Edible flowers in Mexico: a review

Julie Červená

Bakalářská práce

Abstract:

Edible flowers in Mexico have significant cultural importance and have been part of traditional diets and local gastronomy for hundreds of years. Even though edible flowers are primarily consumed in rural areas or by indigenous communities, they are now gaining more attention and popularity. In this literature review, approximately 80 species of edible flowers were identified as eaten in Mexico, with the highest representation in the families Fabaceae, Asteraceae, and Cactaceae. Ten of the most common and consumed plants were selected for detailed description. Their nutritional value and potential health benefits are combined with delicious flavour, pleasant aroma and diverse colours and shapes. Available studies indicate that edible flowers contain high levels of protein, fibre, macro- and microelements, phenolic compounds, anthocyanins, flavonoids, carotenoids, vitamin C, and many other beneficial substances. Edible blooms exhibit antioxidant activities, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects and help regulate blood sugar. Together with preservation and use as food additives, edible flowers represent an important functional food ingredient. Culinary use is diverse: processing into dishes, beverages, desserts or spices and allowing their use in the diet with regard to environmental impact. However, short flowering period, limited shelf life and lack of research on heat processing or exact effects on the human body limit broader consumption of edible flowers. The review highlights gaps in current research, particularly the lack of clinical studies, limited data on the effects of processing, and insufficient evaluation of food safety and allergenic potential. Edible flowers have potential in the future as an alternative to meat and animal-based products, as well as a more accessible ingredient for people from diverse backgrounds.

Keywords

content, diet, ethnobotany, consumption, floriphagia, antioxidant

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 16. 4. 2026

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Obhajoba proběhla 28. 5. 2026
• Vedoucí: Ing. Olga Leuner, Ph.D.
• Oponent: Barbora Fišerová, Ing.

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Fakulta tropického zemědělství

Bakalářský studijní program:
Tropické zemědělství