ENGLISH NAME: Daisy
LATIN NAME: Bellis perennis
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Sedmikráska
obecná
Turkey: Çayır papatyası
Bulgaria: Обикновена паричка (Obiknovena
parichka)
Georgia: სამუდამო (Samudamo)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Common
throughout temperate Europe
Elevation: Sea level to
1,500 meters
Terrain: Meadows,
gardens, lawns, roadside verges, and grassy paths
DESCRIPTION:
Daisy is a small perennial herb, usually 10–20 cm tall, with a basal rosette of
spoon-shaped leaves. It produces solitary flower heads with white or pinkish
ray florets surrounding a yellow center of disc florets. The plant blooms
profusely from early spring through late summer and is a symbol of innocence
and resilience in many cultures.
USABLE PARTS: Flower
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used for its mild anti-inflammatory, astringent, and
wound-healing effects. It is also included in topical salves for bruises and
skin irritations, and sometimes consumed in teas for coughs or mild digestive
discomfort.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Generally considered safe. Rarely, mild allergic reactions may occur in
sensitive individuals, especially those allergic to other Asteraceae plants.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Can be combined with calendula, chamomile, or plantain in topical herbal
salves.
PREPARATION:
Flowers are harvested and dried for use in teas, skin salves, or decorative
uses. They may also be infused in oils for external applications.
HARVEST TIME:
Late spring to early summer, preferably during sunny, dry weather when the
flowers are fully open.
HARVEST METHOD:
Pick flower heads by hand or with scissors in the morning after dew has dried.
Avoid collecting damaged or overly mature blooms.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry in a shaded, airy place on screens or racks. Store in sealed containers in
a cool, dark location. Best used within one year.