Roses are cherished as a symbol of love, romance and passion. But beyond their charming beauty and symbolism, rose petals are valued for their immense wellness benefits. This timeless blossom holds fascinating health-benefiting properties, which have been harnessed for ages. Fresh rose petals are usually added to light, mellow teas that render a floral flavour, whereas dried ones are usually melded to fruit blends to complement sweetness and tartness.
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They are a delicious and healthy addition to a variety of herbal and caffeinated drinks. For ages edible rose petals have been used in making traditional foods and delights such as gulkand, punkhuri and rose petal tea. Rose petals have also found a prominent place in traditional medicine like Ayurveda to pacify vata, pitta dosha, treat acidity, constipation, abdominal discomfort, and several other maladies.
Edible roses are known by several vernacular names, commonly known as the Damask rose. Gulab in Hindi, Shatapatri in Sanskrit, Gulabihuvu in Kannada, Gulabipuvvu in Telugu, Roja, Paneer rose in Tamil and Panineer Pusham in Malayalam
Let’s explore this article to know what makes these delicate blooms more than just pretty petals.
Nutritional Value of Rose Petals
Rose petals contain fair amounts of vitamin C, and antioxidants such as polyphenols and flavonoids that confer umpteen health benefits. Rose petals contain a wealth of phytochemicals, which exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancerous, anti-aging, anti-microbial, hepatoprotective, and neurogenic properties. They are light, natural and rejuvenating, which makes them an ideal ingredient to be added to any meal and uplifts overall health.
Health Benefits of Rose Petals
Improves Skin Glow
Several studies reveal that rose petals contain vast reserves of antioxidant compounds like terpenes, flavonoids and anthocyanins, which are beneficial for enhancing skin health. Powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory qualities of rose petals safeguard the skin cells against free radicals and delay the signs of ageing.
Also Read: 3 Amazing Ways The Goodness Of Rose Makes Your Skin Glow
Rich in vitamin C, rose petals support collagen production when consumed regularly; they can soothe irritated skin and rejuvenate dull and lifeless skin. Rose petals are often used in DIY face masks or toners.
Boosts Mood/ Relieves Stress
The intriguing aroma of rose petals has been shown to have calming effects, potentially reducing anxiety and promoting mental health. Brew a refreshing tea with rose petals to uplift your mood and soothe a stressed mind. Additionally, rose petals are used as a key ingredient in perfume or essential oils in aromatherapy.
Also Read: Rose: 5 Absolute Benefits Of Adding This Enticing Flower To Your Diet
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Rose petals are used in traditional medicine for treating inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and rosacea. The powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities help soothe irritated and sensitive skin.
Natural Detoxifier
Dried rose petals optimise liver health by detoxifying the system of harmful toxins. Drinking a hot infusion of rose petal tea acts as a natural diuretic, preventing excessive water accumulation in the body.
Furthermore, dried rose petals tea can be highly effective in shedding those extra kilos, as it boosts metabolism and detoxifies the entire system.
Ease Menstrual Cramps
Drinking herbal teas made with rose petals is believed to alleviate period pains and relax muscles owing to their powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving traits.
How to Use Rose Petals?
The uses of rose petals go far beyond floral arrangements. Here are some of the amazing uses of rose petals:
Dried rose petals herbal teas are calming and flavourful.
Rose petals are widely used in beauty care products such as rose water, face masks, toners and both soaks.
Dried rose petals are used in diffusers and sachets in aromatherapy.
Rose petals are used in various culinary delights right from jams to desserts to refreshing drinks.
Always choose pesticide-free, food-grade rose petals if you're planning to eat or brew them.
Ways to Add Rose Petals to Your Diet
It is an easy and simple way to incorporate rose petals into your daily diet regimen. Here are some interesting ways to:
Steep dried petals in hot water for a soothing, aromatic tea.
Gulkand or rose petal jam is a sweet preserve made from rose petals, often used as a palate cleanser or served with paan.
Toss a few fresh petals into green salads for colour and a gentle floral zest.
Add a hint of dried rose or rose water to fruit smoothies.
Sprinkle dried petals on cakes, cupcakes, or even yogurt bowls.
Mix rose syrup or crushed petals into chilled milk for a summer refresher.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Though rose petals are generally safe and well tolerated by most healthy people, there are a few side effects that should be noted.
Rarely, but some people may experience allergies, especially those who are sensitive to pollen or flowers in general.
Always ensure to buy rose petals that are organic and food-grade to avoid harsh chemical exposure.
Though rose tea is usually safe, it’s always best to consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Any natural and herbal ingredient should be used in moderation. Excessive consumption can cause stomach discomfort.
Conclusion
Rose petals are nature’s marvellous gift, boasting a range of wellness benefits, from skincare to stress relief and even metabolic health. Whether you relish them in refreshing tea, add them to your desserts, or relax in a rose-scented bath, these fragrant blossoms offer beauty both inside and out.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics, including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
Skin anti‐inflammatory activity of rose petal extract (Rosa gallica) through reduction of MAPK signaling pathway
Myung‐hee Lee 1, Tae Gyu Nam 1, Inil Lee 2, Eun Ju Shin 1, Ah‐ram Han 1, Pomjoo Lee 3, Sung‐Young Lee 4, Tae‐Gyu Lim
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6261181/
Edible rose flowers: A doorway to gastronomic and nutraceutical research
Author links open overlay panel
Athrinandan S. Hegde,Smriti Gupta ,Shivani Sharma ,Vidyashankar Srivatsan,
Poonam Kumari
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0963996922010353
