Florals to Eat? Amazing! Everything you need to know about the New Food Trend
Valentine's Day Idea: Surprise her with edible flowers! A new study shows that certain compounds in edible flowers offer neuroprotective benefits and also have 10 times higher concentrations of antioxidants compared to fruits and vegetables. We present the beauty and brain benefits of 5 different edible flowers.
Flowers are not only beautiful to look at, they can also taste really good! A new study shows that edible flowers are not only an optical highlight on our plates, but also offer health benefits. So why not put flowers on the plate and enjoy the many benefits? We present the beauty and brain benefits of 5 different edible flowers.
Dandelion
The entire dandelion, from root to flower, is edible and full of nutrients. The flowers and stems can be eaten raw or cooked, and the root is typically consumed as a tea.
Positive effects on the brain: Dandelion is rich in beta-carotene and polyphenols - antioxidants that protect us against cell damage and reduce inflammation in the body. The plant substances also contain a lot of lutein, a neuroprotective substance that also improves eye health.
Positive effects on beauty: The flower contains a lot of vitamin A, which prevents acne. Polyphenols and other antioxidants improve skin health.
Watercress
Both its leaves and flowers are considered edible and can be enjoyed raw or cooked.
Positive effects on the brain: It is rich in vitamin C, which improves our cognitive function, converts dopamine to serotonin and reduces stress by reducing cortisol production.
Positive effects on beauty: Vitamin C also helps to tighten and brighten our skin, as well as protect against pollution and free radicals.
Pansy
This flower is actually often used to decorate salads and desserts. Ever thought of eating the decoration?
Positive effects on the brain: Pansies, or pansies in botany, are rich in phenolic compounds such as quercetin, a neuroprotective substance with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Positive effects on beauty: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help our bodies scavenge free radicals that can lead to premature ageing.
Marigold
A versatile flower commonly prepared as a tea or used as a garnish.
Positive effects on the brain: Calendula is rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols and carotenoids, which have anti-inflammatory benefits. It can help delay our cognitive decline.
Positive effects on beauty: It contains vitamin E, which can reduce redness and irritation and perhaps reduce sun damage from UVB rays. In addition, the vitamin C helps to lighten our skin.
Lavender
This well-known flower can be consumed fresh or dried and is often brewed to make tea or added to baked goods.
Postive effects on the brain: These studies suggest that lavender treats certain neurological conditions, acts as a mood stabiliser, improves cognitive function and may contain neuroprotective properties.
Positive effects on beauty: Like other edible flowers, lavender contains potent antioxidants that help repair our skin and slow the visible signs of ageing.
