Ayurveda is a 5,000-year-old science of natural and holistic healing that has its origins in the Vedic culture of India. Ayurveda thrives on prevention, but when illness does arrive, using herbs, plants, shrubs, oils, and food is the best way to bring health and healing when we feel out of balance. As an herbalist, the rose is one of my most cherished plant-medicine flowers, and why I gave my daughter the middle name.

History

Roses are ancient symbols of love and beauty. Their beauty and aroma cultivate a connection between our heart and mind allowing us to have more compassion, love, and deep feelings towards ourselves and one another. The rose was sacred to many goddesses, including Isis and Aphrodite, and is often used as the symbol of the Virgin Mary. Their aroma and use have a sweet, gentle, nourishing effect on our heart chakra. I use rose in many of my homemade beauty products and it can be used to cook with as well.

Rose Water

During the summer, rose water should be used daily to prevent inflammation and irritability. Rosewater can be purchased in our apothecary or at natural grocers, sprouts (in the beauty + body section), any health food store as well as amazon. My favorite brand is heritage store rosewater.

Each morning, add rose water to an eyecup, place the eyecup over your eye and open and close your eyes several times. Repeat on the opposite side. This reduces inflammation, red, itchy, irritated eyes, and allergies.

For radiant, glowing skin, I carry a small spritzer bottle of rose water in my bag and during the hot summer day, I spray my face and chest to keep cool and calm. This can be used in your car while driving, at the park, or anytime you just need a refreshing, cleansing, toner. It will reduce redness, puffiness, and skin inflammation. You will glow like the goddess you are! I also like to spray this in the air when my kids seem to be agitated or not getting along.

Rose Petals

The petals are also available at mountain rose herbs or starwest botanicals. It’s important to buy petals that are organic that haven’t been treated with pesticides and herbicides. You can also, very simply, dry your own petals. Simply, ask your plant if it’s ok to remove the flower, and if so, lay each petal flat near a sunny window on a dry cloth for 1-2 days. Once they’re dry you can use them to cook with. Try some of our favorite recipes with rose water and rose petals!

 Our favorite rose recipes

1. Spiced Rose Petal Granola

2. Cardamom Rose Oatmeal Cookies

3. Overnight Chia Cereal with Spiced Rose Petal Granola

4. Rose Tea (COMING SOON)

5. Rose Plum Compote (COMING SOON)

6. Rose Butter (ghee) Bites (COMING SOON)

We hope you enjoy the aroma and uses of rose.