4 Mexican flowers you should include in your diet

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If you still haven’t decided if you should eat flowers on a daily basis, you should know that edible flowers are not only a good option to enhance the flavor of your dishes, they also have natural properties that can be beneficial for your health.

According to the nutriologist Fernanda Alvarado , edible flowers are a source of phytonutrients, which act as antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, they are rich in Vitamins A and C, which help the central nervous system and visual health. They are also known to reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress.

There are around 55 species of edible flowers known to man , though their consumption must be strictly regulated to ensure that they are free from pesticides, herbicides, and inorganic fertilizers.

Today we bring you a list of some of the most popular edible flowers in Mexico for you to include in your diet:

1- Cempasúchil : The traditional flower of the dead can also be eaten with tamales, atole, and in soup. It stimulates digestion and has relaxing properties.

4 Mexican flowers you should include in your diet

Photo: File photo/EL UNIVERSAL

2- Calabaza flower : Probably the most popular flower in Mexican gastronomy, you may eat it in soups or quesadillas. According to Mexico’s National Autonomous University (UNAM) it contains essential nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and ascorbic acid.

4 Mexican flowers you should include in your diet

Photo: File photo/EL UNIVERSAL

3- Opuntia flower : It is ideal for atole, though you can also eat it raw. It helps in the treatment of digestive problems and irritated bowel syndrome.