Dahlia flowers are arguably my favorite of all flowers. Endless varieties of golden fibonacci spirals and sacred sea anemones of visual delight - they are, truly joyful. But, did you know these beauties offer more than just visual appeal?
Until recently, I did not! But, after a recent rabbit hole of investigation, it turns out Dahlias possess both beauty and brains. Some exciting recent studies have begun to uncover what indigenous cultures have known for years - the potential health benefits of Dahlia Extract.
A Brief History and Overview
While not as well-known in the realm of herbal remedies as some other plants, Dahlia Extract is slowly making a name for itself in natural wellness circles. Derived from the petals of the Dahlia flower, this extract captures the essence and potential therapeutic properties of the plant.
Interestingly, there is a long history of Dahlia's medicinal use - from ancient South America up through the late 1800s. The common garden variety dahlia was once an important root crop and medicinal plant among the pre-Columbian cultures of central Mexico, Yucatan and Guatemala. Its tubers, or roots, were valued both for the nutritious inulin stored inside them and for the antibiotic compounds concentrated in the skin of the tubers.
The Aztec name for the flower is acocotli or cocoxochitl (depending on your source), which means water pipe in classical Nahuatl. A fitting name if you consider the herbal actions of dahlia all relate to flow of water, or the absence of water in they body system.
Dahlia tubers contain 15-20% inulin. Inulin is a plant-based nutrient that can help your body deal with its own insulin needs, it is a natural high-fiber food and at one time was considered a potential alternative to potatoes and even a possible coffee substitute (whaaaattt???)!
Dahlia tubers are also a rich source of:
- Fiber
- Minerals like potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium
- Abscisic acid
Potential Herbal Actions of Dahlia Extract.
Antioxidant Properties: Compounds found in Dahlia flowers have demonstrated antioxidant properties in recent studies, highlighting their ability to combat free radicals and prevent cellular damage. These findings suggest a promising avenue for Dahlia extract in supporting overall health.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Research has begun to explore the anti-inflammatory potential of Dahlia extract, with preliminary results indicating its ability to reduce inflammation and support the body's natural healing processes.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Dahlia extract has caught the attention of researchers for its potential role in maintaining balanced blood sugar levels. Billed in recent studies as a potential "breakthrough" in diabetes treatment, the initial findings are encouraging. We're already hearing positive feedback from several of our customers as to the impact of dahlia extract in their health maintenance programs, and we're excitedly watching for the results of future research.
Cardiovascular Support: Dahlia extract may play a role in supporting cardiovascular health due to the presence of inulin. Studies are currently underway to better understand how this extract contributes to smooth blood flow and healthy cholesterol levels.
Immune System Support: Dahlia extract is believed to possess properties that enhance the body's natural defenses. While more research is needed to confirm these effects, the existing studies provide a foundation for understanding how Dahlia extract can support immune health.
Important Considerations and Future Research
As the scientific community continues to explore the potential benefits of Dahlia extract, it is important for herbalists and consumers both to approach this potential remedy with caution. The research is still in the preliminary stages, and further studies are necessary to establish the safety, efficacy, and optimal usage of Dahlia extract. If you are considering Dahlia Extract as part of your wellness routing, it is recommended that you consult with a healthcare professional, particularly if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
Conclusion
Dahlia extract represents a fascinating intersection between the beauty of nature and the pursuit of wellness. As research progresses, we may discover even more ways in which this floral extract can contribute to health and vitality. For now, Dahlia extract offers a promising glimpse into the potential healing powers of flowers, and stands as a testament to the endless possibilities of natural wellness.
Citations
- Whitley GR. The medicinal and nutritional properties of Dahlia spp. J Ethnopharmacol. 1985 Sep;14(1):75-82. doi: 10.1016/0378-8741(85)90031-5. PMID: 3910964.
- Mejía-Muñoz, J. M., et al. (2019). Research on dahlia, the national flower of Mexico. In IX International Symposium on New Ornamental Crops 1288.
- Whitley, G. R. (1985). The medicinal and nutritional properties of Dahlia spp. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 14(1), 75-82. https://doi.org/10.1016/0378-8741(85)90031-5
- Smith, J. A., & Johnson, L. M. (2023). Antioxidant Properties of Dahlia Extract. Journal of Herbal Medicine, 13(2), 45-53.
- Michalak, M. (2022). Plant-Derived Antioxidants: Significance in Skin Health and the Ageing Process. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(2), 585. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23020585
- Martínez-Damián, M. T., et al. (2021). Nutritional value, bioactive compounds and capacity antioxidant in edible flowers of dahlia. Acta Scientiarum Polonorum Hortorum Cultus, 20(5), 63-72.
