Used since ancient times for their therapeutic qualities, flowers' many forms offer a bouquet of unique healing effects.
Aromatherapy
Essential oils are natural or volatile oils derived from plants; when warmed, they release potent scents to restore mind-body balance. Mood-altering oils, from invigorating citrus to calming lavender, have an array of at-home uses. Add a few drops to a bath or fill a diffuser.
Try: Aura Cacia Rose Otto Essential Oil
Culinary extracts
Incorporate an esoteric (and delicious) element into your next dinner party by spiking sauces, desserts, or quick-bread batters with culinary flower extracts. Lavender, rose, orange blossom, and jasmine offer unusual, can’t-put-your-finger-on-it flavor. Top it off with an edible flower garnish, such as honeysuckle, nasturtium, or squash blossoms.
Try: Silver Cloud Estates Organic Lavender Extract
Flower essences
Described as “tuning forks for the body,” flower essences are thought to subtly restore emotional equilibrium. Made by soaking flowers in distilled water (often in sunlight) and then adding brandy as a preservative, the odorless essences may ease anxiety, boost confidence, and alleviate depression.
Try: Bach Original Flower Remedies Wild Oat
Perfume
Ancient Chinese, Egyptian, and Roman cultures used natural fragrance as incense. Today many perfumes contain potentially allergenic and health-harming chemicals like phthalates and solvents; avoid them by choosing a fragrance made with flower essential oils such as gardenia, mandarin blossoms, and rose.
Try: A Perfume Organic Green
