Orchid

The majestic, graceful and bright flower is called an orchid. For many lovers of this plant, tulips, lilies and even roses look too simple next to the orchid. There are many legends and myths about these beautiful colors, and fiction and scientific articles have also been written about them.

Interestingly, some species of orchids are even used for food purposes. For example, in Mexico, Lelia pseudobulbs are consumed, while French chefs in the 19th century added fragrant Angrecum leaves to creams and ice cream, and also used them as a substitute for tea.

However, another variety of orchids, vanilla, still has the greatest culinary significance. This famous spice has long gained worldwide fame and popularity. Central America is considered the birthplace of this species of orchid, and in general, the indigenous people of Mexico have used vanilla for centuries to flavour the cocoa drink. It entered European territory thanks to the Spanish conquerors and immediately became one of the most sought-after spices.

Orchid species

Today, dozens of species and hybrids of orchids are known, among which hundreds of varieties stand out. It is rather problematic for an inexperienced person to understand them, but it is definitely worth just admiring these amazing plants in their beauty.

So, one of the most common species of orchids is called Falenopsis. In addition, orchids called Wanda, Cattlea, Dendrobium, Tolumnia, Oncidium, Erangis, Celogina, Coriantes, Cimbidium, Trichopilia, Zigopetalum and many others deserve attention.

The color of different species of orchids can range from light to dark green, can be either silver-gray or dark cherry, almost black. Despite the fact that the miniature cream-white flowers of some varieties of this plant do not amaze with beauty, they have a pleasant aroma and are quite elegant.

Orchid benefits

For human health, certain types of orchids can be useful, for example, the Venus shoe. So, in folk medicine, a decoction from the above-ground part of this plant is used. The benefits of the orchid in this case are its ability to act as an effective plant remedy for mental disorders, headaches, epilepsy, insomnia, lack of appetite, diseases of the nervous system, fainting and seizures. In addition, this decoction helps to maintain the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system.

Orchid harms

Like some other plant-based foods, the orchid also has a number of contraindications to use. In particular, the harm of the orchid is due to the fact that many varieties of this plant are poisonous, therefore, before use as a medicine, you should always consult a specialist.