El cornflower (Centaurea cyanus), also known as tile, is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family (Compositae). Native to Europe and western Asia, it is currently found in many places around the world and is appreciated both for the beauty of its flowers and for its traditional and medicinal uses. Its striking petals, mainly deep blue although they can also be white or pink, make it stand out in gardens, fields and roadsides, where it plays an important role in the biodiversity local by attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Description and botanical characteristics of the cornflower
El cornflower can reach between 40 and 100 cm highIts stem is erect, branched, and has fine hairs. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem, with the lower ones more divided and the upper ones linear and sharp. Flowering occurs mainly from spring to late summer, depending on the planting date and the regional climate. The inflorescences, or heads, are formed by striking blue peripheral flowers (although white or pink varieties exist) and smaller, bluish-purple central flowers.
The fruit of the cornflower is a achene Whitish with a small tuft that facilitates its dispersal. This species is especially common in meadows, abandoned fields, roadsides, and old cereal fields, where it often appears before and after harvesting.
Optimal conditions and care for growing cornflowers
- Light: The cornflower should be planted in a sunny or semi-shaded area. It needs at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and development.
- Temperature: It prefers temperate climates but is known for its good adaptation to dry conditions. It tolerates occasional frost, although it requires more hydration during the warmer months. You can learn more about other plants with blue flowers which also tolerate different environmental conditions.
- Ground: The plant grows well in universal substrate mixed with about 30% perlite to improve drainage. Although it's hardy and undemanding, a slightly sandy, well-aerated soil provides better results. If the soil is compact or clayey, adding sand is recommended to facilitate aeration and drainage.
- Irrigation: In spring and summer you have to water some 3 times per week, keeping the substrate slightly moist. In winter, space waterings according to ambient conditions to avoid waterlogging.
To sow the cornflower directly in the garden, it is advisable to sow it between the spring and early summerThe seeds are then lightly covered with substrate, avoiding excessive depth. In addition to its use in flowerbeds, the cornflower adapts well to pots, planters, and as a cut flower for long-lasting floral arrangements. Due to its hardiness and low maintenance, it is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy vibrant flowers with minimal effort.
Collection, conservation and part used
The most valuable part of the cornflower for medicinal and cosmetic uses is the flower, especially the flower heads collected in full bloom, when the concentration of active ingredients It is at its peak. Harvesting takes place during the summer, carefully separating the radial flowers and flowering tops. It is essential dry them in the shade in a ventilated place, avoiding direct exposure to the sun, and store them in airtight jars in dark places to preserve their properties.
Chemical composition and active ingredients
Cornflower flowers contain a combination of mucilages, tannins, Flavonoids (such as quercimethrin), anthocyanins (such as pelargoline and cyanine, responsible for the intense blue color), sesquiterpene lactones (centaurine or cnicine), acetylenic compounds, coumarins (esculetin-7-glucoside), Mineral salts and bitter principles. This phytocomposite richness justifies its use in both phytotherapy and natural cosmetics.
Medicinal properties and benefits of cornflower
- Anti-inflammatory: Various studies identify that cornflower extracts, thanks to their polysaccharides and flavonoids, are useful for relieving skin and eye inflammations.
- Astringent: Its tannins make it an ideal natural tonic for tightening pores and balancing sebum production, and it is widely used for oily, acne-prone skin.
- Natural antibiotic: The cornflower has components that act against certain microorganisms, helping to calm mild infections on the skin and mucous membranes.
- Diuretic and purifying: Internally, cornflower infusion has traditionally been used as a diuretic to eliminate toxins and combat fluid retention.
- Appetite stimulant: Thanks to its bitter principle, it can be used in cases of slow digestions or lack of appetite.
- Antioxidant: The action of organic acids and anthocyanins helps counteract free radicals and prevents cellular aging.
- Antipyretic: Its extracts have been used to reduce fever in traditional practices.
