Flowers are the prettiest part of spring. The flower industry is a 34.3 billion dollar market. There are 15,307 florists in operation in the US alone. Flowers were the last to evolved on Earth, making them the universal late bloomers. Flowers are the most popular gardening plant in the US since the 1970s. They may be pretty, but they are doing more than acting as eye candy. Like ‘Top Five Herbs For Your Garden,’ we will only focus on the top five in that particular industry.
Roses
Roses are the number one most planted flower in the country. It makes up 35% of overall floral sales. Roses are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, antidepressants, and anti-inflammatory properties. The smell of roses has been known to reduce stress and anxiety. Rose oil is a natural treatment for ulcers, nausea, and UTIs. Rose petal tea can help clean the gallbladder and clear up bronchial infections.
Daisies
Even though this is considered by many to be a weed, it doesn’t make it any less helpful. There are seven species of daisies in the Asteraceae family. The most common in the US being Bellis Perennis (English Daisy). Daisies also contain triterpenes and saponins which regulate the immune system. Soak bandages in daisy water to relieve pain associated with wounds and bruises. In women, they can treat swollen breasts and regulate periods.
Lilac
Lilacs have many symbolic meanings in many cultures. Lilacs can mean innocence, purity, and spirituality just to name a few. They are also the hardiest and most fragrant flowers. Because of there powerful smell, they have been used in aromatherapy for centuries. It was once used as a treatment for malaria. If ingested it can get rid of parasitic worms. Lilac is great at healing skin ailments like rashes.
Tulip
Tulips are the official sign that spring is here. There are 150 types, and 3,000 varieties, of tulips. Besides there rich colors they are known for having perfectly symmetrical buds. Tulips have diuretic and antiseptic properties. It is a common ingredient in lotion and creams because it heals dry skin. It has been seen to provide relief for bug bites and rashes.
Iris
Iris flowers are commonly used for decorations in floral arrangements. Pollinating bugs love their long outer petals. They may be pretty, but they have a lot of health benefits to them. It is great to soften the skin and curing dandruff. It has been proven to treat Rheumatism. When consumed it can treat Abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. When made into a juice it can be used to treat dropsy. It can also alleviate peptic ulcers, chronic diarrhea, and bad breath.