FLOWERS AS FOOD AND MEDICINE: TRADITION MEETS NUTRACEUTICAL SCIENCE

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Keywords

  • Edible flowers
  • Health
  • Nutraceuticals
  • Phytochemicals

Magazine: April-June 2025

Page: 78 - 81

Volume: 5

Issue: 2

Issue Date: 10 July 2025

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Abstract

Nutraceuticals—foods or components offering medical and health benefits—are gaining prominence in disease prevention and wellness. Edible flowers are emerging as rich sources of nutraceutical compounds such as carotenoids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, vitamins, and essential oils. These bioactives offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, and neuroprotective effects. Flowers like marigold, rose, chrysanthemum, and Viola have long-standing medicinal and culinary uses. As health awareness rises, India’s nutraceutical market is projected to reach USD 28 billion by 2025. Driven by sustainability, innovation, and shifting regulations, edible flowers hold strong potential in the global nutraceutical industry as natural, functional ingredients for personalized nutrition.