Product Description
Centaurea Cyanus is growing to 40–90 cm tall, with grey-green branched stems. The leaves are lanceolate and 1–4 cm long. The flowers are most commonly an intense blue color and arranged in flowerheads of 1.5–3 cm diameter, with a ring of a few large, spreading ray florets surrounding a central cluster of disc florets.
Uses
- Food
The flowers of Centaurea Cyanus can be eaten raw, dried or cooked. Dried petals are used in foods, including in spices. Their main purpose is to add color to food. Petals can also be added to salads, drinks, or desserts for garnishing purposes in raw or dried form.
- Beverages
Dried petals are also used in teas and other beverages.
- Ornamental use
Centaurea Cyanus is used as an ornamental plant. There are varieties with blue, white, purple, pink or even black petals.
- Pigment
The blue color of Centaurea Cyanus is due to protocyanin, an anthocyanin pigment that is also found in roses. Different anthocyanins derived from Centaurea Cyanus are used as natural additives in food products, such as yoghurts.
Health Benefits of Cornflower.
Cornflowers are more than just a pretty flower. There are several health benefits and uses of cornflowers. Cornflowers have been in use since Medieval Times to treat various symptoms but mainly eye and muscle pain. Cornflowers make for a soothing tea that soothes the skin and the muscles alike.
Medicinal Uses
- Therapeutic Soak
- Soothing Compress