Little May Bells, Fairy Cups, Ladder to Heaven – some of the appropriate nicknames for the flower that is well known to everyone as the shapely and strongly sweet-scented lily of the valley.
The delicate white flowers of the lily of the valley symbolize absolute purity, freshness, sincerity and discretion. But much more: it represents happiness, and it is customary in different cultures to give lily of the valley to a loved one on every 1st of May. This stems from an old Germanic custom of honouring the goddess of the coming spring and rising light with these summer heralding flowers.
Lily of the valley is still seen as a sign of love and is often found in bridal bouquets as a good luck charm. The flowers spread a wonderfully sweet fragrance, which has long been used in the perfume and cosmetic industry.
Lily of the Valley Origin & Characteristics
The Latin name of the lily of the valley, also called Mayflower, is Convallaria Majalis. This name is due to the fact that it grows mainly in deep valleys (Convallaria) and because its flowering time is in May (Majalis). The Mayflower is a perennial that spreads easily by means of a creeping rhizome, and grows abundantly in moist wooded areas, but is also a popular plant in gardens. A pair of broad-elliptical parallel leaves grow at the base of the flower stem. Each stem bears a cluster of six to twelve fragrant white flowers that grow like little bells, all nodding to one side of the stem.
Ancient writings from the 16th century show that the flowers and roots were known and used for its positive influence on the heart function.
Lily of the Valley Oil & Benefits
Lily of the valley essential oil is extracted from the sweet aromatic bell-shaped flowers by steam distillation. The encouraging fragrance ushers balance, calm, and optimism to the mind, body and spirit.
Lily of the valley contains flavonoids, saponins, citric, malic and cardenolides. Lily of the valley oil has several health benefits, it is antispasmodic, purifying, sedative and antipyretic in nature. It is claimed to stimulate the brain and strengthen poor memory.
The bright and clean fragrance of lily of the valley oil relieves anxiety and situational depressions. It is cooling and soothing with mild sedative properties which can promote a good night sleep.
Lily of the Valley Oil for the Body
Lily of the valley oil is suitable for skin care of both the face and body, it perfectly moisturizes and helps to promote skin regeneration. Due to its rejuvenating effect, fine lines and wrinkles are reduced, the skin tone is evened and pigmentation spots are clarified. Lily of the valley oil can be used as an additive to lotions, day or night creams, nourishing face masks, balms, conditioners and hair masks. The skin gains its well-cared-for appearance through the improvement of blood circulation in the subcutaneous tissues, providing the skin with sufficient nourishment and hydration.
Skin Care
Mayflower essential oil is deeply nourishing to the skin. Applied topically, blended with your usual skincare product, it will leave the skin feeling fresh and vital, while minor scars, sores, eczema and superficial wounds are healed.
Lily of the valley manages mild pain and inflammation, decreases any bacterial activity that may be present, and helps reduce unwanted muscle spasms.
Reduces Scars
Lily of the valley oil is extremely helpful in the treatment of various skin conditions. It is a suitable remedy for treating burns and other types of wounds that can leave a scar. Existing scar tissue can also be quickly and effectively reduced by applying this oil.
Lightens Skin Tone
Lily of the valley has been used to lighten the skin since the Middle Ages. It also has an astringent effect on the skin.
Manages Gout
Essential oil extracted from lily of the valley is extremely beneficial in treating gout. Topical application of the oil onto the affected areas, such as the joints and bones can help to reduce the inflammation and pain.
Reduces Fever
The antipyretic property of lily of the valley is beneficial in the treatment of fever. It helps by regulating blood circulation in the body, which in turn helps lower your body temperature.
Soothing Massage
Lily of the valley oil diluted with a carrier oil can be used for massage purposes. This mixture can enhance micro-circulation, and reduce muscle pain in affected areas.
Lily of the Valley Oil for the Mind
Improves Cognitive Function
Lily of the valley oil is said to improve the functioning of the nervous system. The herb’s anti-ageing properties help limit the onset of age-related cognitive decline, and it has a positive impact on improving memory as well. Lily of the valley is also used in treating epilepsy, and ageing of brain cells.
Treats Depression
The therapeutic properties possessed by the lily of the valley make it a useful remedy in the treatment of anxiety and depression. Lily of the valley essential oil aids in relaxing and calming the mind. Applying this oil on the back of your neck or on the temples can cure restlessness as well.
Mental Discomfort
Lily of the valley oil is used in aromatherapy to treat headaches, depression, and melancholy. It can be used to treat memory loss, apoplexy and epilepsy, and is used to strengthen the brain cells and to improve cognitive processes of the brain.
