Rose Petals
Latin Name: Rosa spp. (commonly Rosa damascena, Rosa centifolia, Rosa rugosa)
Herb Class/Action:
Rose is classified as a nervine, astringent, anti-inflammatory, heart tonic, and antidepressant.
Parts of Plant Used:
The petals are most commonly used medicinally, either fresh or dried. Rose hips and leaves are also used in herbal medicine, but this monograph focuses on the petals.
Flavors:
Rose petals have a delicate, floral, and slightly sweet flavor with gentle astringency. Flavor varies by species and growing conditions.
Energetics:
Rose is energetically cooling and slightly drying.
Medicinal Properties:
Emotional and Nervous System Support: Rose is a classic heart and emotional tonic, used to soothe grief, heartache, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. It gently uplifts the spirit and calms the nervous system, making it useful in times of transition or emotional fragility.
Astringent and Anti-inflammatory: Rose’s astringent and cooling nature helps tone and soothe irritated tissues, including in the throat, mouth, eyes, and skin. It’s useful for diarrhea, mouth ulcers, and puffy, inflamed skin.
Skin and Beauty Support: Rose petals are rich in antioxidants and used externally in toners, steams, masks, and infused oils for calming irritated skin, reducing redness, and restoring luster and elasticity.
Digestive and Heart Tonic: Rose petals support digestion—particularly when symptoms are linked to emotional stress—and may also gently lower inflammation in the cardiovascular system.
Reproductive Health: Rose is gently supportive of reproductive and hormonal health, especially when stress or trauma has impacted the heart-womb connection. It’s often included in womb healing, sensual, or menstrual blends.
In the Garden:
Roses are perennial shrubs or climbers with wide adaptability, though they prefer full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. For medicinal use, grow organically and choose fragrant, heirloom varieties such as Rosa damascena or Rosa rugosa. Harvest petals in the morning after dew has dried, just as flowers begin to open. Regular harvesting encourages more blooms throughout the season.
Culinary Uses:
Rose petals are used in teas, syrups, jellies, vinegars, honeys, confections, and baked goods. They’re a key ingredient in rose water and traditional recipes such as Turkish delight or Middle Eastern desserts. Petals can also be candied or added fresh to salads and desserts.
Precautions:
Rose is very safe and well-tolerated by most individuals. Always use organically grown roses for internal use to avoid pesticide residue. In rare cases, very sensitive individuals may experience mild allergic reactions. Store dried petals in airtight containers away from light and moisture to preserve their color and aroma.
