Description

COMMON NAME Standardized: cornflower flower  Other: bachelor's button, cyani

BOTANICAL NAME Centaurea cyanus Plant Family: Asteraceae

INTRODUCTION Cornflower flower is a common wildflower that has been cultivated as a garden flower for centuries. Originally a native of the Near East, cornflower flower now grows wild over much of Europe and the temperate regions of North America. The cornflower gets its formal name from a minor goddess, Cyanus, and its genus name from a mythical Centaur (from the Greek Centaurea), whose name was Chiron. Chiron was a renowned herbalist in Greek mythology, and is credited with teaching mankind about the healing power of herbs. In many areas of the Europe, cornflowers are considered invasive weeds, despite the fact that they are also sought after garden flowers. They are annuals and biennials that often self sow and reseed themselves, making them difficult to eradicate. They got the name Bachelor's buttons in Victorian England because young women would wear them as a sign of availability.

CONSTITUENTS Anthocyans, coumarins, flavonoids

PARTS USED Petals, flowers

TYPICAL PREPARATIONS Infusion, Cornflower petals are also very popular as ingredient in soaps, bath bombs, candles, potpourri, confetti and dyes.

PRECAUTIONS Specific: No known precautions.

General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.