Rose (Rosa rugosa)

I love to harvest rose petals in June.

When they are tinctured in glycerin, they help heal the heart of distress.

Recent findings in the new field of neuro-cardiology indicate that the heart has a complex neural network.

The heart is an "organ of perception ... , a unique brain hooked into the central nervous system." (Stephen Harrod Buhner in "The Secret Teachings of Plants".) This recent scientific understanding parallels the way the heart/mind is viewed in Chinese medicine.

Both ancient and modern systems propose that the heart is a center of consciousness, emotion and memory.

Roses help expand heart consciousness, activating the parasympathetic system and opening us to the loving energies within the heart.

They are specific for loss and trauma, for heartbreak and deep sorrow.

Roses help heal the heart and the uterus, both muscles that are sensitive to hormonal shifts.

They are anti-depressant, sedative, a digestive stimulant and aphrodisiac.

Roses help relieve insomnia, dispel mental and physical fatigue and ease heart palpitations.

They are an ally when there is irritability associated with PMS.

They are perfect for fiery people because they are cooling.

I like to include rose glycerite in a variety of shen tonics. (In Chinese medicine, the shen is the the higher consciousness of the heart).

Shen tonics help address the emotional and spiritual disturbances of the heart. A combination of hawthorn, reishi, he shou wu and rose, for example, helps relieve sadness and a sense of affliction in the heart.

As a flower essence, red rose helps us to open up to love and to bring our desires into action.

Blessings,

Madelon Hope