The Language of Flowers: Exploring the Symbolism and Healing Properties of Blooms
There’s more to flowers than their good looks. Some of the most common herbal blooms carry centuries of traditional use—both in natural remedies and cultural symbolism. At Planted Wellness Co., we’re big fans of plants that do double duty: ones that are as helpful in your home apothecary as they are beautiful in your garden.
In this post, we’re highlighting a few of our favorite flowering herbs that offer both practical benefits and a little extra meaning behind the petals. Whether you’re curious about their wellness uses or just want to plant with more purpose, we’ve got you covered.
Chamomile – The Flower of Patience and Peace
Symbolism: Long associated with energy in reserve, chamomile has historically symbolized patience during adversity. It’s a quiet bloom that thrives even in poor soil—an emblem of calm perseverance.
Medicinal Benefits: Chamomile (German and Roman) is a go-to for soothing nerves, calming upset stomachs, and promoting restful sleep. It’s often used in teas, compresses, or even infused into bath soaks.
How to Use: Steep freshly harvested or dried flower heads for a calming tea. Add a spoonful of honey and a few sprigs of lemon balm for a stress-relief ritual.
Calendula – Sunshine and Skin Soother
Symbolism: Calendula represents healing and warmth. In the Victorian “language of flowers,” it stood for grief and remembrance, but also new beginnings. A plant of transformation.
Medicinal Benefits: This golden bloom is a skin superhero—rich in anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compounds, making it perfect for healing salves, wound washes, or acne-prone skin.
How to Use: Dry the petals and infuse them in oil for use in skin salves. Calendula is also gentle enough to sip in teas for internal inflammation support.
Holy Basil (Tulsi) – The Queen of Herbs
Symbolism: Considered sacred in Indian culture, Tulsi stands for protection, purity, and devotion. A spiritual herb, it’s believed to connect the earthly and the divine.
Medicinal Benefits: Tulsi is a powerful adaptogen, helping the body respond to stress. It supports immune health, respiratory clarity, and emotional balance.
How to Use: Brew the leaves and flowers into a nourishing tea to bring focus, balance, and serenity. Perfect for daily sipping.
Borage – Courage in Bloom
Symbolism: In medieval times, knights would wear borage flowers into battle for courage and valor. It was even said to bring bravery to the heart.
Medicinal Benefits: Borage is used to support adrenal health, skin conditions, and inflammation. Its stunning blue flowers are also edible!
How to Use: Add fresh flowers to salads, freeze in ice cubes for a botanical mocktail, or steep for a subtly floral tea.
Elderflower – Wisdom and Protection
Symbolism: The elder tree has deep folklore roots, often symbolizing wisdom, protection, and feminine energy. It's long been revered as a plant of boundary-setting and inner power.
Medicinal Benefits: Elderflowers are a traditional remedy for cold and flu support, helping with sinus relief and immune strength.
How to Use: Dry the blooms for tea or add to tinctures with lemon and honey for seasonal support.
Your Garden as a Personal Apothecary and Storyteller
When you plant with intention, your garden becomes more than a space—it becomes a reflection of you. Every bloom tells a story. From calendula’s resilience to borage’s bravery, these floral allies offer both symbolic and physical healing.
Next time you walk through your garden or visit us at a PW pop-up, pause and ask: What is this bloom trying to tell me?
