A Study Shows that Edible Flowers contain Health Benefits. A dark brown chocolate cake looks very pretty with colorful edible flowers. Even a cheesecake with a little edible pink flower looks more appetizing. The same goes for a cup of tea and a plate of salad. In some cultures, fresh flowers are also feasted as snacks, especially by kids. Thanks to the nectar, children are said to love them for their sweet taste.
Nowadays, more people, especially chefs, use edible flowers for cooking delicacies. They are loved not just for their aesthetic properties but also for the health benefits of palatable flowers. A study has shown that they help fight disease and promote golden health.
According to MDPI, the new study included data on more than 250 types of plants. It looked at multiple edible flowers used in some Mediterranean Sea countries, their inclusion in various traditional forms of food and medicine, and their impact on health.
It was seen that edible flowers are placed as functional nutrition for their nutraceutical properties and their content of antioxidant compounds. They can play an important role in promoting health and also in preventing different types of diseases.
Health Shots reached Mohini Dongre, Senior Dietitian at Narayana Hospital, Gurugram, to locate out which edible flowers have fitness benefits.
Also read: how to draw a rose for kids
Edible Flowers Help Fight Disease
Elderflowers are effective in combating degenerative diseases such as cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases, as well as cancer and diabetes, according to MDPI. Other interesting edible flowers include the false acacia (black locust), and its flowers are rich in polyphenols with antioxidant and antitumor properties.
They have been used to treat the flu, induce calm, or improve general health. Dongre shared that plants such as Daucus carota, mycorrhiza kurroa, bombax ceiba, and Andrographis paniculata help with cardiovascular diseases.
Flowers Commonly Found in the UK have Health Benefits
We have seen pink, yellow, and lavender flowers on the plates. It’s time to know their characters and their health gifts. According to the expert, calendula helps heal bruises, rose reduces the risk of heart disease, lavender is known to be good for hair growth, and lily helps prevent chronic headaches.
How to Eat Edible Flowers?
You may be wondering if you should wash them and eat them like fruit or if they should be eaten with other foods. The expert suggested that the edible flowers can be used in sugar syrups, and the rose petals can also be used in candy.
Avoid Eating Raw Edible Flowers
As a child, you may have eaten petals. But it is not the best idea to eat raw edible flowers as you might get infections after taking them. Dongre said they could cause adverse reactions, including irritation and ulcers in the mouth and skin, fungal infections, vomiting, diarrhea, and even seizures. T
he next time you skip edible flowers from your meal, think about all the health benefits and why you shouldn’t treat them as a flavor enhancer or ingredient to beautify your plate.
Chamomile
This small, daisy-like flower that smells faintly of apple has been used for centuries as a natural remedy. It is often dried and steeped to make a tea loaded with antioxidants and calming properties. This little flower can reduce the risks of heart disease and cancer while aiding digestion and sleep.
Mint
Mint flowers and leaves provide a fresh hint of flavor to vegetables, fruit salads, desserts, and even sauces. This common herb is known to aid digestion and soothe stomach ailments.
Pinkish
Surprisingly, rose petals have a delicious taste that can enhance a medley of drinks and fruit dishes. In addition to being rich in vitamins and antioxidants, this popular edible flower has incredible health benefits that combat indigestion, constipation, urinary problems, stress, headaches, and arthritis.
