What are the medicinal uses of wild daisy. How does it affect coughs and bronchitis. What are the potential side effects of using wild daisy. Are there any precautions to consider when using wild daisy.

The Versatile Wild Daisy: A Comprehensive Overview

Wild daisy, scientifically known as Bellis perennis, is a small perennial plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. This unassuming flower, often found dotting lawns and meadows, holds a wealth of potential health benefits that have piqued the interest of herbalists and researchers alike.

The plant’s name “daisy” is believed to be derived from “day’s eye,” referring to how the flowers open in sunlight. Its Latin name, Bellis perennis, speaks to both its beauty (Bellis) and its perennial nature (perennis). This hardy plant self-seeds freely, making it a persistent presence in many gardens and wild areas.

Botanical Description and Cultivation

The wild daisy is characterized by a rosette of spoon-shaped leaves that hug the ground. Its distinctive flowers arise on hairy stalks, featuring a single capitulum with a domed yellow central disc surrounded by white rays, sometimes tinged with pink. While it thrives in various conditions, it shows a preference for non-acidic soils and is commonly found in grasslands.

Cultivation of wild daisies is relatively straightforward, as they often occur naturally in lawns and garden beds. The main task for those wishing to encourage their growth is to limit weeding. Flowers can be harvested from April to October, depending on the climate.

Medicinal Properties and Traditional Uses of Wild Daisy

Wild daisy has been used in traditional medicine for a variety of purposes. The parts that grow above the ground are typically used to make medicinal tea, which has been employed to address several health concerns.

• Respiratory issues: Coughs and bronchitis
• Liver and kidney disorders
• Inflammation
• As an astringent (drying agent)
• As a “blood purifier”

Additionally, homeopathic preparations of wild daisy have been used for:

• Preventing complications during childbirth
• Alleviating pain and soreness
• Treating minor bleeding

When applied topically, wild daisy has been used for wounds and various skin conditions. This external application is supported by the presence of saponins in the plant, which are believed to stimulate collagen production in skin cells.

Scientific Evidence and Effectiveness of Wild Daisy

While wild daisy has a long history of traditional use, scientific research on its effectiveness is still in its early stages. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to conclusively support its use for many of the conditions it has been traditionally employed to treat.

Are there any conditions for which wild daisy has shown promising results? While more research is needed, some studies have indicated potential benefits for:

1. Wound healing: The saponins in wild daisy may promote skin cell regeneration.
2. Anti-inflammatory effects: Some preliminary studies suggest anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Antioxidant activity: Wild daisy contains compounds that may help combat oxidative stress.

It’s important to note that while these findings are encouraging, more robust clinical trials are necessary to establish the efficacy of wild daisy for these and other uses.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations

As with any herbal remedy, it’s crucial to consider potential side effects and safety concerns when using wild daisy. Currently, there is limited information available about the long-term safety of wild daisy use.

What are the known potential side effects of wild daisy? While rare, some individuals may experience:

• Allergic reactions, particularly in those sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family
• Skin irritation when applied topically
• Gastrointestinal discomfort when consumed in large quantities

It’s worth noting that the lack of comprehensive safety data doesn’t necessarily mean wild daisy is unsafe. Rather, it underscores the need for caution and consultation with a healthcare provider before using it medicinally.

Important Precautions When Using Wild Daisy

While wild daisy has been used traditionally for various purposes, certain precautions should be observed to ensure safe use.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

There is insufficient information about the safety of wild daisy during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As a precautionary measure, it’s advisable for pregnant and breastfeeding women to avoid using wild daisy medicinally.

Allergies

Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family should exercise caution when using wild daisy. This family includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and other daisies. If you have known allergies, consult with a healthcare provider before using wild daisy.

Drug Interactions

While specific drug interactions with wild daisy have not been well-documented, it’s always prudent to inform your healthcare provider about any herbal supplements you’re taking, including wild daisy.

Dosage and Administration of Wild Daisy

Determining the appropriate dose of wild daisy can be challenging due to the lack of standardized guidelines. The suitable dosage can vary based on factors such as age, health status, and the specific condition being treated.

How should wild daisy be administered? Common forms of administration include:

• Herbal tea: Made from dried flowers and leaves
• Tinctures: Alcohol-based extracts
• Topical preparations: Creams, ointments, or oils for external use

It’s crucial to follow the directions on product labels and consult with a healthcare professional or qualified herbalist to determine the most appropriate dosage and form of administration for your specific needs.

