Orchid the Flower of Perfection
Orchid
The orchid has been a part of Chinese culture for many centuries; as well as being a part of its history, art, literature, it is also used in Chinese medicine. The Chinese believed that the orchid stood for friendship, refinement, beauty and nobility. It is known to have an incredible 1.8 million living species, this is very impressive, to say the least. The orchid comes in so many different shapes, colours and sizes I'm sure there is an orchid for each and every one of our tastes.
Confucius Says
The following was written by the great Philosopher 'Confucius' in which he compares the orchid to a man of principles. "An orchid in a deep forest sends out its fragrance even if no one is around to appreciate it. Likewise, men of noble character hold firm to their high principles, undeterred by poverty." - Confucius (551-479BC)
Orchid Shows Around the World
Orchids are also a very big international industry, especially in Asian countries. Taiwan is a leader in the breeding and distribution of orchids. There is an annual 'Taiwan International Orchid Show' it is a wonderful show of colours to amaze you as you stare at all the natural beauty on display. If however you are looking for an orchid show a little closer to home in say Southern Ontario then you are in luck check out online for an orchid show near you--Cambridge, Ontario, Hespeler Arena might be a good place to start!
Used in Chinese Medicine
Not only is this wonderful species of flower a delight to the eye; but it is used as a main ingredient in Chinese medicine to cure or aid different ailments. The 'Dendrobium Nobile' is a medicinal orchid used to cure ailments such as kidney disease or indigestion. The medicinal orchid 'Bletilla striata' is ingested to aid in stopping bleeding. The tubers or rhizomes of the 'Gastrodia elata' aid in treating conditions such as dizziness, hypertension and convulsions.
Summary:
In the case of the orchid, it is not only wonderful to gaze at to enjoy its beauty but it also has many other functions! I must say my favourite function of the orchid is the pleasure it gives me in a visual sense; enjoying the physical beauty of the flower is a wonderful natural high! I look forward to attending an orchid show or two!
