Healing powers of nature – Wellness from the Alps

Edelweiss has played an important role in natural medicine for generations. The alpine edelweiss, which grows up to 20 centimetres high with its typical felt-like leaves, grows at altitudes between 1,800 and 3,000 metres and has been a protected species since the end of the 19th century. It has therefore been bred, for example in market gardens or in nature projects such as in southern Switzerland, where the Helvetie variety has been cultivated on sunny mountain slopes.

The flavonoids contained in edelweiss strengthen the vessels, are anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic.

Due to the high content of anti-oxidants, which protect against diseases and keep the skin elastic, extracts from the leaves of the Alpine edelweiss are also used in cosmetics. As moisturiser, for anti-aging products or UV protection. In Switzerland, the Alpine symbol is also offered for drinking – as an additive in tea, liqueur or beer. Edelweiss – a plant with many talents.

Relaxation and healthy sleep
It is a tree for well-being. Its wood is traditionally said to have special healing powers in the folk medicine of the Alps, which has also been scientifically substantiated in a study by the Joanneum Research Institute in Graz. The Swiss stone pine is very resistant, grows in the Alpine region at altitudes between 1,300 and 2,800 metres and even survives sub-zero temperatures of up to 43 degrees!

Thanks to the essential oil pinosylvin contained in it, the wood of the coniferous tree has special properties that make it particularly popular for furnishing bedrooms. Beds, wardrobes, panelling made of Swiss stone pine or pillow fillings made of Swiss stone pine shavings are said to promote a healthy and deep sleep. The aromatic soft pine scent of the wood has a calming effect and creates a feel-good atmosphere.

Power pack for stressed nerves
The Graz study of 2002 supports this calming effect. In the research, test subjects who slept in a bed made of Swiss stone pine had a lower heart rate – up to 3,500 fewer heartbeats were measured per night. Propolis and limosan are the names of the two essential oils that are said to be responsible for more relaxation and rest.

In addition, the study claims that the recovery phase during sleep is prolonged by the Swiss stone pine. This is supposed to reduce stress, strengthen resistance and have a positive effect on our nervous system. If you want to try it out, you will find a healthy offer from the Swiss stone pine room to spa treatments and care products, for example, at the Romantik Seehotel Jägerwirt with the ‘Zirbenkraft Paket’.

The healthy Swiss stone pine is also available for on the go: an oil is extracted from the chips that is said to help with pain, colds and bronchial complaints. And even if there are no such symptoms – the aromatic oil definitely smells like nature and health.

Care products made from Swiss stone pine oil and spa treatments are offered at the Romantik Seehotel Jägerwirt. ©Romantikhotels

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