Rose Tea

Rose tea is an herbal beverage prepared by brewing fresh/dried petals or buds of a rose flower in warm water. It is consumed not just for its delicate flavor but also for its abundant nutrients providing a broad range of health benefits. Some popular rose teas are made by blending petals and buds of different varieties of hybrid tea roses including yellow, pink, or white tea rose with the leaves of Tulsi as well as the Camellia sinensis plant.

History

The use of rose plant as a medicinal herb can be traced back to the medieval period. The rose petals, highly valued for their fragrance, were used by the Greeks and Romans to decorate their banquet halls as also to scent their bathing water. It has been traditionally used to treat cuts and wounds because of its amazing healing powers.

Rose tea benefits: what is it good for

Antioxidant properties

A cup of rose tea has plenty of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that fortifies the immune system and protects from the damaging effects of free radicals. Therefore, it helps prevent cell damage and reduces the risks of premature aging. Moreover, its consumption aids in the prevention and treatment of colds and flu.

Because of the presence of powerful antioxidants, its intake combined with other weight-management techniques helps improve your body’s metabolism. As a result, it stimulates your body to burn excess calories, aiding in reducing body fat. Its regular consumption keeps food cravings under control and aids in weight loss.

Preliminary results of scientific studies have shown that its polyphenol content reduces pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis. It also plays a preventive role against cardiovascular diseases and may prove to be beneficial in slowing down the growth of cancer cells.

Eases menstrual cramps

A recent study conducted in Taiwan has revealed that consumption of rose tea on a daily basis helps alleviate intense pain in women suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding.

Anti-depressant properties

The sweet, refreshing aroma of rose tea has a calming effect on the nervous system providing relief from anxiety and stress. Its intake aids in preventing and treating symptoms of depressive disorders such as persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, loss of interest, irritability, and insomnia.

For digestive disorders

The antibacterial properties in rose tea provide relief from some digestive problems such as heartburn and IBS as well as their symptoms including gas, bloating, stomach pain, cramps, and diarrhea. It regulates bowel movements and promotes proper functioning of the digestive tract.

Helps in detoxification

Drinking this herbal infusion facilitates the flow of waste products from, and nutrients to, the liver. It regulates concentration of bile in the gallbladder and reduces the chances of formation of gallstones. Moreover, it aids in removal of wastes from the kidneys as well as the urinary bladder, decreasing the risks of developing infections in the urinary tract. Therefore, it assists in complete detoxification of the kidneys, liver, and gallbladder.

Other uses

• It can be applied as a face wash. Since it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, its topical application helps reduce redness, itchiness, and swollen spots on the skin. Therefore, it is beneficial for those with acne, eczema, and rosacea.
• A decoction prepared from rose petals mixed with rosewater can be added to the bath water, which facilitates in toning your skin. Rose petals have astringent properties, helping in tightening pores, restoring suppleness, and keeping your skin smooth.

How to make rose tea

• Take 1-2 cups of fresh/dried pesticide-free rose petals
• The white basal part of the petals taste bitter and therefore, should be removed
• Gently rinse the petals and after drying put them in a teapot
• Pour 3 cups water over the petals
• Heat the mixture for 4-5 minutes, or until it reaches a temperature of 194-203°F
• Remove from heat
• Strain the mixture into teacups
• Sweeteners like sugar or honey can be added to taste

You can also add some ice cubes to a glass of rose tea to make an invigorating chilled beverage.

Preparation of rose milk tea

Ingredients

• Some fresh/dried rose petals or rose buds
• 1-1 ½ cup of hot water
• ½ cup of milk
• Some sweeteners

Procedure

• Put the rose petals or buds into a teapot
• Pour hot water into the container and steep for about 5 minutes
• Meanwhile, heat the milk in a pot until it becomes foamy
• Strain the mixture into a tea mug
• Add the milk into the tea mug
• Stir in the sweeteners

Safety and precautions

Side effects

Rose tea is considered safe if taken in moderate amounts on a short-term basis. However, its excessive consumption may cause fatigue, headache, nausea, and vomiting.

During pregnancy

As of now, no scientific research has supported its use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Therefore, its intake is not recommended during these times.

Where to buy

Flavored and loose rose leaf teas, organic rose bud teas, as well as rose tea bags are available online and in local herbal tea shops. Some popular variations called Siberian rose tea and rose petal black tea are also sold in some online tea stores. You can also order online a caffeine-free herbal tea blend that is flavored with petals of English rose.