1 - Lavender

Do not think that lavender ( Lavandula ) only serves to beautify gardens and scent our lives! Also known as lavender, the flowers, which are super-aromatic, can be used for both salty dishes - they combine especially with poultry and cheese - and sweets such as cakes and sweet breads.

(Wikimedia Commons / Mimova)

The flowers still have medicinal properties - among them antiseptic, healing, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antidepressant qualities - and are indicated to relieve skin problems, body and muscle aches, stress, depression, sleep disorders and to help with symptoms. hypertension and respiratory conditions.

2 - Chinese Chives

Although Chinese chives ( Allium tuberosum ) - a milder version of conventional chives ( Allium schoenoprasum ) - are widely used in cooking, not everyone knows that their flowers can also be eaten. Its flavor is more pronounced than the teat we usually use for cooking, so those who do not like strong foods should use the petals sparingly.

(Wikipedia Commons / Taraxacumseeds)

Flowers may be employed in the preparation of salty dishes and sauces for use with pasta and fish, for example. But plants are not just for making our dishes taste better. With regard to medicinal properties, Chinese chives can be used as a healing aid in relieving ulcers and hypertension, as well as strengthening the immune system.

3 - Borage

Also known here in Brazil by the names of borrage, chimarrona rubber and foligem, this plant - of the species Borago officinalis - gives beautiful bright blue, star-shaped flowers that are edible. With a little reminiscent of chayote, its petals can be used in iced teas and flavored waters, as well as in fruit salads and leaf salads.

(Wikimedia Commons / Hans Bernhard)

But in addition to making drinks and food more beautiful, borage also has medicinal properties. Rich in potassium nitrate and mucilage, this plant can be used as an emollient, purifier, sweat, laxative and natural diuretic, so it is indicated for the relief of cold and flu symptoms, respiratory and urinary tract problems.

4 - Pansy

Did you know that these super common little flowers ( Viola x wittrockiana ) were edible? They can be used in salads and in the decoration of cakes, sweets and drinks and, alternatively, their petals can be incorporated into the batter and pancake batter or mixed with creamy cheeses to increase the product.

(Wikimedia Commons / Grant)

With regard to medicinal properties, pansy flowers contain saponins, mucilage and salicylic acid components and are known for their calming, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antiseptic qualities. Therefore, they can help treat skin problems, strengthen the immune system, relieve pain, inflammation and reduce fever.

5 - Capuchin

Besides being showy, the Capuchin ( Tropaeolum plant) is edible and has a taste that resembles that of watercress, so it can be added to juices, teas and green salads to make them more tasty and full of color. Another option is to use the petals in the preparation of sauces and vinaigrette to accompany fish and pasta.

(Wikimedia Commons / Jamain)

But in addition to making our dishes more beautiful, breakable, these beautiful flowers have medicinal properties. Among the most well-known benefits are its effects such as diuretic, digestive, sedative, antibiotic, expectorant and antiseptic, which makes nasturtium an option to aid in the treatment of skin and bruising disorders, fluid retention, breathing disorders and problems with the skin. digestion.

* Remember that medicinal plants do not replace the traditional drugs prescribed by your doctor and should be used wisely, as their overuse can be harmful and have adverse effects. So always talk to an expert if you have questions.