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Perhaps you do not think of the rose as an herb. But the herbalist's
definition of an herb is a useful plant. Therefore, consider the
benefits of the rose . . .
For over 3000 years, the rose has been called the
"Queen of Flowers." Earliest records regarding it's esteem are
in Greek writings. Before that, are legends, such as: the rose
developed it's thorns when Adam and ever were cast from the Garden
of Eden.
Cleopatra certainly believed in the power of the rose's perfume when
she had her floor covered knee deep in rose petals before inviting
Mark Anthony to her palace chamber. We recognize this romance with
every
dozen roses sent by lovers on Valentines Day, for brides, or for to
make amends.
The
connection of the rose with love arises from it's association to
Venus the Goddess of love and beauty. The cosmetic industry uses
rose oil as a component in 46% of men's cologne and 98% of women's
fragrances. It has been found that the true oils of French and
Moroccan roses possess
aphrodisiac effects, but the most common effect of rose oil on the
nervous system is a
feeling of well being and happiness. Rose oil is an antidepressant.
The rose oil used by perfumers is usually synthetic however, because
of the expense in producing rose oil. It takes 60,000 roses to
produce one ounce of pure essential rose oil!
Roses
appear in the kitchen of the gourmet chef. Rose petals garnish
salads, and pastries, appear in syrups and jellies and vinegars, are
folded into omelettes, and are candied. The rosehips, or berry-like
fruit of the rose, are an excellent source of vitamin C, most often
used in teas. To enjoy the culinary aspects of the rose, you
must grow your own- without chemicals. Never, ever eat roses
from the florist! Rose water can be found in the Mediterranean store
and used as a flavoring like vanilla.
The
Queen of Flowers can also be used therapeutically in skin care.
Rose water is both cleansing and astringent. Rose water and glycerin
is very hydrating for your skin. Make your own with 1/2 Tablespoon
glycerin from the drugstore, 1/2 Tablespoon rose water and if
available, 1/4 teaspoon ground rose hips. Mix, let stand 5 minutes,
then apply to face. Leave on 15 minutes and remove with a damp
cloth. Your skin will be soft and supple and you will feel euphoric!
Enjoy
the herbal benefits of the rose. Treat yourself or someone you love
to our Rosebud Wreath with hundreds of fragrant tiny pink
rosebuds, to symbolize love and friendship. To order a rosebud
wreath return to the homepage and hit our products and wreaths. You
will see the rosebud wreath and can order it online today. We also
carry a line of herbal jewelry made of rosebuds featuring pins, head
bands and rosebud necklaces.
Hope to see you at Salt Box
Gallery!
Let me know how you like the website, drop me an
e-mail entitled "Regarding
website."
Happy Herbal Harvesting.
Marian
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