Rose
Rose
Rose or Rosa centifolia is also known as Shatapatri or Taruni and is available in various parts of India. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties. Rose is used in the traditional system of medicine for managing various diseases. It is good for arthritis, cough, asthma, bronchitis, wounds and ulcers. It is cultivated for its fragrance which is clear and sweet with light notes of honey[1].
What are the synonyms of Rose?
Rosa centifolia, Gulab, Irosa, Gulabipuva, Roja, Golappu, Rojaputvu, Golap, Gulabpushpam, Paninirpushpam, Taruni, Shatpatri, Karnika
What is the source of Rose?
Plant Based
Benefits of Rose
1. Hyperacidity
Hyperacidity means an increased level of acid in the stomach. An aggravated Pitta impairs the digestive fire, leading to improper digestion of food and production of Ama. This Ama gets accumulated in the digestive channels and causes hyperacidity. Regular intake of Rose powder helps to reduce the acid level in the stomach because of its Sita (cold) property. Rose also has Deepan (appetizer) property and removes Ama and controls hyperacidity.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Rose powder.
b. Add Mishri and have it before lunch and dinner with water to get rid of hyperacidity.
2. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is known as Atisar in Ayurveda. It is due to the consumption of contaminated food and water. Apart from this, Agnimandya (weak digestive fire) is also one of the reasons behind diarrhea. All these factors are responsible for aggravating Vata.
This aggravated Vata brings fluid in the intestine from various tissues of the body and mixes with the stool. This leads to loose, watery motions or diarrhea. Use Rose powder in your diet if you are suffering from diarrhea. Rose powder may help your body absorb more nutrients and control your diarrhea due to its Grahi (absorbent) property.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Rose powder.
b. Add Mishri and have it before lunch and dinner with water to get rid of diarrhea.
3. Menorrhagia
Heavy menstrual bleeding is known as Raktapradar or excessive secretion of menstrual blood. This is due to an aggravated Pitta dosha in the body. Rose helps control heavy menstrual bleeding by balancing Pitta dosha. This is due to its Sita (cold) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Gulkand (Rose Petal Jam).
b. Have it with water before lunch and dinner to control heavy menstrual bleeding.
4. Male Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual Dysfunction in men can be in the form of loss of libido i.e. having no inclination towards a sexual act. There can also be a low erection time or semen expelled soon after a sexual activity. This is also referred to as ‘early discharge or premature ejaculation. Intake of Rose products helps in proper functioning of male sexual performance. This is due to its Vajikarna (aphrodisiac) property.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Gulkand (Rose Petal Jam).
b. Have it with water before lunch and dinner to manage male sexual dysfunction.
Hyperacidity means an increased level of acid in the stomach. An aggravated Pitta impairs the digestive fire, leading to improper digestion of food and production of Ama. This Ama gets accumulated in the digestive channels and causes hyperacidity. Regular intake of Rose powder helps to reduce the acid level in the stomach because of its Sita (cold) property. Rose also has Deepan (appetizer) property and removes Ama and controls hyperacidity.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Rose powder.
b. Add Mishri and have it before lunch and dinner with water to get rid of hyperacidity.
2. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is known as Atisar in Ayurveda. It is due to the consumption of contaminated food and water. Apart from this, Agnimandya (weak digestive fire) is also one of the reasons behind diarrhea. All these factors are responsible for aggravating Vata.
This aggravated Vata brings fluid in the intestine from various tissues of the body and mixes with the stool. This leads to loose, watery motions or diarrhea. Use Rose powder in your diet if you are suffering from diarrhea. Rose powder may help your body absorb more nutrients and control your diarrhea due to its Grahi (absorbent) property.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Rose powder.
b. Add Mishri and have it before lunch and dinner with water to get rid of diarrhea.
3. Menorrhagia
Heavy menstrual bleeding is known as Raktapradar or excessive secretion of menstrual blood. This is due to an aggravated Pitta dosha in the body. Rose helps control heavy menstrual bleeding by balancing Pitta dosha. This is due to its Sita (cold) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Gulkand (Rose Petal Jam).
b. Have it with water before lunch and dinner to control heavy menstrual bleeding.
