Cornflower
Centaurea cyanus
“Cornflower’s medicinal properties were first mentioned in the 12th-century writings of Hildegard of Bingen. Later, the herbalist Pierandrea Mattioli (1501-1577) recommended it on the basis of the Doctrine of Signatures, which held that a plant’s appearance indicated the ailments it would cure. Cornflower’s deep blue color symbolized healthy eyes - hence it became a treatment for eye ailments. (In France, the plant is called casse-lunette, or ‘break glasses.’) Cornflower is still used in French herbal medicine as a remedy for the eyes (the strained infusion is used as an eyewash, and the petals applied as a poultice), but opinion differs as to its efficacy. The petals are also taken as a bitter tonic and stimulant, improving digestion and possibly supporting the liver as well as improving resistance to infection. The seeds have been used as a mild laxative for children. A decoction of the leaves is used to treat rheumatic complaints.”
- The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants