Cornflowers for Beauty
- Angela Lagarra
- Aug 23, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 5
Contents
Cornflowers are a versatile beauty-aid.
A “tea” made by steeping cornflower petals in just boiled distilled water can be used for eyes, skin, and hair.
What is it?
Cornflower is a plant, used as a medicinal herb.
It is not related to corn, and not to be confused with corn flour.
Its common name cornflower comes from its habit of growing (as a weed) in corn fields.
Considered an endangered species in some countries.
Latin name Centaurea cyanus, common names include cornflower or bachelor’s button. Bachelor’s button gets its name from the habit of men tucking a flower in their button-hole when courting.
Family name Asteraceae (related to aster, chamomile, chrysanthemum, daisy, dandelion, sunflower).
Eyes
Cornflowers contain properties that reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. Once cooled this tea, more properly called an infusion, is applied with a cotton ball over the eye area to reduce puffy eyes, styes, and sensitive or tired eyes.
Sometimes combined with rosewater. Rose petal tea is also used (once cooled) by dipping a clean cloth in the infusion and then placed over the lids for 5-10 minutes for rested, bright eyes.
Rosewater is made by steeping rose petals in just boiled water and then cooling.
Cornflower water can cause eye irritation. Ask your medical doctor before using cornflower or rose water in or near the eyes.
Do not store, use immediately.
Test for Sensitivity
Perform a patch test of a small area for sensitivity.
Warnings
Do not use if allergic to ragweed.
Can cause a miscarriage-do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Uses:
Used in Skincare Routines
Used for sunned skin (cools burn), acne, eczema, psoriasis, oily skin and sensitive skin.
Used for rosacea (contracts capillaries). Rosacea most often occurs in fair-skinned women in their thirties. It causes redness and small, red, pus-filled bumps.
Cornflower water brightens and softens skin.
It improves the appearance of crepey skin.
As an astringent it tightens pores and tones when applied to the skin with a cotton ball.
Promotes relaxation and enhances sleep. Being tired shows in the skin.
Hair and Scalp
Improves circulation.
Stimulates healthy new hair growth and produces healthy, shiny, beautiful hair. It prevents dryness, dullness, breakage and split ends.
Used on the scalp it improves circulation and prevents dandruff.
Benefits of drinking infusion (tea) make from cornflower petals.
Cornflower petals are used as an ingredient in a type of Earl Grey tea called Blue Lady Grey.
What it can do
Petals have several properties that may add to good health.
They’re antibacterial which means they fight infections caused by bacteria.
They act as a mild laxative making them useful for constipation.
They are anti-inflammatory which means they reduce inflammation making them useful for inflammatory skin and eye disorders.
They contain antioxidants which counteract free radicals. This reduces the incidence of cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s and prevents premature aging of the skin.
They are antipruritic which means that they sooth and reduce itchiness.
They have diuretic properties which means they help eliminate excess sodium and fluids.
They act as an expectorant which thins mucus and makes it easier to cough it up.
They are gastroprotective which means they protect the health of the stomach.
They are a digestive tonic, used for general health of the body or a body system.
As a bitter herb, it’s a digestive stimulant. It enhances the production of digestive juices and enzymes from the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.
Used For
Alzheimer’s, cancer, chest congestion, constipation, heart disease, fever, and joint pain.
Menstrual disorders, menstrual cramps, yeast infections.
Digestive health and anti-aging.
Boosts the immune system and reduces anxiety.
Fun Fact
Contains protocyanin, a type of anthocyanin which gives roses their red color while giving cornflower petals their blue color. (due to the reaction between other metals in the petals).
Precautions
Emmenagogue, do not use if pregnant or nursing.
Related to ragweed. Do not use if allergic to ragweed.
Perform a patch test before using near the eyes or on large areas of skin.
Always speak with your medical doctor before adding herbs to your diet or beauty routine.
Important Information. I am a clinical nutritionist and holistic health practitioner. I am not a medical doctor. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for proper medical treatments or care. Always consult with your medical doctor before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or fitness programs.
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