Herb library

Rose Petal

Rosa damascena

Rose petal, gentle and fragrant, is a long-standing household remedy for comfort, skin care, and mild digestive or throat soothing. It is used as a fragrant tea, compress, or syrup in simple home preparations.

Traditionally used for.

• •Traditionally used as a soothing warm tea for mild digestive upset and to calm the spirit during times of stress or sleeplessness.
• •A long-standing household use is as a fragrant rinse or compress for gentle skin care, to refresh tired or irritated skin.
• •Traditionally used as a mild gargle or throat soother for scratchy throats and hoarseness, often combined with honey for comfort.

Simple preparations.

• •Rose petal tea: steep 1 heaping tablespoon dried petals (or a small handful fresh) in 1 cup just-off-boil water for 10 minutes, strain and sip warm, up to 3 cups a day.
• •Rose syrup (for drinks or spoonful comfort): simmer 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 1 cup fresh or 1/2 cup dried rose petals for 10 minutes, cool, strain into a clean jar and refrigerate; take 1 teaspoon as needed, add to tea, or mix into warm water. Honey may be substituted for sugar for adults and children over one year.
• •Rose petal compress or face steam: for a compress, steep 2 tablespoons petals in 1 cup hot water for 15 minutes, strain, cool to comfortable temperature and apply a soft cloth to the skin for 10 to 20 minutes; for a steam, pour the infusion into a bowl, lean over with a towel and inhale gently for 5 to 10 minutes.

Cautions.

• !People with known sensitivity to roses or related plants should avoid topical or internal use, as allergic reactions are possible.
• !Do not give honey-based rose preparations to children under one year of age.
• !Avoid using strong floral waters or concentrated aromatic products around infants, pets such as cats, or people with severe fragrance sensitivities.
• !If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a chronic medical condition, check with your doctor before using rose petal remedies.

Often kept beside.