The Fragrant Lilac - Will Fill your Garden and House with Color and Scent
by Feli Chic'Cuisine
What could be more nostalgic than the scent of lilacs? On essential walks, city streets, hidden alleys or over the walls of neighbours’ gardens, you will notice this fragrant flower, lilac, that fills the air with its colour and scent. A lilac scent seems to embody the quintessential scent of childhood, bringing us happy memories.
Known as the "Queen of Shrubs," lilacs - Syringa vulgaris - are part of the olive family, and they are some of the hardiest and most fragrant flowering bushes that bloom in the springtime.
Lilacs come in seven colors: violet, blue, lilac, pink, red, purple and white. The purple lilacs have the strongest scent compared to other colors.
Give yourself a moment to enjoy the appealing melancholy of this antique flower as it burst into full bloom this week.The lilac blooms early, but their beauty fades quickly.The scent vanishes almost as quickly as it appeared as spring turns into summer.
The Meaning and Symbolism of the Lilac
Lilacs were believed to symbolize the first emotions of love and romance in Victorian flower dictionaries. As one of spring’s earliest blooms, its fragrance is deeply evocative but hard to describe.
Lilacs also symbolize confidence, and there are many meanings that lilacs have by colour.
Lilac, that is a light purple, symbolizes a first love;
Violet lilacs symbolize spirituality;
White lilacs symbolize purity and innocence;
Blue lilacs symbolize happiness and tranquility;
Magenta lilacs symbolize love and passion.
Lilac in Literature
Lilacs have long captivated the imagination of artists across various mediums. Renowned Impressionists like Vincent Van Gogh and Claude Monet found inspiration in the delicate allure of lilacs, immortalizing their beauty in celebrated paintings.
In addition to visual art, lilacs have left an indelible mark on literature. The eminent French writer Marcel Proust vividly recalled the enchanting allure of lilacs in his memories. He marveled at their oriental and opulent beauty, often reflecting on the heart-shaped leaves that added to their charm.
From their intoxicating fragrance to their delicate blooms, lilacs continue to serve as a timeless muse for writers exploring the complexities of human experience and nature's wonders.
The Power of Lilacs: Uses and Benefits
Lilacs aren't just admired for their beauty; they also offer a host of practical uses and therapeutic benefits.
The enchanting scent of lilacs, intensified by full sun exposure, has long been cherished in the world of perfumery and soap making. Extracted into essential oil, lilacs serve as a versatile ingredient with a range of health-promoting properties.
Lilac essential oil is renowned for its ability to treat various skin disorders, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It can effectively combat bacterial and fungal infections, making it a valuable addition to skincare regimens.
Additionally, lilac oil is known to soothe stomach disorders and aid in reducing fever, offering relief from common ailments.
Beyond its physical benefits, the fragrance of lilacs has been linked to mental well-being. The scent of lilacs is believed to have mood-lifting effects, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety while promoting relaxation and stress relief.
Discovering Lilac Bliss on a Morning Stroll
This morning, while walking my dog in the countryside, I was enveloped in the most delightful fragrance carried on the breeze. Curious, I followed the scent until I stumbled upon a magnificent bush of lilacs nestled amidst the lush greenery.
Drawn to their beauty and fragrance, I couldn't resist plucking a few blooms to take home and enjoy. It's a wonderful feeling to connect with nature in such a simple yet profound way.
Of course, I made sure to gather them responsibly, mindful not to harm the plant in any way. It's important to appreciate nature responsibly, ensuring we admire its beauty without causing harm.
Back home, I placed the freshly picked lilacs in a vase, where they filled the room with their sweet aroma. It's incredible how something as small as a flower can bring so much joy and beauty into our lives.
Cut flowers in the early morning before the sun becomes harsh. Crush the bottom of the stems and put the flowers in a vase of warm water.
The smell of moist earth and lilacs hung in the air like wisps of the past and hints of the future. - Margaret Millar (1947). “Experiment in Springtime: A Novel”, New York : Random House
*All Photographs on Feli Chic'Cuisine, signed Feli Chic'Cuisine are copyrighted.
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