Pansies have a wealth of health and medicinal benefits that many people who grow them for their beauty alone have never heard of.
All aerial parts of the plants are edible and medicinal. I love the slight wintergreen taste the leaves and flowers (when the whole flower is eaten) have. The petals alone are rather bland but add an amazing pop of color to salads.
Here is a brief list of some of the medicinal benefits of the Pansy (Also known as Heartease):
It is an anti allergen and is anti-aging,
Its mucilaginous properties means it is very helpful for colds and flus as it soothes coughs and sore throats and is also helpful in treating fevers. Also in treating asthma and bronchitis.
It is a diuretic and its vulnerary actions make it great for skin disorders such as eczema, acne, and more.
I love making herbal teas, hot or iced, with pansies:
and using them in salads:
and using in my homemade skin and hair products like my soaps, shampoos, clay masks, and skin creams:
I also use them in my homemade floral vinegars that I use as my regular hair wash:
I have even started adding them to stir fries, though I do not have a photo of that to show you!
So if you like to garden and are into an edible and medicinal landscape, do not overlook the pansy. It adds so much beauty and draws in your beneficial insects and birds, it is simply a must! If you are growing them already, then learn about the many ways you can make the most of them! <3
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