by Ian Campbell

Created on: December 14, 2007

Flowers and herbs of all shapes and beauty have circled the earth for over 200 million years. With a history like that, it is no wonder that we have an affinity for them. Apart from their beauty, flowers hold many medicinal properties as well as poignant meanings.

The Dahlia is the national flower of Mexico. In ancient times, the Aztecs used Dahlias to treat epilepsy. Before the use of insulin for diabetics, a sugar was made from Dahlia tubers. Even today, chemicals derived from Dahlias are used in clinical tests for the treatment of liver and kidney disease. Its popularity didn't mount until the mid 19th century when it was brought to Europe. Once the Dahlia reached Europe it was cultivated and bred for distribution. The significant meaning of the Dahlia is dignity and elegance.

Sunflowers are an interesting flower, for when they see the sun, they turn their heads to face it. Originating in Central and South America they are not only radiant but their seeds are said to be enriched with all the body needs: healthy fats, protein, fiber, minerals, and vitamin E. Everything a body needs to ensure a healthy diet. The Sunflower beams with adoration and sunshine.

The Calendula is a member of the marigold family which traditionally is an herb; however, its bright yellow blossoms make it shine like a flower. The Romans used Calendula mixed with vinegar to season their meat and salad dishes. Calendula blossoms in wine were said to soothe indigestion. The petals were used in ointments which cured skin irritations, jaundice, sore eyes, and toothaches. Early Christians called this flower Mary's Gold which they placed by the statues of the Virgin Mary. Being associated with religion and healing, Calendula is said to be of the most sacred flower to ancient India. Its flower heads were used to make garlands that adorned holy statues.

The Daisy is prominent in many cultures and has a substantial history: Marguerite is the French word for daisy. It comes from a Greek word meaning pearl'. Francis I affectionately referred to his sister as Marguerite of Marguerites. She wore the daisy as her symbol. The actual name of the flower was given by the English, day's eye. It refers to the way the flower opens and closes with the sun. Primitive medical men concluded that it must be an intended cure for eye troubles.

Daisies appear in an old Celtic legend which states that the spirits of the children who have died during childbirth, scatter daisies on the earth to soothe their grieving parents.

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