4. Male Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual Dysfunction in men can be in the form of loss of libido i.e. having no inclination towards a sexual act. There can also be a low erection time or semen expelled soon after a sexual activity. This is also referred to as ‘early discharge or premature ejaculation. Intake of Rose products helps in proper functioning of male sexual performance. This is due to its Vajikarna (aphrodisiac) property.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Gulkand (Rose Petal Jam).
b. Have it with water before lunch and dinner to manage male sexual dysfunction.
Precautions when using Rose
Advice from Experts
Ayurvedic View
Rose powder should be avoided if you have constipation because it can worsen your problem due to its Grahi (absorbent) property.
Recommended Dosage of Rose
- Rose Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Rose Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
- Rose Juice - 2-3 teaspoons twice a day.
How to use Rose
1. Rose Powder
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Rose powder.
b. Add to milk or water and have it on an empty stomach.
c. Use it once or twice a day to get rid of acidity.
2. Rose Water
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Rose water.
b. Add to one glass of plain water.
c. Have it before food once or twice a day.
3. Rose Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Rose capsules.
b. Swallow it with water or milk after taking food twice a day.
4. Gulkand
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Gulkand.
b. Swallow it with water or milk 1-2 times a day.
c. Use this remedy to get rid of acidity and fever.
5. Rose Leaves
a. Take 2-4 leaves of Rose.
b. Chew them preferably in the morning to get rid of mouth ulcers.
6. Rose Sharbat
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Rose sharbat.
b. Mix with one glass of water and have it.
c. Take it before lunch and dinner to get rid of the burning sensation in the body.
7. Rose Tea
a. Take 5-6 fresh Rose petals.
b. Clean the Rose petals and discard the white base or else you will find yourself drinking a bitter cup of Rose tea.
c. Rinse the petals again with clean water, pat dry using a towel, and keep aside.
d. Place a saucepan filled with 1 cup of water on moderate to high heat.
e. Allow the water to come to a boil.
f. Add the petals and let them boil for 3 seconds, lower and simmer for 5 minutes or until the petals become dark in colour.
g. Strain the mixture into a cup.
h. Drink this tea for weight loss.
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Rose powder.
b. Add to milk or water and have it on an empty stomach.
c. Use it once or twice a day to get rid of acidity.
2. Rose Water
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Rose water.
b. Add to one glass of plain water.
c. Have it before food once or twice a day.
3. Rose Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Rose capsules.
b. Swallow it with water or milk after taking food twice a day.
4. Gulkand
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Gulkand.
b. Swallow it with water or milk 1-2 times a day.
c. Use this remedy to get rid of acidity and fever.
5. Rose Leaves
a. Take 2-4 leaves of Rose.
b. Chew them preferably in the morning to get rid of mouth ulcers.
6. Rose Sharbat
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Rose sharbat.
b. Mix with one glass of water and have it.
c. Take it before lunch and dinner to get rid of the burning sensation in the body.
7. Rose Tea
a. Take 5-6 fresh Rose petals.
b. Clean the Rose petals and discard the white base or else you will find yourself drinking a bitter cup of Rose tea.
c. Rinse the petals again with clean water, pat dry using a towel, and keep aside.
d. Place a saucepan filled with 1 cup of water on moderate to high heat.
e. Allow the water to come to a boil.
f. Add the petals and let them boil for 3 seconds, lower and simmer for 5 minutes or until the petals become dark in colour.
g. Strain the mixture into a cup.
h. Drink this tea for weight loss.
Benefits of Rose
1. Skin allergy
Rose water helps in decreasing the redness due to inflammation or skin rash when applied to the affected area. This is due to its Sita (cold) and Kashaya properties.
Tips:
a. Put 4-5 drops of Rosewater on a cotton ball.
b. Gently wipe your face with the cotton ball.
c. Use this remedy preferably before going to bed daily for reducing skin inflammation.