Wild Daisy in Modern Herbal Medicine

Despite the limited scientific evidence, wild daisy continues to be used in various forms of complementary and alternative medicine. Its potential benefits, coupled with its widespread availability and relatively low risk of side effects, make it an attractive option for those seeking natural remedies.

How is wild daisy being incorporated into modern herbal medicine? Some current applications include:

1. Homeopathic remedies: Used for bruising, childbirth-related issues, and emotional trauma
2. Skin care products: Incorporated into creams and balms for its potential wound-healing properties
3. Herbal teas: Often blended with other herbs for respiratory support and general wellness
4. Flower essence therapy: Used to address emotional and psychological issues

As research in the field of herbal medicine continues to evolve, it’s possible that new applications and benefits of wild daisy will be discovered, further cementing its place in the world of natural remedies.

Cultivating and Harvesting Wild Daisy for Personal Use

For those interested in using wild daisy for its potential health benefits, cultivating and harvesting the plant at home can be a rewarding experience. Not only does this ensure a fresh supply, but it also allows for greater control over the growing conditions and harvesting methods.

Cultivation Tips

How can you successfully grow wild daisies in your garden? Consider the following tips:

• Soil: Wild daisies prefer well-drained, slightly alkaline soil
• Sunlight: They thrive in full sun to partial shade
• Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged
• Spacing: Plant seeds or seedlings about 6 inches apart
• Maintenance: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming

Harvesting and Preservation

When it comes to harvesting wild daisies for medicinal use, timing and technique are crucial. Here are some guidelines:

1. Harvest flowers when they are fully open, typically in the morning after the dew has dried
2. Collect leaves throughout the growing season, choosing young, healthy leaves
3. Dry the harvested parts in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight
4. Store dried plant material in airtight containers in a cool, dark place

By following these practices, you can ensure that your homegrown wild daisies retain their potential medicinal properties for use in teas, tinctures, or topical preparations.

The Future of Wild Daisy in Herbal Medicine

As interest in natural remedies continues to grow, the potential of wild daisy as a medicinal plant is likely to attract more attention from researchers and herbalists alike. While its traditional uses provide a foundation for exploration, modern scientific methods offer the opportunity to validate these claims and potentially uncover new applications.

What areas of research hold promise for wild daisy? Some potential avenues include:

• Investigating its anti-inflammatory properties for chronic conditions
• Exploring its potential in skin care and wound healing
• Studying its effects on respiratory health
• Examining its role in supporting liver and kidney function

As research progresses, it’s possible that wild daisy could become a more widely recognized and utilized herb in complementary medicine. However, it’s important to approach these potential benefits with a balanced perspective, acknowledging both the promise and limitations of herbal remedies.

The Importance of Sustainable Harvesting

As interest in wild daisy grows, so too does the importance of sustainable harvesting practices. While the plant is common in many areas, over-harvesting from wild populations could potentially impact local ecosystems.

How can we ensure the sustainable use of wild daisy? Consider these approaches:

1. Cultivate wild daisies in home gardens or dedicated herb farms
2. Practice ethical wild-crafting, taking only what is needed and leaving plenty for regeneration
3. Support conservation efforts that protect natural habitats where wild daisies grow
4. Choose products from companies that prioritize sustainable sourcing

By adopting these practices, we can help ensure that wild daisy remains available for future generations while minimizing our impact on natural ecosystems.

Integrating Wild Daisy into a Holistic Wellness Approach

While wild daisy shows promise as a medicinal herb, it’s important to view its use as part of a broader approach to health and wellness. Herbal remedies can complement, but should not replace, conventional medical treatments or a healthy lifestyle.

How can wild daisy be incorporated into a holistic wellness routine? Consider these suggestions:

• Use wild daisy tea as part of a daily relaxation ritual
• Incorporate wild daisy-infused oils into a self-massage routine
• Explore the emotional benefits of wild daisy through flower essence therapy
• Add wild daisy to your diet as an edible flower in salads or as a garnish

Remember that the effectiveness of any herbal remedy can be enhanced by combining it with other healthy practices such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and adequate sleep.

The Role of Professional Guidance

While wild daisy is generally considered safe for most people, it’s crucial to seek professional guidance before using it medicinally, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. A qualified herbalist or healthcare provider can offer personalized advice on how to safely incorporate wild daisy into your wellness routine.

What questions should you ask a healthcare provider about using wild daisy? Consider the following:

1. Is wild daisy safe for me to use given my current health status and medications?
2. What form and dosage of wild daisy would be most appropriate for my needs?
3. Are there any potential interactions with my current treatments?
4. How long should I use wild daisy, and how will I know if it’s effective?
5. What signs should I watch for that might indicate an adverse reaction?

