Rose
There are many different species of rose — Rosa spp. Many herbalists and tea makers like to use wild roses (Rosa canina)though other aromatic species work very well and all rose flowers (petals or buds)are safe for consumption. Roses belong to the Rosaceae family.
Taste Profile
When consumed, dried meadowsweet has a sweet taste, along with aromatic and hay-like flavours, and some people also notice medicinal and almond notes. It offers a well-rounded, mellow flavour when enjoyed as a simple beverage, reminiscent of summer evenings in a meadow!
Active Constituents
Salicylic acid, volatile oil, spireine (salicylaldehyde), gaultherine, flavonoids, tannins, mucilage and coumarins
Therapeutic Properties
Analgesic, antacid, antiemetic, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, relaxant, stomachic and urinary antiseptic.
Traditional Uses
Meadowsweet has a long history of traditional use as a gentle remedy for digestive issues such as diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting. It is known for its ability to ease excess acid and indigestion. Additionally, it was one of the original sources of aspirin and is valued for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in addressing headaches and musculoskeletal issues like arthritis.
Contraindications
Do not use when there is a known aspirin sensitivity. Do not use alongside anticoagulants.
Taste Profile
As you may have noticed by smelling different types of roses, some are more fragrant than others, which can affect the taste of a dried rose petal or bud in tea. A fragrant rose will have a floral, powdery, aromatic taste, slightly astringent, and sometimes mildly sweet but occasionally slightly bitter. Rose makes a delightful infusion, creating a light and refreshing beverage.
Active Constituents
Tannins, pectin, carotene, fruit acids and vitamins (especially in the rose hips).
Therapeutic Properties
Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, nervine and nutritive.
Traditional Uses
Rose flowers can be used to gently tone the gut in cases of diarrhoea and to reduce excess stomach acid. Seen traditionally as a female remedy, rose is used to support period problems and menopause. Externally, it is used to tone the skin and reduce inflammation.
Contraindications
Due to the emmenagogue action, you may wish to avoid during pregnancy.
