Flowers-an integral part of the ecosystem.

Mankind has been always fascinated with flowers. The relationship has existed for ages and flowers are usually appreciated for their looks and fragrances. But flowers have much more to offer and not only their captivating looks and fragrances. Flowers are also used in cooking, medicines and beauty products. Some flowers are edible and they are so good to eat. People have used them in the kitchen through the ages and they can be found in many regional cuisines such as Asian and European cuisines. Their popularity lies on their unique and resplendent flavors and the texture and colors they arrive in.  Flowers are usually used in cooking to induce taste, aroma or color. They are versatile and can be served as main dishes, in salads or even as desserts. Squash Blossom, Avocado, and Butter Lettuce are usually used in salads and Violet Flower cupcakes are a popular dessert. People also brew flowers tea and jasmine, globe amaranth, chrysanthemum, lily and hibiscus are some common flowers used as teas. Flowers can also be used in tonic, infusions and beverages.

Mother Nature is a wonderful chemist with lots of medicines at her disposal. People have always used flowers as medicines in many cultures around the world. They still play an important role in herbal medicine and alternative therapies today. Aromatherapy also known as essential oil therapy uses flower essences dissolved in oil to enhance and promote health.  Some of the most common flowers used in medicine are carnations, dandelions and jasmines. Even the common rose is used to increase blood circulation and relieve depression. Flowers are used as an ingredient in many cosmetics and beauty products.

Apart from their beneficial usages for humans, flowers also play an integral role in the ecosystem. Flowers attract insects and birds as they provide a food source for them. The seeds of the flower are then pollinated by birds or insects. It is a form of mutual co-operation or a symbiotic relationship. Without the birds and insects, flowers won’t be able to pollinate or reproduce. The Insects and birds in turn utilize flowers for their own survival and growth while also keeping away predators and maintain a healthy ecosystem of flowers. Flowers provide new plant life which helps keep the ecosystem growing as well as the food source local insects and birds. They are an integral part of the ecosystem and without flowers the whole system will collapse.

Flowers with their myriad usages are also integral to many human celebrations and festivals. They are popular as gifts and their demand keeps increasing day by day. In view of this, many florists have extended their services online and nowadays people can send flowers to Chennai and other destinations in the country without even moving out from the house. With these internet florists and gifts delivery services, people abroad can also arrange an online flower delivery in India for any special occasion.