I love primroses, they tell us that the tides of spring and summer are turning, and they have such a magical reputation. In Ireland they are called ‘fairy flowers’ and it is said that eating them is a sure way to see fairies. According to legend, if you touch a fairy rock with the right number of primroses in a posy, it will open to fairyland and fairy gifts, but the wrong number opens the door to doom.
This time of year I always make infused primrose oil to use in skin care products, as they are great for mature and dry skin. Simply pack a jam jar with flowers, and cover with vegetable oil. Pop the lid on and shake the jar every day for 2 weeks. Strain off the oil into a clean jar. You can use this as it is as a moisturiser, or you can turn it into a salve by warming it and adding beeswax or soy wax.
Not many people realise they both the leaves and flowers are edible, and make a pretty addition to salads. I also like to crystallise the flowers to use for pretty cake decorations.
A cup of tea, make from the leaves or flowers is a mild painkiller, and can help a headache. Use 2 tsp. herb and infuse in one cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink.
Caution: Avoid medicinal use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, sensitive to aspirin or taking anti-coagulant drugs.
