The rose, a flower with a millennial history
The rose belongs to the Rosaceae family and is considered to be one of the oldest species on the planet, with rose fossils dating back more than 35 million years. It is native to Asia and parts of Europe and North America. Due to its attractive appearance and many health benefits, today it is cultivated throughout the world for ornamental, cosmetic, nutritional, and therapeutic purposes.
In the East, they have been preparing this infusion for thousands of years. The dry buds of the Rosa rugosa variety are a natural source of vitamin C, as well as having a purifying, relaxing, and slightly laxative effect.
Within traditional Chinese medicine, this rose variety (known in China as Mei Gui Hua) is considered to be the most powerful of all the aromatic plants due to its immediate but subtle effect. It is grown mainly in the regions of Jiangsu, Sichuan, Shandong, Fujian and Zhejiang.
A rose plant can reach up to 2 metres in height, with its large branches densely covered by leaves, and its flowers growing individually or in small clusters at the end of each branch. Rose petals range in colour from pink and red to yellow and white, and they start to flower between May and June. To guarantee the best properties and perfect conservation, roses are harvested in late spring, just before they bloom. The branches are cut and the buds are then separated and dried at low temperatures, so that all the active ingredients are well preserved.
In addition to a high vitamin C content, the buds of the Rosa rugosa also contain essential oils, fatty acids, tannins and other antioxidants that give it a characteristic aroma and flavour. Precise drying methods must be used in order to preserve these elements.
Rose Infusion as a “Lady’s tea”
As well as being an enduring symbol of love throughout the world, the rose is often associated with women. Its gentle and undisputed elegance, sweet aroma and delicate beauty can fully justify this classical comparison. Nevertheless, a rose is also considered the lady’s flower due to its medicinal properties.
– In ancient times, menstrual pains were treated with rose infusions, since their essential oils relax and soothe cramps
– This flower aids the health and beauty of the skin. Its antioxidants purify the body, help to regulate the imbalances that cause acne, and improve the appearance of the skin in general.
– The diuretic effect of the infusion is favourable in cases of fluid retention, since it facilitates the elimination of excess fluid and reduces the feeling of swelling and bloating that many women suffer, particularly in the summer.
– Due to its low calorie count and purifying action, a rose tea is perfect for those who want to lose weight. In addition, its relaxing effect helps to overcome the feelings of stress and anxiety that often occur when starting a diet.
Although it has been defined as the infusion for women, rose infusions are also suitable for men. Enjoying a drink that is both delicious and rich in healthy properties is always a pleasure for the body and senses, and can improve your general mood in times of heavy stress.
How to prepare a rose infusion
During the summer, the recently harvested and dried rosebuds are the principle ingredient of delicious infusions. This thousand-year-old Eastern tradition isn’t so common in our country, even though the rose’s health and beauty benefits are well-known.
Preparing a rose infusion is easy and it can be consumed cold or hot, depending on your preferences. Use 2-3g of Rosa rugosa buds per cup, and add 200ml of freshly boiled water. Cover and leave the infusion for 5 minutes, before straining it and then savouring the delicious taste. If you prefer, you can sweeten it with honey, though we advise tasting the pure infusion first to enjoy all of its nuances.
The rose infusion is customarily drunk after a meal or at the end of the day. This means that it aids digestion, reinforces the immune system and relaxes the body, all while providing a unique and intense aroma that helps us to enjoy the moment to the fullest.
