Edible flowers from Southeast Asia: a review

Klaudie Vaňková

Bakalářská práce

Abstract:

Edible flowers have been used for centuries in Southeast Asia, both in traditional cuisine and medicinal practices. This study aims to systematically review edible flowers, centring on their botanical classification, culinary aspects, phytochemical profile and biological activity. Data were collected from scientific databases, PROSEA, and relevant literature. A total of 74 edible flower species from 42 plant families were identified, demonstrating high taxonomic diversity. These flowers are frequently used in teas, desserts, rice dishes, cosmetics, and traditional medicine. Many contain bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins, which are associated with biological effects. In addition to the research table, four species (Clitoria ternatea Linn., Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn., Musa acuminata Colla, and Moringa oleifera Lam.) were selected for in-depth analysis to highlight their nutritional, pharmacological, and potential modern or future applications. The results suggest edible flowers have diverse multifunctional roles, though further research on their nutritional value and safety is necessary.

Keywords

Southeast Asia, culinary uses, floriphagia, traditional gastrnomy, Ethnobotany

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 18. 4. 2026

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Obhajoba proběhla 29. 5. 2026
• Vedoucí: Ing. Olga Leuner, Ph.D.
• Oponent: Markéta Houdková, Ph.D.

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Fakulta tropického zemědělství

Bakalářský studijní program:
Tropické zemědělství