Daffodil

Daffodil (Narcissus spp.) is a perennial flowering plant whicht thrives in temperate climates and typically grows between 6 to 24 inches tall. The plant features narrow, strap-like green leaves and produces a single, showy flower per stem, most often yellow or white, with a trumpet-shaped central corona surrounded by six petals. Daffodils bloom in early spring and are among the first flowers to emerge after winter.

Historically, daffodils have been used in traditional medicine primarily in very controlled and external applications. In ancient Greek and Middle Eastern herbal traditions, extracts from Narcissus species were employed cautiously for treating joint discomfort, skin concerns, and tumors. Due to their potent bioactive compounds, daffodils were also referenced for their emetic and purgative properties, though these uses carried significant risk and were strictly limited. Modern herbalism largely avoids internal use because of the plant’s toxicity.

Daffodils contain a variety of alkaloids, most notably lycorine, along with galantamine, flavonoids, and other phenolic compounds. Galantamine, derived from certain Narcissus species, has been studied for its role in supporting neurological research, particularly in relation to memory-related conditions. However, all parts of the plant, especially the bulb, are poisonous if ingested improperly, and handling the bulbs may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

We only use Daffodils for our Flower Essence

 

 

Daffodil bulbs are planted in the fall, typically from September to November, before the ground freezes. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before winter dormancy. They require a period of cold temperatures (vernalization) to bloom successfully in spring.

Plant bulbs in well-drained soil, 4–6 inches deep, with the pointed end facing upward. Daffodils prefer full sun to partial shade and should be planted before heavy frost sets in. Poor drainage or overly wet soil can cause bulb rot.

Daffodils have a perennial life cycle, returning year after year from underground bulbs.

After planting in the fall, roots develop underground while the bulb remains dormant through winter. In early spring, green shoots emerge, followed by the flowering phase. Once blooming is complete, the plant channels energy back into the bulb through its leaves.

By late spring to early summer, foliage yellows and dies back, marking the plant’s return to dormancy. During this time, the bulb stores nutrients for the next growing season. With minimal care, daffodils can naturalize and multiply over many years.

For ornamental purposes, flowers are harvested in early to mid-spring when blooms are fully open. For traditional or research-related uses, harvesting is typically limited to trained professionals due to toxicity.

Traditionally referenced parts include the bulb and flowers, though these are not recommended for home herbal use due to toxic alkaloids.

Cut flowers can be stored in cool water away from direct sunlight for several days.

Bulbs, if lifted, should be dried and stored in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area until replanting in fall.

 

 

Daffodils are primarily valued today for ornamental, ecological, and research purposes, rather than home herbal preparations.

• Tincture – NO - Due to toxicity, daffodils should not be made into home tinctures.
• Tea – NO
  Internal use is unsafe and not recommended.
• Decoction – NO
• Salve – Historically, very dilute external preparations were used under professional guidance, but this is not recommended for home use.
• Syrup – NO
• Infused Oil – NO

The risk of skin irritation and toxicity outweighs potential benefits.

We only use Daffodils for our Flower Essence