By: Shahrzad Taavoni, LA.c, Dipl OM, MACHM, B.S.
Edible flowers are a vibrant and healthful addition to any meal, offering a range of benefits for both the body and mind. Flowers like dianthus, chive blossoms, dahlias, and bachelor buttons, alongside nasturtiums, marigolds, borage, and sunflower petals, are rich in nutrients. Many contain vitamins, antioxidants, and compounds that support immunity, reduce inflammation, and promote overall wellness. For example, dianthus has been used traditionally to aid digestion and reduce inflammation, while chive flowers add a mild onion flavor to dishes while providing immune-boosting properties. Dahlias are rich in prebiotics, supporting gut health, and bachelor buttons contain anthocyanins that protect the heart and fight inflammation. Gem Marigold contains lutein known to improve eye health and reduce the risks of macular degeneration.
The digestive benefits of edible flowers are well known, with options like aromatic anise hyssop and borage often used to soothe the stomach and support healthy digestion. Their calming qualities, such as those found in dianthus and bachelor buttons, also help reduce stress, making them a beautiful addition to main dishes, teas and desserts.
Gardening itself offers significant health benefits, creating a connection to nature that promotes relaxation, mindfulness, and a sense of accomplishment. Spending time outdoors while tending to flowers can reduce stress, boost mood, and provide light physical activity that supports cardiovascular health and mobility. Growing flowers like nasturtiums, dianthus, and bachelor buttons not only enhances the garden’s beauty but also creates a calming and inspiring space.
Edible flowers not only nourish the body but also invite nature into your garden by attracting butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Flowers like anise hyssop, borage, bachelor buttons, and marigolds provide nectar and pollen that support these vital creatures, helping to sustain biodiversity. Watching butterflies dance among the blooms adds joy, beauty, and a sense of wonder to your outdoor space, turning your garden into a vibrant and lively sanctuary.
By growing edible flowers at home, you ensure a fresh, pesticide-free harvest and gain access to varieties not commonly found in stores. Flowers like borage, chive blossoms, anise hyssop and gem marigolds are easy to grow and thrive in most home gardens. Nasturtiums, for instance, flourish in pots or poor soils, while bachelor buttons and borage self-seed for effortless regrowth. Dahlias and dianthus bring vibrant color to garden beds and double as versatile culinary ingredients.
Incorporating edible flowers into your meals and lifestyle creates a holistic approach to wellness, combining the beauty of nature with the healing benefits of nutrient-rich foods. Whether used in salads, teas, or garnishes, these flowers elevate both health and happiness, making them a delightful way to care for body and soul.
About the Author
Shahrzad Taavoni holds a dual master’s degree in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine from Yo San University in Los Angeles, earned in 2007. She also earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Maryland, College Park.
Shahrzad offers personalized acupuncture treatments, herbal remedies, and lifestyle guidance to support your health and wellness journey. Located in Towson, Maryland, she serves the Baltimore region and provides complimentary 15-minute phone consultations to discuss your needs.
To schedule an appointment, call 443-982-6159 or visit www.acupunctureintowson.
