Roses have been one of the most loved flowers throughout history. From celebrating birthdays, major life achievements, Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or to soothe a broken heart - roses will be there for you! The earliest evidence of roses dates to the ancient 18th century Egypt. Roses also have a very special place in Greek mythology. It is believed that Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, grew them from her tears as she grieved the loss of her lover Adonis. We will probably find very popularised myths around roses in every culture across countries, so in addition to their historical and mythical importance, here are 5 reasons why you should embrace the power of these beautiful gifts of nature into your life:
Rose Tea
Rose Tea is plain fresh rose leaves and buds steeped in lukewarm water. Because it is obviously caffeine free, it is the perfect replacement for people who are averse to tea and coffee anxiety jitters. It helps you beat your morning fatigue without leaving you acidic or dehydrated. And if you are not a big fan of breakfasts, you could easily drink it on empty stomach, without fearing any side effects. Roses are rich in antioxidants, and therefore a cup of morning rose tea could help you prevent wrinkles due to stress and aging. Being anti-inflammatory, rose tea is also very effective in combating menstrual cramps – this is one valid reason to give it a shot!
Rose Petals
Roses are rich in Vitamin C. For your skincare routine, if you are someone who loves delicious smell as well as soft supple skin (smell like a rose if you may!), pluck some rose petals, squish them, and add two to three drops of honey to it. Wash your face with honey or any organic face wash and then on your still moist face, apply the rose petal squish mixture. Let it sit for 5 minutes and wash it with cold water. Your skin will feel fresh and alive, and you will see a gradual decrease in dark spots, pimple scars, and hyperpigmentation. Honey being antibacterial and rose packed with Vitamin C, will ensure you do not have to suffer from monthly breakouts.
Rose Water
Rose water is the perfect toner/makeup remover for you. If you are absolutely against those heavy and sticky makeup removal creams and lotions, rose water is your solution. All you must do is wash you face with lukewarm water and do not worry if your makeup runs down your face. Take a cotton ball and dip it in some rose water. Gently clean your skin. You will be good to go. A word of caution though – many OTC rose water products might cause irritation to people with sensitive skin, therefore it is always better to make one at home. All you have to do is soak some rose petals overnight in cold water.
Aromatherapy
Rose essential oils, rose bath bombs, rose perfumes, rose candles – there is so much to choose from. But whatever you decide to go with, you will eventually end up with a super relaxed mood. This delicious smell increases your happy hormones – dopamine and serotonin – which in turn lifts your spirits. You can always rub a rose essential oil or fragrance on your wrist before you head out. You will feel good, and you will have something to help you destress in the middle of hustle. This sweet subtle smell is also known to calm anxiety. Make sure you apply it over a thin base of petroleum jelly to make the fragrance last longer.
Home Décor
No one can ever go wrong with a rose themed home décor! Imagine how wonderful it would be to wake up – still all groggy in the morning – somehow dragging your feet to your kitchen for a glass of water, and there in the middle, on the drawing room table, you see a beautiful rose flower vase – the smell, the gratitude of being amongst things that are beautiful, and above all, love for your home and appreciation for your life. Roses are a good reminder to be grateful for all that you have. A grateful heart is always a good way to start your day.