A Review of Plants Used for Human Consumption of Flowers (Those Overlooked "Delicacies")

Abstract: Flowers are often objects of our admiration, but did you know that some flowers are also edible! In different cultures and eras, edible flowers have their own unique flavors and nutritional values. This article will take a look at common edible flowers from various regions.

盘点人类食用花卉的植物(那些被忽略的“美食”)1

Lotus

The lotus is not only beautiful but also highly nutritious. The lotus seeds and seed pods of the lotus are edible, rich in protein and carbohydrates, and can boost immunity. Lotus leaves are also a useful medicinal herb.

Rose

The rose is one of the flowers that humans have long cultivated and admired, but not everyone knows it is also edible. Rose petals have a sweet, fragrant taste and can be added directly to salads or beverages.

盘点人类食用花卉的植物(那些被忽略的“美食”)2

Jasmine

In addition to its charming fragrance, jasmine can also help treat upper respiratory problems. Jasmine can be used to make tea, which not only enhances the aroma and taste of beverages but can also treat headaches and insomnia.

Dandelion

The dandelion is a common weed, and both its flowers and roots are edible. Dandelion flowers can be added to salads or used to make pastries like dandelion honey cakes; while dandelion roots can be used to make coffee and tea.

Tulip

Tulips are widely grown in Europe, and their petals are also edible. Tulip petals are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants and can help boost the immune system.

盘点人类食用花卉的植物(那些被忽略的“美食”)3

Chrysanthemum

The chrysanthemum is a nutritious food that contains antioxidants and vitamin C. Chrysanthemums can be made into tea, pastries, and sweet drinks. Chrysanthemums also have sedative and analgesic effects and can treat mild headaches.

Violet

The violet is a small and beautiful flower with rich nutritional value and a sweet taste. Violet petals can be used to make tea or added to pastries, and can also be used to make honey cakes.

Marigold

Marigold petals are rich in yellow pigment and various vitamins. Marigolds can be made into tea, juice, or added to salads. They are not only delicious but can also help treat ailments.

Osmanthus

The osmanthus is a typical Chinese herbal medicine with a very strong floral fragrance that can be used to make tea and pastries. Osmanthus tea can treat symptoms like sore throat and colds.

Spring Sakura

Sakura is one of the most important flowers in Japanese culture. Spring sakura can be made into pickled vegetables, preserves, and sweet drinks. Sakura is nutritious and helps boost immunity and prevent colds.

Fennel

Fennel is a common herb, and its flowers are edible. Fennel flowers have a fresh taste and can be added to salads and pastries.

Lavender

Lavender is a flower with sedative and sleep-aiding properties. Lavender flowers can be used to make tea and pastries like honey cakes. They are not only delicious but also help relieve stress and anxiety.

Morning Glory

The morning glory is a flower that contains various vitamins and antioxidants. Morning glories can be used to make tea, pastries, and sweet drinks.

Carnation

The carnation is a flower rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Carnation petals can be added to salads or used to make tea. They are not only delicious but can also boost immunity.

In different cultures and eras, edible flowers have their own unique flavors and nutritional values. This article introduces common edible flowers from various regions. They are both delicious and healthy and are worth trying.