Dishes with flowers are almost to pretty to eat. However, combining food and flowers goes way back. The Romans did it for decoration, while Chinese used them for the supposed health benefits. Now it turns out they were right: flowers are healthy!
Science proves that petals are good for your gut, skin and hair, according to Women’s Health Magazine. A study published in the Journal of Food Science found that chewing on roses, violets and nasturtiums helps prevent chronic diseases. While the petals from peony, lavender and hibiscus help with heart disease, nervous disorders and diabetes.
“Flowers are packed full of nutrients and antioxidants. They are very similar to vegetables in that the more vibrant the colour, the higher they are in density of nutrients and antioxidants.” – explains Eve Kalinik Women’s Health’s expert nutritionist.
“Flowers such as dandelion root can be used for supporting natural detoxification, whereas chamomile can help those who suffer from sleep irregularities,” says Eve. “But be wary of flowers you don’t know as some can cause more harm than good.”
Flowers also support collagen production, which is essential for healthy hair, skin and nails.
Healthy & tasteful
As an extra bonus it turns out that edible flowers are not only healthy, but also tasty. Researchers from the University of Pisa invited 78 tasters to judge the taste of 12 flowers. Tasters were also asked to determine which known food each of the flowers resembled. Nasturtium, Floss Flower and the Viola wittrockiana turned out to be the most tasteful ones. Check below the whole list of edible flowers.
Picture header: lavenderandlovage.com
