Posted by Daisies have long been associated with love: most people have at least heard of the idea of picking the petals from a daisy saying, ‘Loves me, loves me not,’ to discover whether they are desired by the object of their affection. Daisies have also been linked to Venus, Aphrodite and Freya, among others; and sleeping with a daisy under your pillow is thought to encourage an absent lover to return. However, daisles aren’t just flowers for the frisky and lovelorn.
In addition to love, daisies are also associated with purity and innocence. Making daisy chains is a great way to plunge yourself into a childlike play state (and wearing a daisy chain will protect you from being abducted by fairies). It’s thought to be lucky to dream of daisies in spring but unlucky in winter.
As one of the flowers linked to the spring equinox, the daisy acts as a beacon that the lighter days are coming. It is also a sign of resilience, due to its ability to survive being trampled relatively unscathed.
Daisies are edible, and can be scattered in salads and drinks to add spring freshness – and a pretty garnish.
Daisies are also used in herbal medicine for treating joint pain, skin complaints and soothing wounds. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to verify the efficacy.
The name is thought to come from the daisy being the, ‘day’s eye’, as it closes at night. However, when it opens up by day, it adds beauty to any lawn.
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