Flower Power: Edible Flowers With Medicinal Benefits

Get flower power: edible flowers with medicinal benefits and the scientific research behind them!

Experience the therapeutic powers of flowers. The innate richness of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids present in these blossoms is a must-have for your daily self-care routine.

If you’re curious about reading more about medicinal flowers but are interested in ones you could grow in your garden or forage in nature, or buy fresh online, we have guides for you too.

Flower	Potential Uses	Important Considerations
Calendula (Pot marigold)**	Wound healing, skin inflammation, eczema [Limited scientific evidence]	May interact with certain medications.
Chamomile**	Anxiety, relaxation, sleep support, digestive issues [Some scientific evidence]	Generally safe, but may cause allergic reactions in some people.
Echinacea**	Colds, flu, upper respiratory infections [Conflicting scientific evidence]	May interact with certain medications, not recommended for long-term use.
Hibiscus**	High blood pressure, cholesterol, urinary tract infections [Limited scientific evidence]	May interact with certain medications, not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Lavender**	Anxiety, relaxation, sleep support, headaches [Some scientific evidence]	Generally safe for topical use, consult a healthcare professional before ingesting.
Rose**	Anti-inflammatory properties, may help with pain and digestion [Limited scientific evidence]	Rose hips (fruit) generally safe for consumption, rose petals may cause allergic reactions in some people.
St. John’s Wort**	Depression [Some scientific evidence]	May interact with many medications, consult a healthcare professional before use.
Elderflower**	Colds, flu, coughs, fevers [Limited scientific evidence]	May interact with certain medications, not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Yarrow**	Wound healing, diarrhea, menstrual cramps [Limited scientific evidence]	May interact with certain medications, not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Click on the flower name for the link to scientific studies.

Arnica:

Arnica montana, a flowering plant, is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly in topical applications for pain and inflammation. Its efficacy is often attributed to sesquiterpene lactones, primarily helenalin, which are believed to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines. Arnica is commonly used to relieve muscle aches, bruises, and sprains. While it has a long history of traditional use, it’s crucial to note that arnica should generally not be ingested due to its potential toxicity. However, in highly diluted homeopathic preparations, it is considered safe. Scientific studies have shown some promising results regarding arnica’s ability to reduce pain and swelling, especially in cases of osteoarthritis and post-surgical bruising, though more research is often needed to solidify these findings.

Calendula:

Calendula officinalis, or pot marigold, has a long history of medicinal use, primarily due to its anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and antimicrobial properties. These effects are largely attributed to its rich composition of bioactive compounds, including triterpenoids, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Specifically, triterpenoids have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity, while flavonoids act as potent antioxidants, protecting cells from oxidative stress. Research suggests that calendula can promote wound healing by increasing blood flow to the affected area and stimulating the formation of new tissue. Furthermore, studies have explored calendula’s potential in treating various skin conditions, such as dermatitis and burns, and in providing relief from oral mucositis caused by cancer treatments. While traditional use is extensive, modern scientific investigations continue to explore and validate the therapeutic potential of this versatile plant.

Chamomile:

Chamomile, particularly German chamomile (Matricaria recutita), is valued for its diverse medicinal properties. Its calming effects are often attributed to apigenin, a flavonoid that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, inducing relaxation.Chamomile also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, primarily due to compounds like bisabolol, which can inhibit inflammatory mediators. Research suggests chamomile may be beneficial in treating anxiety, insomnia, and certain digestive issues. Additionally, it’s used topically for skin conditions, with studies indicating its potential to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation. While generally considered safe, it’s important to be aware of potential allergic reactions, especially for those with sensitivities to plants in the Asteraceae family.

Lavender:

Lavender, specifically Lavandula angustifolia, is celebrated for its diverse medicinal properties, supported by a growing body of scientific research. Its calming aroma, attributed to compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, effectively reduces anxiety and stress, as evidenced by studies demonstrating its positive impact on preoperative anxiety and generalized anxiety disorder. Moreover, lavender has proven beneficial for sleep improvement, particularly in individuals experiencing mild insomnia. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties contribute to wound healing and skin health, with research indicating accelerated healing of burns and other skin injuries. Additionally, lavender oil has shown potential for pain relief, particularly in headaches and muscle pain, and is being investigated for its neuroprotective effects. While generally safe, lavender can cause allergic reactions in some individuals and should be diluted before topical application. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare professional before use.

