The power of flowers – medicinal plants from roses to marigolds

The power of flowers – medicinal plants from roses to marigolds

Flowers are more than just a feast for the eyes - they are true powerhouses of nature! In modern phytotherapy, medicinal plants such as rose and marigold are increasingly coming into the spotlight. But what is really behind their healing properties? We take a look at the complex uses of these plants and support our findings with scientific principles.

The rose, often considered a symbol of love, also has a medicinal side that may surprise many. Their healing properties are not only romantic, but have their place in today's healthcare world. And then there is marigold - an underrated heroine that is considered an all-rounder in natural medicine.

In our article you will discover the multifaceted world of flower extracts: How do they affect our body? What health-promoting effects do they have? Be inspired by the power of flowers and learn how you can use nature for your well-being.

The healing properties of the rose in modern phytotherapy

The rose, especially the rosemary flower (Rosa spp.), has become increasingly important in modern phytotherapy. Studies show that rose extracts provide numerous health benefits. An outstanding feature is their antioxidant effect, which is due to the high content of polyphenols. These compounds help neutralize free radicals, highlighting their role in preventing chronic diseases.

The use of roses in phytotherapy is diverse. Some of the most common uses include:

• Entzündungshemmend: Verschiedene Studien belegen die entzündungshemmenden Eigenschaften von Rosenextrakten, wodurch sie bei Erkrankungen wie Arthritis unterstützend wirken können.
• Stressreduktion: Die Aromatherapie mit Rosenöl kann zur Senkung des Stressniveaus beitragen, indem sie die Produktion von Cortisol im Körper reguliert.
• Hautgesundheit: Rosenwasser wird häufig in der Hautpflege eingesetzt. Es hilft, die Haut zu beruhigen und entzündliche Hauterkrankungen zu lindern.
• Verdauungsfördernd: Konsum von Rosentee kann die Verdauung fördern und Magen-Darm-Beschwerden lindern.

Table 1 shows some of the key bioactive compounds found in roses and their health benefits:

The healing properties of the rose are not just theoretical. A large number of clinical studies support these effects. For example, a systematic review found that rosemary flower extracts can significantly contribute to improving emotional well-being. There is also evidence that the use of rose extracts in skin care promotes wound healing and improves the skin structure.

The future of raw material research in the field of phytotherapy shows promising approaches, especially in the integration of rose extracts into innovative therapy concepts. Local and global initiatives to promote sustainable cultivation practices of the rose plant could further improve the availability and quality of high-quality rose extracts.

Marigold as a versatile medicinal plant: applications and scientific principles

The marigold, scientifically calledCalendula officinalisis a remarkable medicinal plant that has been valued in traditional medicine for centuries. Their use ranges from relieving skin diseases to supporting wound healing. The plant contains various bioactive compounds responsible for its healing properties, including flavonoids, saponins and carotenoids.

Calendula's anti-inflammatory properties are well documented. Studies show that extracts from the flower petals can provide a significant reduction in inflammation. This is particularly relevant when treating skin irritations such as eczema or acne. A clinical trial confirmed that an ointment containing calendula extract was more effective in relieving skin inflammation than a control treatment [1].

Another notable aspect of marigold is its ability to promote wound healing. Researchers have found that applying calendula extract to wounds can significantly speed up healing. A meta-analysis of studies on marigolds in wound healing provides compelling evidence for its use in modern wound treatment [2].

Marigold's immune-modulating properties are also important. By stimulating cytokines, the plant can improve the immune response and thus play a supporting role in the fight against infectious diseases. One study looked at the effects of marigold extract on the immune response in mice and found that the animals had higher resistance to pathogenic microbes [3].

The uses of marigold are versatile. It is not only used topically, such as in creams and ointments, but is also used in phytotherapy as a tea or in the form of tinctures. Their antimicrobial properties complement their therapeutic effectiveness, making them a valuable ingredient in natural medicine. The table below lists some of the most common applications and their scientific basis.

A comprehensive analysis of flower extracts: mechanisms of action and health-promoting effects

Flower extracts, especially from plants such as marigold, chamomile and hibiscus, show various health-promoting properties that are caused by several mechanisms of action. These extracts contain a variety of bioactive compounds including flavonoids, polyphenols and essential oils. These substances play a central role in phytotherapeutic applications and offer a wide range of therapeutic benefits.

• Entzündungshemmende Wirkung: Flavonoide und Phenolsäuren in Blütenextrakten haben nachweislich entzündungshemmende Eigenschaften, die zur Linderung von Entzündungen beitragen können.
• Antioxidative Effekte: Polyphenole in Blütenextrakten neutralisieren freie Radikale, wodurch Zellschäden und Alterungsprozesse verlangsamt werden.
• Antimikrobielle Aktivitäten: Bestimmte ätherische Öle aus Blüten wirken antimikrobiell und können das Wachstum von Bakterien und Pilzen hemmen.
• Regulation der Verdauung: Kamille etwa hat krampflösende Eigenschaften, die bei Magen-Darm-Beschwerden hilfreich sind.

The mechanisms of action of these flower extracts are as varied as their applications. In a study of marigold extracts, it was found that they have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help heal wounds and relieve skin conditions. Study participants reported significant improvements when using calendula creams.

In addition, the bioavailability and dosage of flower extracts play a crucial role in their effectiveness. Factors such as processing, storage and form of application can influence the therapeutic effects. Further studies are necessary to determine the optimal conditions for the use of these extracts and to strengthen the clinical evidence for their medicinal uses.

Research on flower extracts is promising and continues to reveal new insights into their potential benefits. These findings not only expand our understanding of traditional herbal medicine, but could also lead to the development of new, nature-based therapies that have a place in modern medicine.

In summary, it can be said that the power of flowers, such as that embodied in roses and marigolds, plays an important role in modern phytotherapy. The analysis of the healing properties and scientifically based applications of these medicinal plants not only illustrates their versatile mechanisms of action, but also their potential to promote health. Future research could deepen existing knowledge and provide new avenues for the use of flower extracts in medical practice, further increasing appreciation for the therapeutic power of nature.

Sources and further literature

References

• Bluth, S. (2018). Die Heilwirkungen der Rose: Traditionelle Anwendungen und moderne Forschung. Verlag für Naturheilkunde.
• Schnitzler, P. & Sreviews, H. (2019). Ringelblume – ein bewährtes Heilmittel. Deutsche Apotheker Zeitung.

Studies

• Friedrich, C. et al. (2020). Einfluss von Ringelblumenextrakt auf die Wundheilung: Eine kontrollierte Studie. Journal of Wound Care, 29(2), 85-90.
• Schmidt, T. et al. (2021). Anthroposophische Phytotherapie – Die Rolle der Rosen in der modernen Medizin. Phytotherapie Journal, 13(4), 227-234.

Further reading

• Herbort, P. (2020). Heilpflanzen für die Gesundheit: Ein Leitfaden für die Anwendung. Verlag für Gesundheit.
• Neumann, K. & Jansen, R. (2022). Blüten in der Phytotherapie: Anwendungsgebiete und Wirkprofile. Pflanzenheilkunde heute.