By engaging in open dialogue with healthcare professionals, you can ensure that your use of wild daisy is both safe and potentially beneficial to your overall health and wellbeing.

Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Wild daisy is a plant. The parts that grow above the ground are used to make medicinal tea.

People take wild daisy tea for coughs, bronchitis, disorders of the liver and kidneys, and swelling (inflammation). They also use it as a drying agent (astringent) and as a “blood purifier.” Some people take homeopathic wild daisy for preventing problems during childbirth, pain and soreness, and minor bleeding.

Wild daisy is sometimes applied directly to the skin for wounds and skin diseases.

Wild daisy contains chemicals called saponins. These chemicals might help skin cells produce more collagen.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Insufficient Evidence for

• Coughs.
• Bronchitis.
• Liver problems.
• Kidney problems.
• Swelling (inflammation).
• Wounds, when applied to the skin.
• Skin diseases, when applied to the skin.
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of wild daisy for these uses.

Side Effects

There isn’t enough information to know whether wild daisy is safe.

Special Precautions and Warnings

There isn’t enough information to know whether wild daisy is safe. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of wild daisy during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Allergy to ragweed, daisies, and related plants: Wild daisy may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae plant family. Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many others. If you have allergies, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before taking wild daisy.

Interactions ?

We currently have no information for WILD DAISY overview.

Dosing

The appropriate dose of wild daisy depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for wild daisy. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.

Daisy | The Plant Medicine School

Botanical description, cultivation and harvesting

A rosette of spoon shaped leaves that hugs the ground with the flowers arising on hairy stalks. The composite flower is a single capitulum with a domed yellow central disc surrounded by white rays (sometimes with a pink tinge) It does not like very acid soil and occurs in grassland. Ornamental forms with multiple rays and deeper colours are available. Native throughout Europe, naturalised in other places. There is rarely any need to cultivate other than limit weeding as it easily occurs in lawns and beds. Harvest of flwers is from April until around October, depending on the climate.

History, folklore, taste and energetics

Sour, due to the high vitamin C content. Daisy may well be a corruption of ‘day’s eye’ referring to how the flowers open in sunlight. Bellis probably refers to its beauty and perennis to the fact that it is both perennial and also self seeds freely and therefore once present is difficult to eradicate (not that one would want to).

It is as effective as Arnica for bruising ( and much easier to cultivate, as well as being native). It is a flower long associated with childhood and in homeopathy is used for bruising in childbirth both for the mother and baby, and birth trauma in general. It seems to help us recover from the bruisings and woundings of childhood at any age. Recently we harvested daisy heads to make an infused oil for a summer skin balm; when I went to see how the students we getting on they wwere all sitting in the daisy patch with daisy chains round their wrists, their necks, in their ears, on their heads with the most happy, innocent smiles on their faces (these students were aged 25-50 and had the expressions of delighted children on their faces).

There seems to be an affinity to the solar plexus, that healthy yellow central disc; an open clear solar plexus with pure, innocent energy radiating in the form of the white rays. Opening the solar plexus allows trapped emotional energy to move down to the earth to ground or clear up through the crown to dissipate. A clear solar plexus will allow the information we receive from the world to pass through and flow on. Daisy also seems to help us see clearly and to clear our eyes, our inner seeing of those traumatic images and memories that may cloud our inner vision and make us look at the world in a jaundice manner; it can also clear the rose tints that prevent us seeing people clearly, warts and all. There is a lot more to this plant; the way it roots firmly to the ground, is well grounded, and from there reaches up to bask in the sun.

Constituents

Saponins, essential oil, resin, mucilage, bitters, vitamin C.

Actions

• Vulnerary
• Astringent
• Expectorant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Cicatriscant

Traditional and current uses

Externally:

• Bruises
• Sprains
• Wounds
• Sun damge to skin
• Cuts and grazes
• Boils
• Skin disorders

Internally:

• Bronchitis
• Bronchial catarrh
• Gastro-enteritis

Recipes

Plantain and Daisy Skin food

Harvest equal quantities of plantain leaves (either ribwort or larged leaved) and daisy flowers and place in a pyrex bowl in a bain marie. Cover with olive oil and simmer for 2 hours. Leave over night and then press off. This may be used simply after bathing or showering to nourish the skin. It can also be use to prepare a bumps and bruises salve by adding 35g beeswax per 500 ml and 2% each lavender and tea tree essential oils.

