What are osmanthus flowers used for?
The very fragrant flowers are used as an additive for tea and other beverages in the far east. In addition, in China the flowers are also used to produce osmanthus-scented jam, sweet cakes, dumplings and soups. An extract (alcohol absolute) of gold-orange flowers (O. Osmanthus fragrans, commonly called fragrant olive, sweet olive or sweet tea, produces clusters of not particularly showy flowers that have an extremely powerful apricot fragrance.Indeed, the flavor of these small little blossoms is incredibly sweet. Osmanthus blossoms are harvested in late summer, dried and used for making Chinese flower tea, scenting real teas or making jams, liqueurs, cakes and other food. Osmanthus is a very popular ingredient in cosmetics too.With its naturally sweet, apricot-like scent, osmanthus is often used in drinks, baked goods, desserts, and even savory recipes. Among the most delightful ways to enjoy this flower is through Osmanthus jam — a rich, syrupy preserve that beautifully captures the fragrance and charm of the blossom.Osmanthus fragrans has been used as folk medicine for thousands of years. The extracts of Osmanthus fragrans flowers were reported to have various bioactivities including free radical scavenging, anti-inflammation, neuroprotection and antitumor effects.
What is the magical use of osmanthus?
Osmanthus is associated with the Moon and is said to have magical self-healing powers. It can be worked into an amulet for regeneration and restoration when energies are low or depleted. In magical perfumery, it can be used in blends to help combat the effects of burn-out, stress and anxiety. The name Osmanthus comes from the Greek language, Osma(fragrant) and Anthos(flower), literally meaning Fragrant Flower. Osmanthus flowers are a symbol of love and romance, blooming for only a few days in the Spring, and are celebrated during wedding ceremonies and the Chinese Moon Festival in August.Its delicate appearance and enchanting fragrance have inspired countless works of art and literature. The flower is often used as a metaphor for purity, humility, and the fleeting nature of beauty. In poetry, osmanthus blossoms are depicted as symbols of noble character and are associated with the elegance of autumn.In Chinese culture, it symbolizes love, romance, and fidelity, often used in traditional wedding ceremonies and moon festivals. Similarly, in Japan, Osmanthus is considered a harbinger of prosperity, happiness, and luck, making it an integral part of celebrations and auspicious events.Cultural Significance and Symbolism of Osmanthus It represents romance, love, and optimism, making it popular for weddings and romantic celebrations. The delicate blossoms of Osmanthus are often associated with noble virtues, such as loyalty and longevity, and are believed to bring good fortune.
Does osmanthus have health benefits?
Osmanthus herbal tea is enjoyed for its unique taste and potential health benefits, such as promoting relaxation, aiding in digestion, promoting skin health, and having a rich antioxidant content. Neo beta carotene and trans alpha carotene are essentially converted into vitamin A and is an antioxidant. Osmanthus tea has been known to reduce bloating, gas, while treating stomach aches, menstrual pain and diarrhoea. It is also known to treat intestinal diseases.
Is osmanthus good for your period?
May ease menstrual pain Osmanthus tea may help reduce menstrual pain. It is beneficial to treat stomach aches and diarrhea. It also improves digestion, treats intestinal diseases, and reduces bloating and gas. Osmanthus fragrans Lour. Asian countries including Japan and Korea and southwestern China. It has been used traditionally for the treatment of weakened vision, halitosis, panting, asthma, cough, toothache, stomachache, diarrhea, rheumatism, physique pain and hepatitis.Versatile Uses of Osmanthus In traditional Asian cuisine, the flowers are often used to infuse teas, desserts, and other delicacies with their unique floral flavor. Osmanthus tea, in particular, is cherished for its aromatic and soothing qualities, making it a popular choice for relaxation and wellness.Osmanthus Fragrans Flower Extract is known for its hydration benefits, helping to improve skin’s moisture levels and leaving it feeling soft and supple.
Can osmanthus flowers be eaten?
Unlike many other flower petals that are bitter to the taste, osmanthus petals have a unique flavor which is only slightly bitter and very mildly sweet; making it ideal for cooking, making teas and wines, or as an ingredient for fragrance. Osmanthus fragrans ‘Yuntinan Caigui’ (sweet olive, tea olive, fragrant olive, sweet osmanthus) is a RARE, small, evergreen shrub with fragrant white flowers in the spring and sporadically throughout the season, with variegated green with broad white margined leaves.