspects including featuring a rosette of toothed basal leaves and a deep taproot. However, unlike dandelion, it has a hairy flower stalk with small clasping leaves.

According to a renaissance theory known as the doctrine of signatures that outlines a plant’s appearance and its healing properties, chicory’s milky sap is said to regulate milk flow in nursing mothers. The blue flowers and their tendency to open in the morning and close at noon indicate that the plant is ideal for treating eye infections. In addition, its leaves can be made into a poultice and used to calm swellings.

During the 2nd century, Galen, a popular physician of the time, fondly referred to chicory as “friend of the liver”. In contemporary studies, research shows that chicory has the potential of increasing the flow of bile, which is helpful in treating gallstones. Lab tests also indicate that chicory extracts have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and mild sedative properties.

Prevents cancer
Chicory has been indicated for helping to reduce tumor growth in various cancer studies. Emerging evidence shows that the plant contains fructans which have antioxidant and anti-tumor properties. According to a report by Dr. Marcel Roberfroid of Université Catholique de Louvain in Belgium, chicory is rich in polyphenols, and phytochemicals which have a positive effect on preventing various types of cancers including colorectal and breast cancer.

Helps in digestion
Chicory is great for your digestive system as it contains inulin, a powerful prebiotic. These are good bacteria with health benefits to the host, unlike disease-causing bacteria. According to Dr. Tom Van de Wiele of Ghent University, Belgium, inulin helps in combating various digestive and intestinal problems including indigestion, reflux disease, and heartburn.

Boosts heart health
Inulin is not only good for the digestive system but also ideal for lowering bad cholesterol in the body. Bad cholesterol is one of the underlying causes of high blood pressure and atherosclerosis because it blocks blood flow when it accumulates in veins and arteries. It is also known to play a role in causing strokes and heart attacks.

Though this plant can always be found growing in the wild, with so many chicory health benefits, the plant truly deserves a place in your garden.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Musty and Culinary Sage

June 18, 2019

Common garden sage or sage is a woody, perennial plant with purple to blue blossoms that are edible. You can harvest the flowers and use them as decoration on cakes, pour hot water over them to make tea or use them to make herbal vinegar.

While there are several varieties of the shrub known as sage, this article will concentrate on salvia oficianalis or common garden sage. This is the sage you are likely to find flavoring your turkey.

Sage’s purple to white flowers are highly esteemed culinary delights. They are best harvested before they peak when they are partially open. For best results, cut them in the morning just after the dew has evaporated. In addition, the flowers are delicate and you do not want to take them through rigorous cooking to protect their fragile taste and aroma.

Fried sage blossoms and leaves

Ingredients
½ cup teaspoon baking powder
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup garbanzo flour
1 tablespoon corn starch
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup milk
1 egg
¾ cup of water
Twelve 4-inch sage stems complete with flowers and leaves
Enough oil for frying

Process: Heat the oil in a pan. Mix all the dry ingredients in a medium bowl with a whisk. In a smaller bowl, whisk wet ingredients and add the dry ingredients while you continue whisking to form a light batter.

Dip the flowers into the batter and fry in the hot oil for 2 minutes. Stir gently until they are golden brown. Remove from heat and place the blossoms on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Note: the stems are for holding as you eat the flowers and leaves.

Sage leaves, blossoms, and onion sauce

Ingredients
2 medium-sized onions
½ OZ of green sage leaves
½ OZ of fresh sage blossoms
4 teaspoons of water
1 teaspoonful of pepper and salt
1OZ of fine bread crumbs
¼ pint melted butter

Process: Chop the onions and sage leaves finely. Put them in a pan with 4 teaspoons of water. Place on low heat and simmer for ten minutes. Sprinkle the pepper, salt, and the breadcrumbs. Stir as you pour in melted butter. Chop the sage blossoms finely and toss them in as you stir. Simmer a few minutes and serve. The sauce is great with roast pork, duck or green peas.

Ultimately, these musky, evergreen shrubs with woolly leaves are so versatile that they can be eaten fresh, fried or dried.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Flowers Generally

Sage’s Medicinal Qualities Explained

June 17, 2019

Why would a man die who has sage in his garden, goes a medieval proverb. The above proverb is just one of the many ancient pieces extolling the virtues of sage. Throughout history, sage was perceived as a herb of domestic virtue and immortality. Below are sage’s medicinal qualities explained.

Salvia officinalis or sage is a romantic, woody, perennial plant in the Lamiacea or mint family. The shrub is native to the shores of the northern Mediterranean and goes by many other names including garden sage or common garden sage. While the word sage is associated with wisdom, its botanical name “salvia” means to save or to be in good health.

