Flowers can play a role in good health
Consider these botanicals for a better mood
Does your mood lighten as soon as you walk into a florist shop or garden?
Flowers have many properties that promote healing and feelings of well-being. So it’s no wonder there’s a long tradition of sending bouquets to people in the hospital.
Blooms help many of us in several ways. One study showed that the color of flowers — especially yellow ones — often make people happier and more relaxed.
Other research has explored how nature scents can increase positive emotions, enhance feelings of comfort and decrease anxiety. This might be because our sense of smell has a particular role in memories and our connection with others.
“There’s some truth to the old saying about stopping to smell the roses,” says Jillian Ford, NP, a mental health nurse practitioner at PeaceHealth in Eugene, Oregon. “When you slow down, you can more fully appreciate the powerful effect that flowers and other nature have on you.”
Whatever the season, you can take note of how you feel when you’re around flowers — and not just to look at or smell. You can use some flowers and herbs in teas or salads. And still others can be found in supplements.
5 flowers that help
Hundreds of botanicals can be beneficial. Here are just a handful of common flowers to consider for your home and garden:
1. Chamomile. This is a small white and yellow flower. It has the reputation for being used in tea, but it can show up in other products as well. People think it has a calming effect and may support sleep among other things, though more research is needed to say for sure.
2. Echinacea. This pink to purple flower is used in various ways to boost immunity. You’ll often see it as a supplement or as an ingredient in cough drops or cold remedies.
3. St. John’s Wort. This yellow flower may be best known as a supplement to help treat depression. It can be dangerous if you take it along with certain medications. Because of this, use it only with your doctor's go-ahead.
4. Rosemary. This bushy herb has small white, blue or purple flowers. It’s often used in cooking and baking. It can also be used in soaps or salves. Research has found that it helps with memory, reduces anxiety and depression, and improves sleep quality.
5. Lavender. This popular herb comes in a range of purple hues. It’s used in many different things, including soaps, lotions, candles, drinks and various foods. Studies show that lavender in supplements and aromatherapy products can ease anxiety and promote better sleep.
“It’s important to keep in mind that just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s always safe.” says Ford. “If you’re interested in exploring the use of these or other plants for health, be sure to talk to your primary care provider first.”
What to keep in mind
Here are some other things to keep in mind when it comes to harnessing the power of flowers:
Everyone’s unique. What works for you might not work for someone else. Age and size can also make a difference so be cautious about children’s exposure to flowers or scented items.
- Allergies. Pollen or the scent of flowers can trigger allergies — sometimes severe reactions, including migraines. Before giving someone a bouquet or a flower-type item, ask if they have any sensitivities.
- Medication conflicts. If you’re on a special diet or taking any medications, check with your doctor before trying any herbal supplements or remedies.
- Moderation. A little can go a long way for almost anything. Start low and slow if you’re experimenting with home-grown teas, infused water or edible flowers.
- Quality sources. Depending on what you use them for, pay attention to where you get flowers or supplements. If you’ll be eating, drinking or rubbing them on your skin, avoid anything that has been exposed to chemicals or pollution.
“It’s thrilling to discover things in nature that can improve our health,” says Ford. “Flowers and other plants are incredibly healing when used in the right ways.”
