Health Benefits of Edible Flowers and Leaves
Using edible flowers and leaves on culinary dishes is a wonderful way to embellish the flavor and appearance of a dish. We commonly associate flowers and leaves as part of a decorative arrangement reserved for offering to individuals on special occasions. There’s no doubt the majority of flowers and leaves are used to beautify our neighborhoods, communities, and dining room tables.
However, there is a special subsection of leaves and flowers that do not contain harmful toxins to our bodies. You might be surprised to discover how diverse the collection of edible plants is and how beneficial to our health they can be. Either way, your health may be improved by adding more flowers to your salad.
The Main Benefits Edible Flowers and Plants Offer
Edible flowers and plants are packed with vitamins and minerals our bodies need every day to function properly.
Lavender – Lavender is widely recognized as having a calming and soothing effect. More importantly, lavender is packed with important nutrients. Vitamin A, calcium, and iron. You are most likely to see lavender in teas and drinks, but the leaves themselves are edible and can be added as a salad, soup, or smoothie topping.
Purslane – This variety of plant is the richest plant containing omega-3 fatty acids, a plant-based alternative to other sources like sardines and mackerel. Omega-3 fatty acids are shown to be highly beneficial in preventing various forms of heart disease including strokes, heart attacks, blocked arteries, etc.
Roses – Roses are high in Vitamins A and E and have a nourishing effect on the body.
They also contain metabolism-boosting compounds, while assisting the body with the removal of toxins. They have been shown to help with weight loss and skin disorders such as eczema and acne. Women will often use rosehip to treat disorders with their monthly cycle and digestive problems.
Dried Hibiscus – If you’re not already drinking hibiscus tea or incorporating this power flower into your diet, you should. Dried hibiscus is a good source of antioxidants and essential flavonoids that helps lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and improve your skin health.
Edible Orchids – Orchid blooms are safe to eat and the petals have a fresh taste similar to green leafy vegetables used in salads. They also serve as beautiful additions to cake decorations. Edible orchids are rich in Vitamin C, iron, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants. These vitamins and phytochemicals are necessary minerals to improve your immune system and overall vitality.
Edible flowers and plants are a fun and healthy way to revamp your menu and offer new and unique dishes for your guests. It can greatly complement your desserts and any special occasion you cater. Plant-based diets are on the rise as more people are opting for alternatives to meat-based products or highly processed foods and, thankfully, there are many great health benefits to consuming edible flowers and plants.
Peddler’s Son is Arizona’s Top-Quality Food Supplier
Peddler’s Son is the go-to farm-fresh food supplier for Arizona restaurants, hospitals, schools, and more. Family-owned and operated since 1988, Peddler’s Son brings you honest pricing, unparalleled customer service, and farm-fresh produce every day.
We believe in quality and that’s what you’ll get when you rely on us to deliver high-value foods for your dishes. We put our food quality and reliable delivery service first along with the customers we serve all across the state.
Want to get reliable quality fresh foods for your restaurant, school, or business? We can help! Contact us today to see how we can help you get the food you need to be delivered fresh and on time!