Nature is the world’s best artist and chemist. Flowers are one proof of that. Flowers are beautiful, vibrant, and symbolic. They can be powerful, natural healers due to their variety of compounds and actives that have medicinal properties. Today, we will focus on two very special flowers: Flamboyant & Frangipani; and their benefits.
What is a Flamboyant Flower?
The Flamboyant tree (delonix regia) is a strikingly beautiful tree with fern-like leaves and fiery, orange-red flowers. It is known by many names as it grows in many different countries. It is sometimes called the royal poinciana, flame tree, and phoenix flower. It is native to Madagascar but can be found in many tropical and subtropical countries including the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The “Flame of the Forest” is an aesthetically pleasing addition to any landscape providing ample shade and a bed of bright, orange-red flowers below its broad canopy. However, it is not only ornamental. The royal poinciana has medicinal properties that offer a wide range of health benefits. Its various compounds include anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antioxidant, and antifungal properties.
How Can the Flamboyant Tree Help Our Skin?
The antioxidant properties of the Flame tree help protect the skin from oxidative and environmental stress including sun damage. Severe sun damage can cause freckles, age spots, and wrinkles. Prolonged sun exposure increases the risk of melanoma, the worst type of skin cancer. Therefore, protection from intense UV rays and decreased risk of sun damage are important.
Flamboyant flower extracts also promote the maintenance of healthy skin by boosting collagen production. They have a natural active compound that provides a regenerative ability to skin cells. Studies have shown that the catechin found in flame tree flowers stimulates oxygen flow which ultimately enables the skin to regenerate naturally.
Another benefit of using products with royal poinciana extract is their ability to soothe red, irritated skin and promote faster wound-healing. The flamboyant flower extract is a great addition to a cleanser or face scrub because its properties can balance oily skin and is deeply cleansing thus promoting clearer skin.
The antibacterial properties can combat stubborn acne, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and prevent breakouts. It has the power to brighten your complexion by treating dark spots, evening tone, and leaving your skin with a radiant glow.
You might find the flamboyant flower extract in a facial toner or mist, face mask, body lotion or oil, cleansers, or scrubs. It can be formulated for all skin types.
What is a Frangipani Flower?
Frangipani (Plumeria Alba), otherwise known as the West Indian Jasmine, can be found growing in the Caribbean, South and Central Americas. The flowers are commonly used to make leis in Hawaii. They were popularized in the 16th century when Marquis Frangipani, a nobleman, made a popular perfume using Frangipani flowers. This bright colored flower is stunning with its pink-white or red-white petals and yellow center.
What are the Skincare Benefits of Frangipani?
Frangipani is traditionally known for its anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It aids in rejuvenating and moisturizing dry skin by binding onto water molecules. This makes the skin soft and supple.
The antioxidant properties can also treat skin irritations and inflammation. It has an organic substance called lignin which keeps the skin toned. It also naturally improves the skin’s ability to maintain hydration.
Additional benefits of the antioxidant properties include supporting healthy collagen production, stimulating regenerative cell growth, and smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. This makes extracts from the frangipani plant an excellent anti-aging ingredient.
The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can combat bacteria and redness which are well-known for causing acne, blemishes, and breakouts. Frangipani oil is a natural astringent that helps to tighten the skin. Thereby reducing the appearance of enlarged pores and improving the skin’s texture.
Due to the medicinal properties of frangipani, it can also be effective in treating skin conditions and reducing the appearance of scars and stretch marks. The antimicrobial properties make it a great addition to a natural first aid kit. It can be used to combat harmful bacteria and viruses, and to treat minor cuts, scrapes, and insect bites.
Essential Uses of Frangipani Oil
Frangipani essential oil is extracted from frangipani flowers by steam distillation. This oil possesses anti-inflammatory properties. When massaged into the skin it can treat extreme back pain, joint pain, while soothing tense muscles, and headaches.
This essential oil is known for its sweet, floral fragrance and believed to calm the mind and soothe the body. It is commonly used in aromatherapy to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. By promoting tranquil vibes, the frangipani oil can soothe troubled nerves and promote restful sleep. It is also believed to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
It is important to note that frangipani essential oil should be used with caution, as it can cause skin irritation in some individuals. It is always recommended to do a patch test before using any new essential oil. To prevent skin irritation and sensitivity, it is recommended to dilute the essential oil before application. Diluting the oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, can help prevent skin irritation.
Conclusion
Both the Flamboyant tree and Frangipani have numerous medicinal properties that make a valuable addition to any natural skincare routine. Extracts from either plant offer multiple benefits to all skin types. They are rich in anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The Flamboyant tree has other properties that can treat a variety of health conditions that the Frangipani plant cannot. However, both can achieve different and complementary skincare goals.