Continuing the looking for herbals flowering this spring, in my yard, just to show what a suburban yard can be expected to produce; I found lilac blooming in my front yard. This is what my spring Lilac flowers look like:
Lilac Latin name: Syringa vulgaris
Family: Oleaceae (Olive Family)
The leaves and the fruit are antiperiodic (used to treat recurring conditions like malaria), febrifuge (fever reducing herbal), tonic and vermifuge (A medicine that expels intestinal worms).
In the past, lilac was ingested to rid the intestines of parasitic worms The bark or leaves have been chewed by children as a treatment for sore mouth.
The flower has a history of medicinal use. In the 19th century, lilac was used by doctors to treat fevers. However, its rate of success was so erratic that its use in the treatment of fever was discontinued by doctors.
Some modern herbalists use the essential oil of lilac to treat skin ailments such as rashes, sunburns and minor cuts and scrapes.
Edible parts of Lilac:
Flowers - raw or folded into batter and fried to make pancakes or waffles.
Other uses of the herb:
An essential oil is obtained from the flowers, for aroma therapy. It is also commonly used to make perfume.
Here is a good quote on the uses of Lilac essential oils!
https://www.leaf.tv/articles/what-are-the-health-benefits-of-lilac/
Image from article:
Aromatherapy has a centuries-long history as a form of healing, both physically and psychologically. In aromatherapy, the fragrant essential oils of various plants are distilled and then disseminated into the air, either via an atomizer, candle or other method. Aromatherapists believe the inhalation of these oils can provide a variety of therapeutic benefits. Examples are the use of eucalyptus oil to relieve nasal congestion, or citronella oil to keep mosquitoes and insects away. However, aromatherapists believe there are numerous benefits offered by a wide range of plant oils, including lilacs.
Aromatherapy Benefits
When used in aromatherapy, the essential oil from the traditional purple lilac -- or French lilac -- is said to provide a calming effect that eases anxiety. Other reported effects include a purifying, soothing sensation that centers the mind to encourage relaxation. The oil from white lilacs is also used in aromatherapy to produce a calming, soothing effect. The scent of white lilacs also brings about an enhanced feeling of sensuality.
Lilac oil was one of the initial oils that launched the aroma therapy business. It has been a very popular choice for oil to use for aroma therapy. The added medical benefits, once understood; will make this a much sought after decoratory shrub!
Plant one, enjoy it, and Use it...medically!
Be Blessed!
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