In the last few weeks here at The Beddha, we focused our attention on female empowerment, sisterhood, and what it means to be women in 2019. We talked about self-love and how we are learning to express our needs.

But how can we practice self-care and treat ourselves as modern goddesses on a more practical level?

There are many ways, but since The Beddha is focused on wellness, I think it makes sense to talk more about products and tools, and what inspired and inspires the concept behind us.

And the starting point is Chinese culture and how traditional medicine uses nature (in the form of dried, powered, spray-dried concentrates herbs).

Chinese believe that flowers convey positive messages and healing powers, so they have a privileged position in Asian culture and Chinese communities, where practical applications for herbs have been passed down for generations.

You have probably heard of the more common plants and flowers often known to Western herbalists, like ginseng, licorice, rhubarb roots, chamomile, echinacea, calendula. Or Lavender, known for its calming and relaxing properties.

But there are others you might not expect. According to some experts, there is a list of different flowers that have wonderful healing properties along with beauty.
Below a few I selected while searching the topic:

• For example, Chrysanthemum has many uses. In traditional Chinese medicine theory, Chrysanthemum tea can relieve internal heat and fever. Tea is often used after spicy and baked food. The flower is also a symbol of longevity in Chinese myths and literature. According to the Jade Institute, drinking Chrysanthemum tea can prevent aging (but only if you drink it over a long period of time). Also, pillow made of its dried petals are good for people’s eyes. In combination with Honeysuckle, Chrysanthemum flowers lower high blood pressure.

• Magnolia Flower is considered one of the most effective herbal remedies for stuffy noses and chronic sinusitis.

• Dried Peony petals can also be added in tea to alleviate pain caused by menstruation. Red and White Tree Peony has powerful antioxidants that help balance skin.

• Chinese roses are used to cure menstruation disorders.

• Centella, knowns as one of the miracle elixirs of life, improves skin resilience.

• Lotus Flower is probably one of the most famous flowers associated with Chinese medicine, known to treat bleeding disorders and to reduce excessive dreaming. Thanks to its oil-controlling and hydrating properties, it’s used to keep skin healthy.

• Wild Ginseng Root, being rich in phytonutrients, helps regenerate, brighten and smooth skin.

• Elderflower has a long history of medical application and because of its beauty benefits, from its softening effect to its anti-wrinkle properties, it’s one of the most common floral extracts used in natural products like toners and face creams.

• Orchid has been documented as a prestige herb in traditional Chinese medicine since 2800BC. The flower has soothing and anti-aging properties.

Maybe because we are aware we live in an uncertain world, as consumers we seek a greater connection to nature and a deeper sense of wholeness. We look for alternative self-care solutions that align mind and body. Therefore an increasing interest in natural products and ancient traditions.

Inhale your next breath of desire: a super natural botanical facial steam.
Exhale: self-love.
Because we are part of this new wave!

Love

✒ BY MARGHERITA ANTINORI