Flower Power: Six Beautiful Blooms that Heal

1. Calendula

Also called marigold, calendula is a healing flower that contains natural anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. It’s intensely healing to the skin and can be used in place of drugstore antibacterial ointments and creams for minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. One study from the International Journal of Tissue Reactions found that calendula ointment helped reduce venous leg ulcers when applied topically for three weeks.

Try: Boiron Calendula Ointment

2.  Echinacea

Used medicinally for centuries by Native Americans and other cultures, echinacea can help reduce symptoms of the common cold if taken at the first hint of illness. It’s well-known for its antibacterial qualities. This beautiful purple coneflower also has compounds that have been shown to help ease anxiety, reduce inflammation, and improve acne and eczema.

Try: Gaia Herbs Echinacea Supreme

3.  Rosehip

Extracted from the seeds of the wild rose bush, rosehip oil is a healing flower packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These beneficial fats can help repair and regenerate skin cells, improving the appearance of scars, burns, blemishes, and age spots. Rosehip oil also contains beta- carotene and tretinoin, a retinoic acid that helps diminish lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.

Try: Andalou Naturals 1000 Roses Velvet Soft Body Butter

4. Geranium

To balance oily skin, add a few drops of geranium to your skincare products, which helps regulate oil production and reduces acne breakouts. Geranium is anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and has antioxidant properties. It also improves skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of wrinkles. The scent of geranium is uplifting and can ease stress.

Try: NOW Organic Essential Oils Geranium

5. St. John’s Wort

This cheerful healing flower is one of the most effective natural treatments for depression. Studies have found that it works better than some prescription drugs for depression and results in fewer side effects. Topical St. John’s wort is prized for its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Try on minor burns, cuts, and scrapes. You can also find topical St. John’s wort for cold sores. Note: St. John’s wort can enhance the liver’s breakdown of drugs, including oral contraceptives and chemotherapeutic drugs, and therefore may reduce their effectiveness.

Try: Herb Pharm St. John’s Wort

6. Lavender

The benefits of lavender are endless, from easing anxiety to boosting mood to clearing up acne. The scent of lavender has been shown in several studies to reduce workplace anxiety and relieve stress. And it’s edible! Lavender adds a light floral note to recipes, and it pairs especially well with citrus, as in this simple lemonade. Recipe excerpted from 4-Ingredient Smoothies + Juices by Dee Dine.

Lavender Lemonade recipe