2. Acne & Pimples
A Kapha-Pitta dosha skin type can be prone to acne and pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha increases sebum production which clogs the pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. An aggravation of Pitta also causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Rose is useful for removing oil and dirt due to its Kashaya (astringent) nature. It also balances aggravated Pitta due to its Sita (cold) property, thus preventing acne and pimples.
Tips:
a. Put 4-5 drops of Rosewater on a cotton ball.
b. Gently wipe your face with the cotton ball.
c. Use this remedy preferably before going to bed daily to manage acne and pimples.
3. Eye strain
Rose water is useful to get instant relief from strain in the eyes. This is due to its Ropan (healing) and Sita (cooling) properties. Tips:
a. Dip two clean cotton balls in Rose water.
b. Place them on your eyes for 15 minutes.
c. Or, splash water on the eyes in which few drops of Rose water have been added to get rid of tiredness.
4. Stress and Insomnia
The fragrance of Rose is considered as a powerful mood enhancer. It helps to manage stress and to get a good sleep.
Tips:
a. Use Rose essential oil in a diffuser or aromatic Rose candles to create a calm and soothing atmosphere.
Rose water helps in decreasing the redness due to inflammation or skin rash when applied to the affected area. This is due to its Sita (cold) and Kashaya properties.
Tips:
a. Put 4-5 drops of Rosewater on a cotton ball.
b. Gently wipe your face with the cotton ball.
c. Use this remedy preferably before going to bed daily for reducing skin inflammation.
2. Acne & Pimples
A Kapha-Pitta dosha skin type can be prone to acne and pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha increases sebum production which clogs the pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. An aggravation of Pitta also causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Rose is useful for removing oil and dirt due to its Kashaya (astringent) nature. It also balances aggravated Pitta due to its Sita (cold) property, thus preventing acne and pimples.
Tips:
a. Put 4-5 drops of Rosewater on a cotton ball.
b. Gently wipe your face with the cotton ball.
c. Use this remedy preferably before going to bed daily to manage acne and pimples.
3. Eye strain
Rose water is useful to get instant relief from strain in the eyes. This is due to its Ropan (healing) and Sita (cooling) properties. Tips:
a. Dip two clean cotton balls in Rose water.
b. Place them on your eyes for 15 minutes.
c. Or, splash water on the eyes in which few drops of Rose water have been added to get rid of tiredness.
4. Stress and Insomnia
The fragrance of Rose is considered as a powerful mood enhancer. It helps to manage stress and to get a good sleep.
Tips:
a. Use Rose essential oil in a diffuser or aromatic Rose candles to create a calm and soothing atmosphere.
Precautions when using Rose
Allergy
Ayurvedic View
Rose powder or water should not be applied to the body if someone has highly hypersensitive skin.
Recommended Dosage of Rose
- Rose Powder - 1-2 teaspoons or as per your requirement.
- Rose Oil - 2-5 drops twice a day or as per your requirement.
How to use Rose
1. Rose Petal Paste
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Rose petals.
b. Make a paste and apply on the wound.
c. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day for faster wound healing and swelling.
2. Rose Petal Powder
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Rose petal powder.
b. Add Rose water to it and form a paste.
c. Apply it evenly on the lesions of smallpox.
2. Rose Oil
a. Take 3-4 drops of Rose oil.
b. Add coconut oil to it.
c. Massage gently on the affected area.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of headache and anxiety.
3. Rose Water
a. Put 4-5 drops of Rose water on a cotton ball.
b. Gently massage the Rose water cotton ball on the face.
c. Use this remedy preferably before going to bed daily for brighter and younger skin.
4. Rose Water in Multani mitti Facepack
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Multani mitti.
b. Add 1-2 teaspoons of Rose water to it.
c. Make a paste and apply evenly on the face and neck.
d. Leave it for 5-7 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-2 times a week to reduce oiliness of the skin.
