V-Day idea: Get them flowers…that they can eat!
A recent study reported that certain compounds in edible flowers offer neuroprotective benefits. Oh, and it’s also been reported that edible flowers contain 10x the concentration of antioxidants compared to fruits and veggies.
There are many types of edible flowers but, obvs, not all flowers are safe to consume—so only eat flowers that are grown for culinary use and are free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Below, we break down the beauty and brain benefits of 5 different edible flowers.
The entire dandelion plant, from root to flower, is edible and packed with nutrients. The flowers and greens can be eaten raw or cooked, and the root is typically consumed as a tea.
BENEFITS
Brain: Dandelions are rich in beta carotene and polyphenols, antioxidants that help protect against cell damage and reduce inflammation. The greens are high in lutein, a neuroprotective that also helps improve eye health.
Beauty: The flower contains lots of vitamin A, which helps prevent acne. Polyphenols and other antioxidants help improve the health of skin.
Both the leaves and flowers of this plant are edible and can be enjoyed raw or cooked.
BENEFITS
Brain: It’s rich in vitamin C, which helps improve cognitive function, convert dopamine into serotonin, and reduce stress by reducing cortisol production.
Beauty: Vitamin C also helps firm and brighten skin, as well as defend against pollution and free radicals.
These flowers are typically used to garnish salads and desserts.
BENEFITS
Brain: Pansies are rich in phenolic compounds like quercetin, a neuroprotective compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Beauty: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help prevent free radical damage, which can cause premature aging.
A versatile flower, it’s typically brewed as a tea or used as a garnish.
BENEFITS
Brain: This flower is rich in antioxidants like polyphenols and carotenoids, which have anti-inflammatory benefits. It may help delay cognitive decline.
Beauty: It contains vitamin E, which helps reduce redness and irritation and may help reduce sun damage from UVB rays. Also, its vitamin C helps brighten skin.
This well-known flower can be consumed fresh or dried and is commonly steeped to make tea or added to baked goods.
BENEFITS
Brain: These studies suggest that lavender may help treat certain neurological conditions, act as a mood stabilizer, improve cognitive function, and contain neuroprotective properties.
Beauty: Like other edible flowers, lavender contains potent antioxidants that help repair skin and slow the visible signs of aging.
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