Basically, sage grows to about 2 feet high and has leaves varying from gray to green. Some cultivars are known to feature golden or purple leaves. The shrub flowers in early summer where it produces camphor-scented, blue to pink lavender-like flowers. Sage’s blossoms come out in whorls borne on short, upright spikes. Individual flowers have two lips and are frequented by butterflies, bees and the occasional hummingbird.

Loaded with antioxidants
Antioxidants fortify the body’s defense system against harmful free radicals linked to inflammation and chronic conditions. Sage is known to have more than 160 polyphenols that act as antioxidants. These include rosmarinic acid, rutin, caffeic acid, ellagic and chlorogenic acid. The compounds mentioned above are ideal for combating cancer and improving brain functioning.

One study concentrated on the effects of sage compounds on gingival fibroblasts. These are cells commonly found in the gum tissue. The study discovered that using sage extracts lowered the possibility of developing inflammation significantly.

Lowering cholesterol and blood sugar
A study involving 40 participants with diabetes and high cholesterol taking sage leaf extracts for 3 months discovered that at the end of the trial, the participants had lower fasting glucose and reduced blood sugar levels over a period of 3 months. The participants also exhibited lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels while their HDL or good cholesterol levels increased.

Antimicrobial
Sage is packed with compounds containing microbial properties. In one study, researchers realized that a sage-based mouthwash was highly effective in killing streptococcus mutans, a notorious bacteria responsible for causing dental cavities. Other studies have established that sage extracts are ideal for treating dental abscesses, throat infections, and mouth ulcers.

In keeping with the tradition of ancient wisdom, you need not suffer from common ailments as long as you have sage in your backyard. So, how about you order yours now!

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Beneficial Properties of Flowers

Chicory On Your Plate And In Your Cup

June 15, 2019

Chicory is often referred to as blue dandelion due to its similarity to dandelion. The plant has edible roots, leaves, and flowers. Though chicory is a close cousin of the dandelion, chicory’s flowers are more intense compared to dandelion blossoms. So, what does chicory taste like? Well, it has a bitter and spicy taste which tends to mellow when cooked.

Generally, chicory blooms during summer and continues flowering until early fall. The herb is very hardy and can be found thriving in places where flowers are least likely to occur including highway medians, gravel-filled areas and overgrown edges of fields where plants rarely make it.

Here are chicory recipes:

Chicory flowers and leaves salad

Ingredients
1 cup chicory leaves
1 cup chicory flowers
Lettuce
Sweet peppers
Watermelon radish
2-4 small beets
A medium-sized cucumber

Process: boil, peel and chop the beets. Wash the chicory flowers and leaves as well as the cucumber, lettuce and sweet peppers as well as the watermelon radish. Chop them, toss in the beets and mix thoroughly. Enjoy your salad.

Chicory infusion/coffee
Chicory infusion, commonly known as chicory coffee has been around for years. It is an excellent drink that helps in reducing your caffeine intake and is also a highly refreshing beverage.

Basically, regular coffee consists of coffee beans, roasted, ground and brewed to make coffee. On average, a cup of coffee contains about 90 milligrams of caffeine though this can vary based on various factors. Consuming high amounts of caffeine is bad for your health as it comes with negative effects including anxiety, restlessness, palpitations, nausea, and insomnia.

On the other hand, chicory is a caffeine-free beverage which makes it an ideal coffee substitute for people intending to cut down on caffeine intake.

Up to date, no one knows exactly when people started using roasted chicory roots as a regular coffee substitute. While there are records indicating that wild chicory was being used as a coffee substitute in colonial America, it is only in France where the herb’s use was well documented during the Continental Blockade in 1808.

Though the use of chicory as a coffee substitute declined when the war ended, New Orleans did not slow down on their love for this plant. Today, you can rest assured that a café in this region will serve you a delicious chicory drink just as it did centuries ago.

To make the chicory infusion, wash the roots thoroughly and rinse well with clean water. Place in the sun to dry or pat dry with a kitchen towel. Using a sharp knife, cut the roots into cubes, lay them on a baking sheet and bake them in your oven at 350F until they turn golden brown.

Remove from heat and allow to cool. When sufficiently cooled down, put the chicory cubes into your coffee grinder and grind to the same coarseness as regular coffee. To make the brew, use the same process as you use to make coffee.

From the uses outlined above, chicory is a great culinary delight you should definitely try out.

Comments: 0 Posted by: Florist Ephy Categories: Edible Flowers - Flowers as Food