Rose Recipes for Radiance

Has anyone else noticed that rose is popping up everywhere — especially in trendy beverages, treats, and skin care? Personally, I love it and am welcoming this rose renaissance with open arms. If you’re starting to feel curious about how to incorporate more rose into your own recipes and rituals, I’ve got you covered. If you’re wondering about why people are so into using rose in the first place check out the potential benefits of rose and then return here to take action.

In addition to making a comeback through popular skin care and local herbalism movements, natural rose has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. In fact, it is one of the oldest beauty secrets known to humankind. The reason why rose is so often used in skin care is because it has a vast array of skin supporting properties. Beyond its sweet and sensual scent, rose delivers something much deeper through the tissue of the skin.

The ancient wisdom of Ayurveda classifies rose as sweet, bitter, pungent and astringent with a cooling effect. According to The Yoga of Herbs, rose works primarily with the plasma, blood, marrow, nerve and reproductive tissue. In Ayurveda, rose is commonly found in remedies for menstrual health and those related to relieving the excess heat of pitta dosha. Bitter herbs with an affinity for the blood tend to be especially supportive for the skin. Within the Ayurvedic paradigm, lots of skin challenges are related to the body trying to expel excess heat. Why not soothe that fire from the inside out by using rose?

One of the simplest ways to start incorporating rose into your wellness routine, is by drinking rose tea. And guess what? You can easily make it yourself using dried rose petals. If you’re interested in blending other herbs to your rose tea, hibiscus pairs well for extra skin soothing support. Adding warming herbs like cinnamon will help balance the refrigerant nature of rose, while bringing a digestive quality to your tea. Personally, I love incorporating a couple cardamom pods to my rose tea for an extra soothing heart-opening effect. Below are a few of my favorite rose tea concoctions, plus a rejuvenative almond rose drink and a couple body care remedies!

Cinnamon Honey Rose Tea

The cooling and soothing qualities of rose combine with the warming and activating qualities of cinnamon make for a beautifully balanced beverage. This tea may support circulation, glowing skin and maintaining a healthy weight.

1 tsp dried rose petals

¼ tsp cinnamon powder

½ tsp honey

12-16 oz water

1. Steep rose petals in hot water for at least 10 minutes.
2. Strain.
3. Stir in ¼ tsp cinnamon and honey.
4. Enjoy!

Notes

• If you have cinnamon chips on hand you can steep ½ tsp with your rose, and omit the cinnamon powder.
• Never add honey directly to boiling water, always wait for it to cool down slightly. Honey may become toxic to the body when exposed to high temperatures.

Cardamom Rose Tea

Cardamom and rose is a classic pairing because these flavors go so well together. You may notice a sweet, soothing, and heart-opening effect.

1 tsp dried rose petals

2 cardamom pods

12-16 oz water

1. Break the cardamom pods open to expose the seeds.
2. Combine rose petals, cardamom pods and seeds.
3. Cover in 12-16 ounces of boiling water.
4. Steep for at least 10 minutes.
5. Strain and enjoy!

Notes

• Aside from opening the cardamom pods with your fingers, you can easily smash them in a mortar and pestle, or just tap them with something heavy (like a jar) until they break open.

Hibiscus Rose Sun Tea

With its deeply cooling and skin-supporting nature, this is one of the best for summer beverages. It will bring ease to the inner fire and may even relieve feelings of impatience or irritability.

4 Tbsp dried rose petals

2 Tbsp dried hibiscus flowers

1 Tbsp coconut sugar (optional)

32 oz (4 cups) filtered water

1. In a large glass jar, combine rose petals, hibiscus flowers and purified water.
2. Stir and/or shake.
3. Cover with a lid or cloth.
4. Place in direct sunlight for 2-4 hours (or more!)
5. Strain and enjoy.

Notes

• For an additional cooling effect, garnish with fresh mint.
• If you’re not familiar with hibiscus, it is quite astringent. The coconut sugar brings a sweet balance to this sometimes intense flavor.

