How we made the Herb Relaxation Art

Due to the phenomenal response to our recent herbal artworks, we thought we would create a behind the scenes look at how the herb art was created. We have also has a number of enquiries about the ingredients that went into making these beautiful images so we will look to answer all your questions about the herbs and their relaxing properties in this post.

Whenever we had the chance to show guests around our store and our produce people would always remark on the incredible textures and vibrancy of colours in all of our loose herbs. It had always seemed like a great opportunity to take advantage of these attributes by commissioning an artist to create something on behalf of Baldwins. When we came across Mustashrik we immediately knew that we would be the man for the job.

Here are some of the unedited photographs that were taken during the production process. They allow you to see in greater detail all the materials that have gone into making each mixed media artwork.

Some of our herbs (and a healthy dose of artistic talent) went in to creating stunning images like the one below but what are the individual herbs and what benefits do they have?

Rose Buds

Rose buds have been used to create the top of the dress and make a gorgeous bodice. Rose buds have a number of applications which make them a great topic for relaxation month.

Rose buds are used to fight headaches and as a tonic for the nerves. They are most commonly used to create teas and are a good source of vitamin C which is used to help support the immune system. Another side benefit is that they aid in the production of collagen which is a pivotal part in the maintenance of healthy hair and skin.

Here is a quick guide to making Rose Tea:

For dried petals:

1. Use 1 to 2 teaspoons of leaves for 1 cup.
2. Add buds to water which has been heated to just before boiling point
3. Allow the tea to steep for 2 to 3 minutes.

Baldwins sell both red and pink rose buds so be sure to experiment with both!

Rose Petals

Rose petals are the next down in the creation of the dress and are another great natural product to help relaxation.

Taking a bath with rose petals is a great way to fight anxiety and aid natural sleep. It is also an incredibly romantic gesture which you can treat someone with if you know they are under pressure. Another benefit of using rose petals in the bath are their effects as a natural skin toner which will help retain moisture in the skin.

Rose petals also have uses in cooking. If you enjoy spending time in the kitchen this can be another way to use rose petals to unwind. If you want to try something unusual, why not try baking Levantine Ma’amoul? After baking, sprinkle on some rose petals for a beautiful dessert which will impress all your friends and taste delicious. Here’s a recipe to get you started.

You can buy rose petals in a variety of sizes starting from £2.45 for 25g

Jasmine Flowers

Jasmine, also known as “moonlight of the grove”, is a proven sedative to treat anxiety. We have a number of products that use the restorative power of jasmine.

Jasmine Oil is one of the most versatile forms of jasmine and can be used in a number of different ways to help you relax. Using the oils in a bath or in a burner are two of the most popular methods but you can read more about the applications of jasmine oils here.

You can also buy Jasmine incense sticks to create a thoroughly relaxing atmosphere at home.

Jasmine is also available to buy in its dry form either as one of Dr. Stuart’s loose leaf teas or Baldwin’s own dried Jasmine Flowers.

Blue Mallow & Cornflower

Blue Mallow and Cornflower have been combined to make the deep blue mid-section of our model’s dress. Both of these can be made into a soothing tea. Blue Mallow also has the added benefits of helping to combat sore throats. Just boil it up with a bit of honey and gargle for a soothing treatment.

German Chamomile

Chamomile is one of the best known herbs when it comes to relaxation and therefore was an essential ingredient during relaxation month.

Here is a list of Chamomile’s main benefits:

- Sedative
- Carminative
- Anti-spasmodic
- Analgesic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiseptic

It is often used as an infusion, as a tea and aids sleep but, like most of the products featured, can also be used as an essential oil.

Passion Flower

Passion Flower completes the bottom of the dress and is the last ingredient in our relaxation artwork. Passion Flower is well regarding in its ability to relive anxiety. You can buy this in loose leaf; as a tincture or as capsules.

All of the herbs included in our artwork have beneficial properties that provide natural ways of soothing and calming in times of stress, discomfort and anxiety. Check out our previous blog posts in our Relaxation Month series of content if you’re looking for more ideas for ways to create a restful environment in a natural and healthful way.

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