When in bloom, it displays sweetly scented, delicate, bell-shaped white flowers. But don’t let its gentle appearance fool you, it’s poisonous if consumed causing abdominal pain, blurred vision and slowed heart rate. 

In This Healthy Insight:

1. What is Lily of the Valley?
2. Lily of the Valley Meaning
3. What is Lily of the Valley Good For
4. 4 Fun Facts about Lily of the Valley
5. How to Make Your Own Lily of the Valley Perfume
6. What to Look for When Purchasing Lily of the Valley

What is Lily of the Valley?

Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) is a perennial flowering herb native to cooler temperatures in the Northern hemisphere.

It grows wild in woodlands reaching heights of 6-12 inches and spreads extensively via underground stems. Other names include Jacob’s ladder, Our Lady of Tears, Mary’s tears and May bells, the latter most likely because it typically flowers in May. In fact, if you were born in May it’s your birth flower.

Lily of the Valley Meaning

The fragrant flowers are frequently associated with feminine qualities such as rebirth, motherhood, kindness, humility, purity and sweetness. Lily of the valley is thought to bring luck in love and symbolizes happiness, so it is often found in wedding bouquets or its likeness is embroidered onto bridal gowns.  It’s been a favorite of royal brides including Queen Victoria and Grace Kelly.

What is Lily of the Valley Good For

• Religious ceremonies. It’s mentioned more than a dozen times in the Bible. Legend has it that lily of the valley sprang from Eve’s tears when she left the Garden of Eden.
• Celebrations. Give bouquets at birthdays, Mother’s day, or any happy occasion.
• Weddings
• Ornamental gardens
• Perfume
• Protective charm from evil spirits. You may not need it now, but at one time it was used to ward off witches’ spells.

4 Fun Facts about Lily of the Valley

1. It’s not actually a lily. It’s part of the asparagus family.
2. They can’t handle heat and don’t survive hot weather. They love cool climates and often grow best facing north.
3. Lily of the valley has a worldwide following. It’s Finland’s national flower and France observes Lily of the Valley Day on May 1. To celebrate this holiday, which is similar to our Labor Day, the French offer a small bouquet of lily of the valley to their loved ones for good luck and love. 
4. Its leaves have been used to produce green dye.

How to Make Your Own Lily of the Valley Perfume

The aroma of lily of the valley is thought to lift mood and create a sense of happiness.

What you will need:

• Small glass jar

• Lily of the valley oil

• Sweet almond essential oil

Directions:

• Sanitize a small glass jar with warm soapy water, thoroughly rinse and dry.

• Add 4 drops of lily of the valley floral oil in the jar.

• Fill the jar with sweet almond oil to within ½ inch of the top.

• Shake well.

Test. Dip a cotton ball into the perfume and dab on wrist. Wait one minute and check scent. If it’s not strong enough, add 2-3 more drops of lily of the valley until you reach the desired aroma.

What to Look for When Purchasing Lily of the Valley