Daisy flowers ( an a few young leaves) can be added to forage salads and are rich in vitamin C. 

Daisy tea can be taken internally for the chest and stomach. The decoction or infusion can also be added to the bath.

Files for download

Daisy for the master: is it difficult to plant and grow a legendary crop?

Growing daisies does not require special skill: a little bit of effort and patience is enough for mother-of-pearl pink or pearl-white flowers to quickly scatter in the foreground of garden compositions, framing flower beds and flower beds with their delicate appearance. The unpretentious culture is famous for its high frost resistance, its modest charm and ease of cultivation managed to win many hearts.

The content of the article

1.

Growing seedlings of daisies from seeds

2.

Planting perennial daisies in open ground

2.1.

When to plant daisies

2.2.

How to plant daisies

3.

Caring for perennial daisies in the open field

3.1.

Watering

3.2.

top dressing

3.3.

Transfer

3.4.

Daisies in winter

4.

Diseases and pests

5.

Reproduction of daisies

6.

Daisies in landscape design

Growing seedlings of daisies from seeds

• Before sowing seeds, it is necessary to moisten the soil mixture well, which is filled with a container for growing seedlings.

• When sowing, it is important to observe an interval between seeds of about 5 cm, seeds slightly buried in the soil need only be lightly sprinkled with soil mixture and moistened using a spray bottle.

• After 10 days, the first seedlings appear: during the entire period of their waiting, it is important not to forget to regularly moisten the soil, and keep the container in a warm and bright place.

• With the appearance of the first leaves, the growing seedlings can be dived.

• Young plants should receive maximum light so that insufficient light does not cause stems to stretch.

The advantage of the seedling method, in contrast to sowing in open soil, is the opportunity to admire the flowering of the plant already in the current season.

Outdoor planting of perennial daisies

The plant likes good light, so a sunny place is best for planting. However, an excess of the scorching midday sun can scorch delicate inflorescences and dry out the foliage, and this must be taken into account when choosing a site. If you plant a flower in a small penumbra, then the bushes will stretch a little more than when planting in a site with a sufficient level of lighting. A crop that does not have strict requirements for soil composition will show good growth rates when planted in any cultivated and well-drained soil. The best option is structured enriched loams.

When to plant daisies

Seedlings germinated from seeds sown in March or April can be planted in open soil in the last days of spring, in temperate latitudes June planting is also acceptable. At the same time, the divisions obtained as a result of the division of an adult bush are planted. Delenki can be planted on the site in the last days of summer.

How to plant daisies

Germinated seedlings or cuttings should be planted in open soil, keeping a clod of earth around the roots so as not to injure them. The interval between planting pits can reach from 10 to 20 cm. Holes for planting should be made shallow. When planting, you must first carefully tamp the ground with which the holes are covered, and then moisten the young plants with high quality.

Caring for perennial daisies in the open field

After watering, loosen the soil at the planting site to provide the root system with good oxygen access. Loosening the soil is recommended to be combined with weeding. Young plants that have recently transplanted into open soil will need to be weeded. Over time, perennial bushes will begin to grow, displacing weeds from the site on their own. To increase the flowering period, it is necessary to regularly prune fading inflorescences so that seeds do not have time to ripen in them. This will additionally save the strength of the plant and prevent unwanted self-seeding.

Watering

The shallow root system of plants dictates the most optimal watering regime for daisies: it is important to maintain regular moistening, avoiding overdrying of the soil or stagnant moisture in the planting sites. The need for regular high-quality watering increases significantly during the summer drought.

The lack of moisture immediately affects the condition of the inflorescences, which can quickly grind and lose their doubleness.

Top dressing

Plants quickly respond to well-timed and balanced fertilizing, which improves the decorative effect of the culture.

• Early spring top dressing is carried out immediately after the snow melts, at this time of the year it is recommended to use nitrogen and potash fertilizers applied in the form of a solution.

• The beginning of the budding period serves as a signal for the introduction of complex mineral fertilizers into the soil.

• Flowering bushes can be fed with phosphorus-potassium fertilizers.

• The plant will also react favorably to top dressing with organic matter, for example, an aqueous solution of rotted cow manure.

It is important to observe the recommended balance of applied mineral fertilizers: an excess of nitrogen can lead to the growth of greenery at the expense of blooming flowers.

