Flowers That Heal Pt. 3

G'morning all...

Today I am going to finish sharing the healing properties of flowers. If you have missed the first 2 parts of this post, feel free to click on the "natural healing posts" on the right of this page.

~Peace~

Flowers That Heal 3rd And Final Part In Series

Hops (humulus lupulus)~This vine produces pale green flower heads called strobiles. These have been employed since ancient times for their sedative properties. An infusion or tincture is a fast-acting antidote for nervous tension or anxiety. Hops release tension, calming the mind for a restful night's sleep, and stimulate the stomach glands, aiding digestion. They alleviate intestinal cramps and reduce flatulence. A compress can relieve skin inflammations.

Meadowsweet (filipendula ulmaria)~Also know as "Queen of the Meadows" this sweetly-scented wild flower thrive in damp meadows and waysides. The flowering tops contain salicylates, a natural form of aspirin. An infusion of the flowers will bring the benefits of aspirin, while protecting the stomach from ulceration. Meadowsweet is used to treat arthritis, rheumatism and joint pain. Not only does it reduce inflammation, it also neutralizes acids that accumulate in painful joints. The flowers are a gentle but effective digestive remedy. They reduce acid indigestion, gastritis and heartburn. Meadowsweet is also healing for peptic ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome.

Heather (calluna vulgaris)~Heaths moors, and mountains are clad with lilac heather during the summer. Their tiny, bell-shaped flowers are rich in nectar and attract bees. The resulting honey is delicately flavored and is believed to be beneficial for fortifying the body after illness. Heather flowers have antiseptic properties that disinfect the urinary tract. Heather tones the bladder and kidneys. A poultice of the dried flowers is a useful winter treatment for rheumatic aches and pains, and for stimulating a sluggish circulation.

Marigold (calendula officinalis)~The bright orange flower heads of marigold are cleansing, strengthening and detoxifying. The antiseptic flowers are valuable for treating fungal infections such as candida, and viruses including flu and herpes. Marigold reduces lymphatic congestion and strengthens the immune system. It brings out toxins during chickenpox and measles. Marigold aids inflammatory digestive disorders including gastroenteritis and ulcers. It reduces period pains and regulates the menstrual cycle. It is also  an excellent first aid ointment, healing burns, insect bites and corns, calluses and varicose veins.

Honeysuckle (lonicera periclymenum)~The scent of honeysuckle calms nervous tension and promotes a sense of well-being. The dried flowers can be added to potpourri herbal pillows for a restful night's sleep. A syrup or infusion of flowers eases colds, fevers aches and pains. The petals contain salicylic acid, a natural form of aspirin, which is responsible for it pain relieving action. It also has a reputation for relieving asthma, and is a good lotion for minor skin infections.