Edible flowers and herbs: they are so good for your health

In spring it blooms in gardens, on balconies and outdoors. So far, flowers and herbs have only been nice to look at, but this time we should pick them and put them on bread or sprinkle them over salads. We reveal what makes flowers so healthy.

Tired of the usual selection of herbs in the supermarket or at the weekly market? In spring we only have to keep our eyes open a little to find delicious flowers and herbs in nature or in our own garden. Whether on bread, in a salad or as a decoration on the pasta plate: flowers round off every dish and give it a great look. But which flowers are edible? And what healthy effects do they have?

These flowers are edible

  • Calendula
    There are essential oils and flavonoids in its flower, which together have an antimicrobial and antispasmodic effect. They help against fever and inflammation and strengthen the immune system . The marigold tastes slightly salty and bitter.
  • Chamomile and mint
    These two plants also help against inflammation and fever and stimulate the immune system. Chamomile tastes mild while mint is powerful and cooling.
  • Nasturtium
    It contains mustard oil, which has an antimicrobial effect and acts against respiratory and urinary infections. The cress is rich in vitamin C and magnesium and tastes like mustard.
  • Dandelion
    The plant is rich in vitamins A, B, C and D as well as the minerals potassium and calcium. It has a detoxifying and diuretic effect, which is good for the liver, bile and bladder. Dandelion tastes tart and spicy and depending on its age, it has a bitter aftertaste.
  • Daisies
    The flowers provide plenty of vitamin C. Their taste is similar to that of lamb’s lettuce. They are slightly nutty and especially young leaves are mild. The flowers are slightly bitter with a hint of chamomile.
  • Violets
    have a calming effect and strengthen the nerves. They taste pleasantly mild.
  • Nettle
    The herb contains a lot of vitamin C. The flavonoids and potassium ensure a draining effect. Young nettles have a fresh taste, while older plants contain a lot of tannic acid and taste less pleasant.
  • Rose blossoms
    The scent of rose blossoms puts you in a good mood and relaxes you. The taste of edible roses is similar to the scent they give off.
  • Lavender
    flowers The purple flowers help against anxiety and stress by having a relaxing and calming effect. They also promote a good night’s sleep . Lavender tastes slightly tart and bitter.
  • Meadowfoam herb
    The herb has an analgesic effect and is used for rheumatism and other painful diseases. It also stimulates the liver and kidneys. Since the meadow smock contains mustard oil glycosides, it tastes hot and bitter.

Caution: These flowers are not edible!

Not all flowers are edible! Especially with chrysanthemums and violets , make sure that the variety is edible. Some forms can be poisonous. A flower identification book can help. Bleeding heart, delphinium, red foxglove and common laburnum are also poisonous. Lily of the valley can also B. lead to cardiac arrhythmias, dizziness, nausea and diarrhea.

Tips for collecting herbs and flowers

  1. Always pick the herbs and flowers away from busy roads , otherwise the plants may be contaminated with car exhaust fumes. Also make sure that the meadow is not a dog run area.
  2. It is also best to pick the plants in the morning , as the essential oils evaporate with increasing exposure to the sun.
  3. To avoid reaching for poisonous herbs, use an identification guide .
  4. Only take as many herbs as you need, so that the majority of plants remain. Depending on the possibility, you can also create your own wild herb bed at home.
  5. If there is no way to collect herbs and flowers in nature, you can also buy them in nurseries . Make sure they have been grown under organic conditions and have not been sprayed. Flowers from the supermarket or florist shops are not suitable for consumption.

Prepare flowers correctly

  • Before eating, remove the leaves, stem, pistil, or pollen carrier. These often taste bitter.
  • Wash the herbs and flowers gently under warm water.
  • You can preserve flowers as vinegar or syrup. Hibiscus, violet, rose and lavender blossoms are particularly suitable, as they have both an intense taste and a strong colour.

Crystal Waston MD

Crystal Waston has a degree in Cross Media Production and Publishing. At vital.de she gives everyday tips and deals with topics related to women's health, sport, and nutrition.

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