Blue Cornflower

Description

Centaurea cyanus, commonly known as cornflower or bachelor’s button, is an annual flowering plant in the family Asteraceae native to Europe. Presently available in Asia, Eurasia and many other part of the world. In the past, it often grew as a weed in cornfields (in the broad sense of “corn”, referring to grains, such as wheat, barley, rye, or oats), hence its name. It is now endangered in its native habitat by agricultural intensification, particularly by over-use of herbicides. However, Centaurea cyanus is now also naturalised in many other parts of the world.

Medicinal Benefits
Apart from its therapeutic benefits, cornflower flowers are also edible. cornflower flowers are known to stimulate and fortify the human body, reinforcing the immune system, liver activity and easing digestion. Field cornflower or Centaurea cyanus (latin again), used to treat daily ailments such as mucus membrane and tissue inflammation and skin inflammation, pain and conjunctivitis. Moreover, field cornflower floral water (or cornflower herbal distillate) helps alleviate sunburns, eye irritation, and even skin disorders.

Usage
The dried flowers are used to make medicine. People take cornflower tea to treat fever, constipation, water retention, and chest congestion. They also take it as a tonic, bitter, and liver and gallbladder stimulant. Women take it for menstrual disorders and vaginal yeast infections. Cosmetology uses the benefits of this natural remedy first of all against dark circles around the eyes. Indeed, its anti-inflammatory properties and relaxing effect helps decongest eyes.