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Rose petals.
b. Make a paste and apply on the wound.
c. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day for faster wound healing and swelling.
2. Rose Petal Powder
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Rose petal powder.
b. Add Rose water to it and form a paste.
c. Apply it evenly on the lesions of smallpox.
2. Rose Oil
a. Take 3-4 drops of Rose oil.
b. Add coconut oil to it.
c. Massage gently on the affected area.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of headache and anxiety.
3. Rose Water
a. Put 4-5 drops of Rose water on a cotton ball.
b. Gently massage the Rose water cotton ball on the face.
c. Use this remedy preferably before going to bed daily for brighter and younger skin.
4. Rose Water in Multani mitti Facepack
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Multani mitti.
b. Add 1-2 teaspoons of Rose water to it.
c. Make a paste and apply evenly on the face and neck.
d. Leave it for 5-7 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-2 times a week to reduce oiliness of the skin.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
The best way to obtain the benefits of Rose is to use fresh Rose. However other forms of Rose that are available in the market are:
1. Rose Powder
2. Rose Water
3. Rose leaves Powder
4. Gulkand (Rose petal Jam)
5. Rose oil
These products are available in the market under various brands and prices.
1. Rose Powder
2. Rose Water
3. Rose leaves Powder
4. Gulkand (Rose petal Jam)
5. Rose oil
These products are available in the market under various brands and prices.
Modern Science View
In India, about 150 original varieties and more than 2500 hybrid varieties of Roses are found. One of the varieties with scientific name Rosa centifolia is used in the preparation of herbal medicines.
Modern Science View
Rose hip is the round portion just below the petals of the Rose flower. Rose hip is also known as the accessory fruit of the Rose plant. Rose hip is a rich source of vitamin C and has good medicinal value[10].
Modern Science View
Yes, Rose is useful in managing arthritis and its associated symptoms. Rose has anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity. Certain compounds present in Rose inhibit the activity of many inflammation-causing chemicals. Rose is also considered as a safe alternative in the management of joint pain and rheumatoid arthritis[4][7].
Modern Science View
Yes, Rose may be useful in managing peptic ulcers. This is due to its anti-ulcer activity. Rose protects the inner surface of the stomach and inhibits the activity of inflammation-causing chemicals. As a result of which the pain and swelling in the stomach reduces. Gulkand or Rose petal jam is known to treat ulcers and also reduces intestinal swelling[5][7].
Modern Science View
Yes, Rose may reduce cough by acting on the central nervous system. This is due to its antitussive activity. Rose petal tea is also known to reduce the severity of mild sore throat and bronchial infections[6][7].
Modern Science View
Yes, daily intake of gulkand or Rose petal jam helps to prevent water retention by increasing the urine output[7].
Modern Science View
Yes, Rose works as a good cardiotonic. It can be considered safe in managing congestive heart failure[7].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, you can drink Rosewater to relieve intestinal disorders like bloating, upset tummy and constipation. It helps in quick digestion of food due to its Pachak (digestive) property. However, it is advisable to drink Rosewater only after checking the instructions on the product label.
Modern Science View
Weight loss can be achieved by drinking Rose tea that can be prepared by the following process:
a. Take 5-6 fresh Rose petals.
b. Clean the Rose petals and discard the white base or else you will find yourself drinking a bitter cup of Rose tea.
c. Rinse the petals again with clean water, pat dry using a towel, and keep aside.
d. Place a saucepan filled with 1 cup of water on moderate to high heat.
e. Allow the water to come to a boil.
f. Add the petals and let them boil for 3 seconds, lower and simmer for 5 minutes or until the petals become dark in colour.
g. Strain the mixture into a cup.
a. Take 5-6 fresh Rose petals.
b. Clean the Rose petals and discard the white base or else you will find yourself drinking a bitter cup of Rose tea.
c. Rinse the petals again with clean water, pat dry using a towel, and keep aside.
d. Place a saucepan filled with 1 cup of water on moderate to high heat.
e. Allow the water to come to a boil.
f. Add the petals and let them boil for 3 seconds, lower and simmer for 5 minutes or until the petals become dark in colour.
g. Strain the mixture into a cup.
