The Healthy Temple

The healing tradition associated with the rose is no less remarkable than its fragrance and beauty. The 17th-century English physician Culpeper wrote that red roses strengthen the heart. He may have been referring to a physical action, but anyone who has inhaled fresh roses or their essential oil knows the aroma strengthens the heart spiritually and emotionally as well. In aromatherapy, the psychological effects are wondrous for those with a broken heart, or other emotional wounds. Rose oil calms and supports the heart center, inspiring a sense of happiness and well-being. When rejection or loss has injured one’s ability to love and nurture, either themselves or those around them, rose oil can bring sweet and gentle comfort and allow an emotional “re-opening”.

Traditionally, the delightful floral scent of rose denotes innocence and purity. Ruled by the planet Venus, it is also perhaps the most trusted stimulant of sexual desire. The evocative rose aroma is said to overcome impotence and frigidity, to calm nerves, eliminate feelings of jealousy, disappointment and resentment, all of which are a bonus for lovers.
Rose blooms are so spectacular that we may feel a certain sadness when they fade. No need for melancholy: the passing of the flower gives rise to rose hips. These berry-like fruits are packed with Vitamin C—a higher concentration than any citrus fruit—and antioxidant flavonoids known to defend against cancer and cardiovascular disease. With a tart, cranberry-like flavor, rose hips can be made into jams and jellies, crushed into tea, ground into medicinal powder or reduced to an essential oil. Studies of patients suffering from osteoarthritis show that consuming rose hip powder reduces inflammation and eases stiffness and pain in the joints. As a tea, rose hips have similar benefits as rose petals, including relief for colds and flu, digestive distress and urinary tract infections. As an oil, rose hips promote tissue growth and collagen production, making them especially effective to treat burns and eczema as well as mature, aging skin.