The Secrets of the Snowdrop

Did you know that spring’s herald – the snowdrop, is an excellent remedy to treat diseases, some even serious?! A flower as small as it, is as controversial .Because, though it seems slender and thin, colored in pure white, the snowdrop is not commonly seen in many countries as it is in Romania. For example, while in Romania it is a symbol of hope and redemption from sin (as it appears under the thick layer of snow after heavy winter), in the U.K. it is believed that if you bring home a snowdrop, you may attract misfortune. Studied by specialists, it was discovered that snowdrops can be helpful in treating diseases.

An infusion of dry snowdrops (leaves, stems and flowers) is an excellent remedy to combat cramps and relaxes the muscles. In ancient times, at the countryside, people put snowdrops in pools to relieve rheumatic pains. Externally, snowdrop flower infusions are great to treat the pain of varicose veins.

Galantamine is extracted from snowdrops. Among other substances, galantamine is present in the composition of drugs used in treating Alzheimer's disease, and other forms of dementia.

Snowdrop decoction is used as a remedy for certain vaginal diseases. If you want to get rid of vaginal candidiasis, prepare a decoction of snowdrops (simmer for 15 minutes 30 grams of dried flowers and leaves in 1.5 liters of water) and use it for local washes.

Compresses with snowdrop infusion (flowers and leaves) do wonders for the skin, especially when the signs of aging (stains) appear. Applied at night on a clean face (single, or combined with lemon juice or infusion of parsley), the snowdrop infusion soothes, reduces blemishes and freckles.

Do not use the bulb!

If you want to enjoy the therapeutic effects of snowdrop, use it only dry, otherwise the plant can be toxic! For the same reason, the bulb is never used.

Mărţişor is the traditional celebration of the beginning of the spring in Romania and Moldova, on 1 March. The day's name is the diminutive of March (in Romanian Martie), and thus means something like "little or dear March". Men offer women a small decorative object also called Mărţişor consisting of a jewel or symbolizing a flower, an animal, etc. tied to a red and white string. This is a symbol of the coming spring, which the woman wears pinned to her blouse on this day, and up to two weeks after. Occasionally, women also give such gifts to men.