Modern Science View
Yes, Rose prevents skin aging as it is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins A, B3, C, D and E[7]. It removes free radicals and prevents cell damage. This leads to reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Modern Science View
Yes, Rose produces antidepressant, analgesic and anti-anxiety effects. Topical application or inhalation of Rose oil calms the nerves. This further induces physical and mental relaxation. Rose also reduces the symptoms like restlessness and disturbed sleep. Fresh Rose flowers are known to produce a sedative effect[7-9].
Modern Science View
According to the Indian System of Medicine, various Rose preparations are used as an astringent. Rose water is an effective natural skin toner that can be used by everyone daily. It goes well with all skin types and can be used to hydrate the skin and prevent acne[3].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Rosewater can be used daily as it helps in decreasing the redness from inflammation or skin rash. It also controls acne and pimples due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Sita (cooling) nature.
Modern Science View
Rose is useful in reducing the redness of the skin due to its anti-inflammatory property. Rose water is also known to provide cooling and moisturization to the skin. Due to its cooling effects, Rose water can be used as an adjuvant for many skin preparations. However, it is advisable to do a patch test before using Rose water on your entire face if your skin is sensitive[1][3].
Ayurvedic View
Rose water helps reduce redness and gives a cooling effect. This is due to its Sita (cold) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
Modern Science View
Although not enough evidence is available, Rosewater can be used for eyes. A few drops of Rose water may reduce redness, irritation due to dust and strain. But it is advisable to consult a doctor before using Rose water for eye problems.
Modern Science View
Overnight application of Rose water soothes, cleanses and heals the skin. This is because rose water has antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Also the aromatic properties of Rose water help in managing stress, anxiety, fatigue or any kind of mood disorder[1][11].
Modern Science View
Rose oil possesses antidepressant, antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also has a relaxing and calming effect. Therefore applying Rose essential oil can help manage mood disorders as well as skin problems like acne, sores etc[2][11].
Modern Science View
Yes, Rose water might be good for dry hair due to its moisture-preserving property. Rose water soothes and moisturises the scalp thereby making dry hair more manageable[12].
Modern Science View
Yes, this is because Rose water contains certain constituents that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Application of rose water on skin soothes the irritation caused by conditions like acne, pimples etc[1][3].
References
- Jena J, Tripathi V, Kumar A, et al.Rosa Centifolia: Plant Review.IJRPC.2012;2(3):1-3.
- Mohebitabar S, Shirazi M, Bioos S, et.al.Therapeutic efficacy of Rose oil: A comprehensive review of clinical evidence.Avicenna J Phytomed.2017;7(3):206–213.
- Agarwal SG,Gupta A,Kapahi BK.Chemical Composition of Rose Water Volatiles.JEOR.2005;17(3):265-267.
- Kumar R, Nair V, Singh S, et al.In vivo antiarthritic activity of Rosa centifolia L. flower extract.Ayu.2015;36(3):341–345.
- Chandragopal S, Kumar S, Archana B. Evaluation of Anti-ulcer activity of Rosa Centifolia (Linn.) flowers in experimental rats. Journal of Natural Remedies.2012;12(1):20-29.
- Sankar A, Nikhila C, Lakshmiprasanna VC, et al. Evaluation of anti-tussive activity of Rosa centifolia. IJPSR.2011;2(6):1473-1475.
- Ashokrao TP, Kiran D, Suryawanshi M.N. IJAPR.2017;5(12):46-52.
- Mohebitabar S, Shirazi M, Bioos S, et al. Therapeutic efficacy of rose oil: A comprehensive review of clinical evidence. AJP.2017;7(3):206-213.
- Dubey T, Sahu G, Kumari S, et al. Role of herbal drugs on neurotransmitters for treating various CNS disorders: A review. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge.2018;17(1):113-121.
- WebMD.Rose-hip: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.