The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Sunflower
The Power of Flowers: Flower Essences

ORIGINS

The genus Helianthus comprises about seventy species of sunflowers, most of which are native to North America; a few are native to South America. This tall plant has a large, round, yellow flower head with petals reminiscent of the rays of the sun. The name comes from the Greek: helios (sun) plus anthos (flower).

HISTORY/LORE

Evidence suggests that Native Americans cultivated sunflowers in present-day Arizona and New Mexico as early as 3000 B.C.E., perhaps even before corn. They ate the seeds, ground them to make flour, and extracted oil from them. The Incas of South America treasured the flower for its resemblance to the sun and associated it with Inti, the sun god. The Spanish brought sunflowers to Europe in the 1500s.

USES

Sunflower flower essence harnesses our inner radiance and lets it shine outward. It helps to balance the crown chakra, which controls mental energy and is our connection to the divine. It also fosters courage and self-confidence in those of us who mask our true selves hoping for love and acceptance. This flower essence celebrates each of us as a unique individual.