Flowers That Heal Pt. 1

G'morning my wonderful fellow herb lovers!

In prior posts I have shared with you the healing properties of berries, leaves and herbs; today I am going to share the healing properties of flowers.

Flowers That Heal

Red Clover (trifolium pratense)~Red clover flowers have remarkable health benefits for older women. it is often prescribed in herbal treatments for breast and ovarian cancer. It is rich in isoflavones, which have phyto-estrogenic activity. Menopausal women find it alleviates symptoms associated with falling estrogen levels. Clover can be applied as a compress to relieve arthritis and gout. Crushed florets of this fresh flowers make a natural remedy for bites and stings.

Elder (sambucus nigra)~The creamy florets of elder are  common sight in May. The flowers have versatile healing properties, giving the shrub its old country name of "Nature's medicine chest." Its antiviral properties and expectorant action make it n effective treatment for respiratory ailments. It also helps to fight infections by nourishing the body's immune system. Elderflower are believed to balance mucus secretions in the respiratory tract, making it a valuable remedy for chronic sufferers of hay fever, asthma and allergic rhinitis. An infusion is diuretic, stimulating urine production and balancing body fluids. The flowers make a soothing anti-inflammatory facial cleanser.

Tansy (tanacetum vulgare)~The late summer flowers of tansy are like little yellow buttons. traditionally, the flowers were incorporated into cakes and puddings and were served to children to expel thread and round worms. The plant's potent insecticidal properties can make it hazardous though and tansy is now only administered under the supervision of a qualified herbalist. Applied as a poultice, tansy can be used to treat rheumatic joints. It is also very helpful in ridding the house of infestation of fleas or lice.

St. John's Wort (hypericum perforatum)~The golden, star-like flowers of St. John's Wort stud waysides in summer. The flowering tops can be made into healing infusions, tinctures and, for external use, infused oil, cream r lotion. It is an effective herbal antidepressant and helps to educe anxiety and nervous tension.  The flowers have potent antiviral properties, which have been valuable  in the treatment of hepatitis B and C, and HIV and Aids. Externally, St. John's Wort soothes cuts and burns. Its antiseptic action kills germs and promotes tissue repair, reducing the risk of scarring. Neuralgia and sciatic benefit  from the analgesic action f St. John's Wort.

Dog Rose (rosa canina)~Perfumed rose petals have many medicinal virtues. Rose cools fevers and reduces catarrh and bronchial congestion. Its diuretic action increases urine production and stimulates the immune system. After a course of antibiotics, rose helps to balance the stomach's population of "good" bacteria. Rose petals relieve  heavy, painful periods and are believed to aid female fertility. Rose promotes tissue repair and reduces inflammation.