Many flowers have traditionally been associated with romance throughout the centuries. Rose is perhaps the most well known of romantic flowers. However, did you know that there are several species of other flowers which are also associated with romance – and which also have therapeutic benefits?
Herbs Which Were Used in Weddings
Today we might not associate herbs with weddings and romance but historically several herbs were used in weddings as part of bridal bouquets or bridal crowns. Herbs such as rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), marjoram (Origanum marjorana) and lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) were used in traditional Greek and Roman weddings.
These type of herbs were prevalent in the Mediterranean region so were probably used in weddings as people had easy access to them. However, these herbs also had therapeutic benefits. Rosemary was traditionally used for respiratory, digestive and nervous disorders, in addition to muscle aches and pains; rosemary is also an aphrodisiac. Marjoram was used for similar complaints, although interestingly marjoram is listed as an anaphrodisiac by Julia Lawless in The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils.
Therapeutic Benefits of Orange Blossom for Brides
Orange blossom (Citrus aurantium var. amara), also known as Neroli, was a plant that was native to the Far East but became adapted to the Mediterranean climate once it was naturalized in the region. Orange blossom flowers are white, fragrant flowers that belong to the bitter orange tree.
Orange blossom flowers have a number of therapeutic benefits; with regard to romance, the flowers are aphrodisiac and help to calm the nerves. Traditionally, orange blossom flowers were used in bridal bouquets in order to calm the bride before she walked down the aisle. They were also used to calm the nerves before the newly married couple spent their first night together in the marriage bed.
Ylang Ylang Flowers for the Marriage Bed
Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata) is a tropical tree with large, yellow, fragrant flowers. The tree is native to tropical Asia and traditionally the flowers of ylang ylang were spread out over the marriage bed of newly married couples.
Ylang ylang flowers are also aphrodisiac, in addition to being sedative and anti-depressant. Therefore, they are an ideal flower to initiate romance and calm the nerves! However, ylang ylang flowers can also be intoxicating and may cause nausea and headaches if used in excess.
Roses for Romance
Rose (Rosa damascena) became popular in Europe when it was brought to the European countries from its native Orient. There are many different species of roses, some of which are fragrant and some of which are not fragrant.
Fragrant roses, such as Rosa damascena, have therapeutic benefits that include aphrodisiac, anti-depressant and sedative. Roses were used in excess by the Romans who lavishly used rose petals in banquets. Today, brides commonly carry roses in bridal bouquets and the rose is regarded as the traditional flower of love.
Flowers For Your Loved One
Flowers come in many colors, shapes and scents. However, some flowers do possess actual therapeutic benefits so if you are looking to instigate some love into your life you might want to consider some of the above mentioned flowers! In addition, flowers such as lavender are calming, so if you have an important date planned you might want to consider combining flowers, such as lavender, with aphrodisiac flowers, such as rose. The scent of flowers is more powerful than many realize – so be careful which flowers you choose for your loved one next time it is her birthday or special occasion!
References:
- Lawless, Julia, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils
- Lawless, Julia, The Aromatherapy Garden
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