Rose Shatavari Tonic

Shatavari is often featured in formulations for women’s health, as it may help maintain a healthy female reproductive system. It is especially supportive to those struggling with weakness, depletion, and excess heat in the digestive system.

1 tsp dried rose petals

¼ tsp shatavari powder

10 oz water

1. In a small pot, combine rose petals, shatavari and water.
2. Bring to a boil and simmer on medium/low for 5 minutes, partially covered.
3. Strain and enjoy!

Notes

• Shatavari is not for those with low appetite, yeast infections, cystic acne, or congestion. If you are experiencing these things, favor more warming herbal aids, like ginger.
• For extra rejuvenation, add ½ tsp ghee and or honey after staining.

Almond Rose Rejuvenation Drink

There is almost nothing better on a hot summer afternoon! This almond rose rejuvenation drink aims to replenish the deep tissues of the body for a greater sense of renewal from within. This recipe serves two, so share it with a friend or save the extra in your fridge for tomorrow.

2 C almond milk

2 Tbsp dried rose petals

1 ripe mango, cubed

¼ tsp ground cardamom

a pinch of ground salt

1 tsp honey

a blender

1. Combine all of your ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Enjoy at room temperature with lunch or in the afternoon.

Serves two!

Notes

• You can substitute 1-2 dates for the honey.
• Adding a pinch of ground fennel can enhance the flavor and cooling properties of this beverage.
• Because this drink is relatively heavy, don’t consume too much in one sitting. Drink only what you are hungry/thirsty for in the moment and save the rest for later.

Rose Toner

If you’re not spritzing yourself with rose toner, it’s time to start. This is a simple way to reset the mood, soothe the skin and promote a sense of calm. Keep this DIY rose toner in your bag and spritz yourself throughout the day for a quick reset.

2 Tbsp witch hazel

2 Tbsp distilled water

10 drops rose Essential Oil

Small glass spray bottle (2 oz)

Note

• This toner should last for 6 months and may be refrigerated for an extra cooling effect.
• If you don’t have time to make it yourself, try this Rose Flower Water.

Herbal Rose Bath Blend

I have exciting news for you: baths no longer have to be relegated to the winter months! If you’re craving a water-y self care ritual in the warmer months, try making a cooling herb bath blend. This is a wonderful practice to do surrounding the heightened intensity of a full moon.

½ cup sea salt, course

2 Tbsp organic red rose petals or buds

1 Tbsp organic orange peel

1 Tbsp organic chamomile

1 Tbsp organic lavender

1 Tbsp organic lemongrass

1. In a medium-size bowl, combine all ingredients and gently mix.
2. Pour your herbal blend directly into the bath, as it fills with warm water.
3. While you wait, give yourself a gentle oil massage to any parts of the body that are feeling tender.
4. Then, climb in and let your skin absorb all of that herbal, floral goodness.

Notes

• Cool bath experience, steep your herbal blend in a french press for 20 minutes and pour the infusion directly into a cold water bath.
• If you don’t have time or energy to make this yourself, try this Herbal Bath Blend.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the beauty and benefits of organic rose buds and petals, as well as essential oils, are undeniable. From skincare to culinary delights, the versatility of the rose knows no bounds. Starwest Botanicals stands as a trusted supplier, offering organic rose buds and petals in bulk for both consumers and businesses alike. With a commitment to quality and purity, Starwest Botanicals ensures that every product meets rigorous standards. Businesses looking to incorporate the wonders of organic roses into their offerings can apply for our wholesale program, saving up to 40% off retail prices. Explore the richness of organic roses with Starwest Botanicals today! Apply for our wholesale program here.

Bio

Molly McConnell is a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner who is committed to cultivating collective wellness. Guided by curiosity, embodied listening, and the rhythms of nature, Molly’s approach to Ayurveda is intentional and intersectional. As the cofounder of Cultivate Balance, she supports purpose-oriented people to come home to their bodies and restore resilience through nourishment, ritual, and routine. For a more immersive experience, Connect with Molly 1:1 or check out The Reset for Resilience.