Properties and cosmetic uses of the blue cornflower
Within the cosmetic field, the blue cornflower It is especially appreciated in the formulation of products for sensitive skin and for the eye care. It is used in floral waters, tonics, masks and creams thanks to its soothing, moisturizing and decongestant action. cornflower hydrolate, obtained by steam distillation, is a key ingredient in eye drops, facial tonics and makeup removers, standing out for its gentleness and safety for the most delicate skin and mucous membranes.
- Soothing and anti-inflammatory action: It helps relieve redness, irritation, and burning, restoring comfort to sensitized skin, especially after exposure to cold or sudden changes in temperature.
- Reduction of bags and dark circles: Applied in compresses or with gauze over the eyes, it reduces inflammation and attenuates the appearance of dark circles.
- Use in masks: Mixed with clays, it enhances the soothing and purifying effect of face masks for all skin types, even the most reactive.
- Commercial products: Many organic brands select specific varieties of blue cornflower, cultivated using sustainable techniques to ensure their richness in active ingredients and minimize the environmental impact during extraction.
Benefits of cornflower for eye health
The use of cornflower in natural ophthalmology is one of the oldest and most recognized. Its soothing, anti-inflammatory and vasoprotective properties They explain their traditional use to relieve eye discomfort and improve visual health.
- Relief for tired eyes: Highly recommended for those who spend long hours in front of screens, it helps combat dryness, itching, and eye fatigue. You can also explore other plants with pink flowers that contribute to decorating and purifying spaces.
- Eye baths and eye drops: Cornflower infusions, alone or combined with eyebright, elderberry, and Alexandrian rose, are applied in warm compresses to reduce inflammation, mild conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and styes.
- Improved microcirculation: Its pigments stimulate microcirculation, helping to improve visual acuity and promoting the regeneration of the retina's vascular layer.
- Reduction of inflammation: It is helpful for minor infections, a feeling of grit in the eyes, and to reduce redness of the eyelids.
Other applications and curiosities
- The cornflower is a decorative ingredient in recipes and salads, as its petals are edible and provide a vivid blue color highly appreciated in creative cooking.
- In popular tradition, it was called "broken glasses water" because of its widespread use in treating minor vision problems.
- Due to its astringent and antibiotic properties, it can also be used in mouthwashes to relieve ailments such as sores, irritated gums, or lip inflammation.
- Its diuretic and stimulating action makes it indicated in cases of rheumatism, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, anorexia and capillary fragility.
How to prepare and use cornflower
The most common uses of cornflower include:
- Ocular infusion: It is prepared with dried cornflower flowers, alone or combined with other plants such as eyebright, elderberry, and rose petals. The mixture is boiled, allowed to steep, and filtered. The liquid is applied to closed eyes with gauze several times a day.
- Remedy for styes: A decoction of oak bark and cornflower flowers, applied with warm compresses, helps accelerate the disappearance and maturation of the stye.
- Facial tonic: Cornflower water is an excellent toner for combination or oily skin after daily hygiene. Continued application helps tighten pores and soothe the skin after shaving or waxing.
- Natural eye drops: Pure cornflower hydrolate can be used as an ingredient in eye drops and master preparations, upon professional recommendation.
- In food: The petals, being non-toxic, can be used as decoration in pastries, salads and drinks.
Contraindications and precautions
- Allergic reactions: People with allergies to other plants in the Asteraceae family (such as calendula or chamomile) may experience skin or digestive reactions.
- Use during pregnancy and lactation: Use is not recommended at these stages, as there is insufficient research on safety in these cases.
- Interactions and side effects: Although it's generally safe when used topically or in mild infusions, excessive use can cause mild digestive discomfort such as nausea. People undergoing medical treatment or suffering from chronic illnesses should consult their doctor before incorporating cornflower into their routine.
The versatility of the cornflower makes it an essential plant in both gardens and natural medicine cabinets. Its ease of cultivation, resistance And the many benefits for the skin and eyes make the cornflower one of the most prized wildflowers. Furthermore, its sustainable use promotes biodiversity and ensures the production of organic extracts for daily well-being. If you're looking for an ornamental and therapeutic option, the cornflower deserves a prominent place in your home and personal care routine.
