Rose • Rosa damascena, R. canina, R. rubiginosa

Parts Used: buds, petals and fruits (hips)

Affinity: heart, mucous membranes

Herbal Action: anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, astringent

Indications:

• Reduces inflammation in mucous membranes, including in the digestive tract, lungs, sinuses, eyes, vagina and skin

• Topically soothing to itchy, weeping sores from acne, eczema, psoriasis, and poison ivy, and soothes rosacea

• Calms the emotional heart and eases anxiety, especially stemming from grief

• Traditionally used to reduce heavy bleeding postpartum and during menopause, and for irregular menstrual bleeding due to endometriosis or fibroids

Preferred Preparations: glycerite, infusion, yoni steam

Taste: sweet and floral

Contraindications: can be too drying for some

Rose Hips

Organ Affinity: cardiovascular system, mucous membranes

Herbal Action: antioxidant, demulcent, nutritive

Indications:

• High in vitamin C and flavonoids which tone the cardiovascular system and vessels, improve immunity, mitigate the effects of stress, reduce inflammation, and tone the connective tissue and skin

• Traditionally used longterm to treat rosacea, allergies, varicose veins and high blood pressure

• The decoction soothes inflamed mucous membranes in the digestive tract

• Generally cooling to the body

Preferred Preparations: decoction, honey, jam

Taste: sour

Contraindications: generally regarded as safe