Daffodils - rebirth and new beginnings
Let's talk about daffodils!
These bright and cheerful flowers are well known for their vibrant yellow or white petals and trumpet-shaped centres. But did you know that daffodils also have a rich history, symbolic meanings, and even medicinal properties? - read on to become an absolute 'know it all' about these joyous spring blooms!
Daffodils Symbolism:
Daffodils are a symbol of rebirth, renewal, and new beginnings and are used as a symbol of hope and happiness. In some cultures, daffodils are believed to represent good luck, prosperity, and fortune. In literature, daffodils have been used to represent love, beauty, and purity.
I mean, William Wordsworth has even written a poem about them "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud" ... they're virtual celebrities of the gardening world, surely!
Did you know that Cleopatra used them as perfume to attract her lovers?
The essential oil of daffodils; which contains properties like vitamins A, C and B complex; iron; calcium; magnesium; phosphorus; potassium; sodium; sulfur; silicon; chlorine; zinc; copper and manganese is not only a lovely scent, but super useful in medicine too.
Daffodils Through History:
Daffodils have been cultivated for thousands of years and have a rich history. They were first cultivated in the Mediterranean region and were introduced to Europe in the 16th century. In the Middle Ages, daffodils were believed to have healing powers and were used to treat a variety of ailments, including wounds, coughs, and digestive problems. They were also used in love potions and as a symbol of courtship. In ancient Greece, daffodils were associated with the god Apollo and were often depicted in artwork. During the Victorian era, daffodils became a popular flower for gardens and were often used in floral arrangements.
Daffodils in Medicine:
Just when you thought they couldn't get any better, they also have medicinal benefits! Daffodils contain a compound called galantamine, which has been used to treat Alzheimer's disease. Galantamine is also used to treat other conditions, such as myasthenia gravis and glaucoma. Daffodils have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The bulbs of the plant contain alkaloids, which have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, respiratory problems, and even cancer. Despite all those amazing pro's, the use of daffodils in medicine is controversial, as they can be toxic if ingested in large quantities, so don't go chomping on any daffodil bulbs yourself on a 'self healing mission' 😉
I've launched a pattern for you to make some crocheted versions, it's a quick project, you can definitely make a few in one sitting.
GET YOUR CROCHETED DAFFODIL PATTERN NOW
I advise that you make a bunch, they look so cute in a vase, but also great as additions to wrapping of any gifts you give this time of year. Or maybe you know someone that especially loves this lovely flower, they would love a bunch of them to keep them company all year long.