Marshmallow… wait! Isn’t it a candy? Well, it is, but where did it come from? Actually, marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe, Western Asia and North Africa. From ancient times (as early as 2000 BCE) it was used to soothe coughs and sore throats. For that Ancient Egyptians boiled its root pulp with honey. When thickened, it became the first marshmallow candy. But that’s not all…
California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) is a perennial (or annual in a harsh climate) plant with beautiful orange flowers. For their brilliant shades of red, orange and yellow it's also called golden poppy, California sunlight or cup of gold. But let's see what else can it give us, besides its beauty.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a sturdy perennial plant, which is predominantly found across the Northern Hemisphere, including in Asia, Europe, and North America. Traditionally, it has been used to treat ailments such as cuts, burns, and insect bites. But beyond that, what other benefits does yarrow offer?
Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a perennial plant with bright blue flowers. Native to the Old World, it has since spread to the Americas and Australia. Known for its bold use as a coffee substitute, this plant holds more than just a unique taste; it boasts a wide array of health benefits.