Transplantation

A feature of the plant is its ability to successfully transfer transplantation during the periods of budding and flowering. Experienced gardeners recommend replanting the crop at least once every two years: such a transplant regime serves as a powerful incentive for subsequent lush flowering and the preservation of all decorative characteristics by the plant. A good solution is to combine a plant transplant with the division of an adult bush into divisions. Rejuvenated bushes will quickly demonstrate a real flowering extravaganza.

Daisies in winter

The crop is capable of overwintering without problems, but vulnerable roots of young plants may require additional preparation for winter cold. Peat, humus or sawdust can be sprinkled under the crops – these materials can protect the bushes in a little snowy winter. In anticipation of the winter season, there is no need to cut the plants at the root, the bushes go under the snow with leaves. With the threat of a harsh and snowless winter, you can additionally cover the plantings with spruce paws.

Diseases and pests

If powdery mildew or gray rot occurs, the infected fragments must be urgently removed and destroyed, and the plants themselves should be sprayed with tincture of garlic or horsetail. In case of severe infection with fungal diseases, it is recommended to use fungicides. The culture can become prey for spider mites, aphids, slugs. Insecticides are effective in killing pests.

Propagation of daisies

In addition to seed propagation and division of the bush, the culture can be propagated by cuttings, which are cut from side shoots. Rooting of cuttings occurs in open soil under a layer of covering material. At the end of summer, rooted planting material is ready for planting in a permanent place.

Daisies in landscape design

The attractiveness of a low-growing culture allows it to be used as a spectacular foreground of flowerbeds and borders, forming borders. The compactness and picturesqueness of the bushes makes it possible to grow them not only in open soil, but also in containers and even baskets, which are components of the original portable garden.

How to plant and care for daisies

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July 7, 2022

Sow this flower once and it will live in your garden forever.

When to plant daisies

This plant is considered a perennial and blooms only the next year after planting. They start planting when the threat of return frosts is gone and stable heat is established. In most regions, daisies are planted from late May to early August.

How to choose a place for planting daisies

Daisies like to grow in full sun, but do well in partial shade. True, in this case, long peduncles will be produced.

They are so hardy that they can grow just about anywhere. For example, they can be found along the forest, where hardly anyone cared about the fertility of the soil.

Photo: SpelaG91 / Shutterstock

Therefore, there is no need to pre-fertilize the flower bed. The only thing is that you can make the earth looser. To do this, add 10 liters of sand to each square meter of the flower bed, dig a shovel onto a bayonet and level the surface with a rake. Pour plenty of water over the soil and start sowing.

How to plant daisies

Seeds do not need to be soaked. They need light to germinate, so the flower is sown in a superficial way. By the way, then the daisies will breed on their own – you will meet them in different parts of the garden.

Sow daisies

Spread the seeds evenly over the surface of the soil. Lightly cover the crops with dry sand – the layer should be “translucent”, literally 1 mm – and lightly tamp with the palm of your hand.

Frame: Elena World of seeds and flowers / YouTube

Moisten the flower bed with water from a spray bottle so as not to bury the small seeds.

Wait for seedlings

Photo: Avril Burton / Shutterstock

They can appear in 3-5 days. Until the sprouts hatch, moisten the crops twice a day with water from a spray bottle. In hot weather, you may need to do this more often. Do not let the surface of the soil dry out, it must always be moist for the seeds to germinate.

Thin out seedlings

When sprouts put out two or three leaves, pull out the extra ones, leaving a distance of about 5 cm between plants. This way the daisies will not crowd each other out and can fully develop.

How to care for daisies

Daisies can grow without your attention. But if you take a little time, they will bloom with a lush carpet.

Water the daisies

Do this when the soil is dry. Water the plants early in the morning or in the evening at sunset. 0.5 liters of water is enough for one plant. You can use the sprinkling method, when the plants are abundantly sprayed with a spray bottle. A special hose nozzle with a water dispersion mode will save you a lot of time and effort.

Loosen and weed the flower bed

Weeding is especially important when the plants are young. Adult daisies grow quite vigorously and can crowd out weeds on their own.

But periodic loosening of the soil will provide the roots with access to oxygen. Therefore, once every 1-2 weeks, beat the soil around the plants with a hoe with small teeth.

Feed your daisies

Fertilize only when the plant looks deficient. In this case, the leaves may turn yellow or the number of peduncles may sharply decrease.

To solve the problem, use a complex mineral fertilizer with an even distribution of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium – for example, 18:18:18. Before use, look at the instructions on the package for how to properly make the solution and apply the product – depending on the manufacturer, the recommendations may vary.