We all know that flowers are an important décor for the dinner table which gives a classical and timeless effect. It is traditional in many occasions - specially wedding or anniversary or may be a romantic date; but makes a soulful ambience. But do we know that there are certain flowers which we can eat and enjoy! Do we have actually come across that there are some flowers which have medicinal or health benefits to us. Yes there are some and surprisingly they all bloom in those trees where vegetables or fruits grow.
Here are some and learn the benefits:
1. Mango Flower: Not just leaves even mango flower is too used for decoration and is edible. Mango flowers are dried for floral tea (free from caffeine!). These flowers are highly beneficial in terms of health. The juice extracted from mango flowers are used to cure diabetes, cholesterol-related issues, heat exhaustion, diarrhoea and dehydration. Just soak the mango flower in the water overnight and then next day at morning filter the juice and consume. Even this filtered juice can be used for ear drop and nosebleeds. Mango flowers are rich in carotenoids and Vitamin B complex which shows antioxidant properties. One interesting fact is these mango flowers when dried and burned are used as natural mosquito repellant.
2. Drumstick Flower: When the vegetable is miracle, the flower has to be. This particular flower is a perfect tonic for the reproductive system and beat a number of ailments like oligospermia, infertility and erectile function as well as gastrointestinal problems like colitis. This flower is used for making chutneys, accompanies with vegetables or prepared with same. The drink prepared from these flowers is a natural route for healthy sex drive which is lagged nowadays. Drumsticks are boiled with milk, cardamom powder and sugar/jaggery and stirred continuously and cooked till thick.
3. Papaya Flower: Papaya flowers are the most potential herbal remedy. It is dense in all nutrients and antioxidants that prevents strokes caused by free radicals and improper blood circulation. The decoction prepared from this flower helps to lose weight, metabolism as well as lower the insulin levels in diabetes.
4. Pumpkin (Squash) Flower: Being a rich source of vitamin B9, pumpkin flowers are full of health benefits. Pumpkin flowers are known to be super-healthy since it enhances immunity, rid off cold and flu and reduces the risk of strokes. Even these flowers can also improve the sperm quality of a man while assisting with infertility issues. It also accelerates the rate of absorption of iron in the body so that it is ready to defend itself against any infection.
5. Fennel Flower: Like the fennel seeds, the fennel flowers provides a great and worthy flavour to the food. They are used in various cuisines of cooking to give unique taste. Fennel flowers have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Fennel flowers eases menstrual symptoms, improves mental health, benefit breastfeeding women, and have cancer-fighting properties.
6. Neem Flower: Neem flowers are used to treat anorexia, nausea, belching and intestinal worms. As per Ayurveda, neem leaves are considered good for the eyes and useful as part of management of skin disease and headaches. They are used in aromatherapy because of their calming effect. The flower is used for reducing bile and controls phlegm.