Echinacea

Echinacea, a widely used herbal remedy, is primarily recognized for its potential to bolster the immune system. Scientific investigations suggest it may stimulate immune responses by enhancing the activity of immune cells, though its efficacy in preventing or treating the common cold remains a topic of ongoing debate, with studies yielding mixed results. The plant also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, potentially contributing to its traditional use in wound healing and skin conditions. Furthermore, Echinacea is rich in antioxidants, which can protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. However, the variability in chemical composition due to species, growing conditions, and preparation methods can influence its medicinal effects. Potential allergic reactions, especially in those with daisy family allergies, and interactions with certain medications, particularly immunosuppressants, necessitate caution. Therefore, consulting a healthcare professional before using Echinacea is crucial, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.

Elderflower:

Elderflower, derived from the Sambucus nigra plant, possesses a range of medicinal properties supported by scientific research. Rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, it bolsters immune function and has shown promise in inhibiting viral replication, particularly influenza, potentially shortening cold and flu durations. Its anti-inflammatory components contribute to traditional uses for respiratory congestion and sinus relief, while its antioxidant activity supports overall health. Studies have explored its antiviral mechanisms and clinical effectiveness, though further research is needed. Importantly, proper preparation is essential, as raw elderberries contain potentially harmful compounds. While generally safe, allergies and drug interactions are possible, necessitating consultation with a healthcare professional before medicinal use.

Hibiscus:

Hibiscus, particularly Hibiscus sabdariffa, is valued for its diverse medicinal properties, largely stemming from its rich content of antioxidants, including flavonoids, anthocyanins, and organic acids. Research indicates hibiscus extracts may contribute to cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, potentially through its diuretic and lipid-lowering effects. Studies have also explored its potential in managing metabolic syndrome and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, demonstrating positive impacts on glucose and lipid metabolism. Hibiscus exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and has been traditionally used to address digestive issues and promote kidney health. Furthermore, its high antioxidant content may contribute to its potential role in protecting against oxidative stress and related chronic diseases. While generally considered safe, individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications should consult with a healthcare professional before regular consumption.

St. John’s Wort:

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is primarily known for its antidepressant properties, which are attributed to its active compounds, particularly hypericin and hyperforin. These compounds are believed to affect various neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, though the exact mechanisms are still being investigated. Clinical studies have shown St. John’s Wort to be effective in treating mild to moderate depression, sometimes comparable to standard antidepressant medications. Additionally, it has been used for wound healing and has shown antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s crucial to be aware of potential drug interactions, as St. John’s Wort can induce liver enzymes that affect the metabolism of numerous medications, including birth control pills, anticoagulants, and immunosuppressants. Therefore, it should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Rose:

Roses, particularly Rosa damascena and Rosa canina, possess a variety of medicinal properties attributed to their rich phytochemical composition. Rose petals and rosehips contain antioxidants, including flavonoids and vitamin C, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects. Rosehip extracts have demonstrated potential in reducing pain associated with osteoarthritis and improving skin health due to their high vitamin C content and essential fatty acids. Furthermore, rose oil and rose water have been used for their calming and mood-enhancing properties, potentially due to their effects on the nervous system. Research also indicates that rose extracts exhibit antimicrobial activity, and have been used in traditional medicine to help with digestive issues. Ongoing scientific investigations continue to explore the full therapeutic potential of various rose species.

Yarrow:

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has a long history of medicinal use, primarily attributed to its anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and hemostatic properties. Its bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, and polyacetylenes, contribute to these effects. Sesquiterpene lactones, like achillin, are believed to play a role in yarrow’s anti-inflammatory action. Traditionally, yarrow has been used to stop bleeding, promote wound healing, and relieve muscle spasms. Studies suggest it can stimulate blood clotting and reduce inflammation, supporting its traditional use for wound care. Additionally, yarrow’s diaphoretic properties have been utilized to reduce fevers, and its antispasmodic effects have been employed to alleviate digestive discomfort. However, individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family should exercise caution when using yarrow.

What is your favorite flower to work with? I love chamomile & while it’s not on the top 10 list, I love marshmallow. I drink flower teas daily, and use my marshmallow tincture daily, but I also want to learn more about floral waters. One of my favorite ways to enjoy medicinal flowers is infused in honey.