Rose de Mai Medicinal Uses & DIY Herbal Remedies For Beauty & Health Care

Aaina
Written by Aaina on
Rose de Mai Medicinal Uses & DIY Herbal Remedies For Beauty & Health Care

Let’s talk about a superstar of the floral world that’s more than just a pretty face. Say hello to Rosa centifolia Linn., famously known as the Cabbage Rose, a plant that’s packed with petals and a history as rich as its scent. This bloom isn’t just for perfumers and romantics; it’s a medicinal powerhouse that’s been revered in Ayurveda for centuries.

Now, if you think a rose is just a rose, hold on to your gardening gloves! We’re diving deep into this fragrant flower, exploring everything from its ancient uses to modern-day research. Trust us, by the end of this, you’ll be looking at roses very differently.

A Peek into the Rose Garden: History and Botany

Let’s rewind to the 16th century, when Dutch botanists worked their magic to cultivate this beauty. The Cabbage Rose likely has its origins from a blend of Gallic and Damask roses, giving it the full-bodied charm it flaunts today. With more than 150 original varieties and 2500 hybrids spread across India alone, you can imagine the kind of genetic cocktail this plant offers.

Now, Cabbage rose may sound like a salad ingredient, but its name comes from the tight layering of its petals that resemble, well, a cabbage. This shrubby plant can grow up to 2 meters tall with thorny branches, serrated leaves, and an array of colorful, fragrant flowers ranging from pink to red to white (and sometimes yellow!). It’s mainly grown for its heavenly scent and is the queen of commercial rose oil production. But don’t let its delicate appearance fool you—this rose is tough and thrives in colder regions like India and Europe.

The Cabbage Rose in Ayurveda: A Floral Pharmacy

In Ayurveda, every plant plays a role in health, and Cabbage Rose is no exception. Known as Shatapatri or Taruni, this rose has earned a front-row seat in traditional medicine. Let’s break down why.

According to Ayurveda, the Cabbage Rose:

  • Hridya (Cardio tonic): Strengthening your heart, both metaphorically and literally, the rose is a symbol of emotional balance and cardiac health.
  • Medhya (Brain tonic): It’s said to sharpen the mind while calming the nerves.
  • Twachya (Beneficial for skin): With properties that make your skin glow, the rose is the skincare guru of the natural world.
  • Ruchya (Enhances taste): Who knew roses could be a digestive aid?
  • Vrushya (Aphrodisiac): This flower has more to it than meets the eye (or nose).
  • Kushthaghna (Anti-leprosy): Yes, it’s potent enough to tackle tough skin diseases like leprosy.
  • Grahi (Absorbent): Aids in digestion by improving nutrient absorption.

This rose isn’t just another pretty bloom in the garden—it’s your very own floral pharmacy.

From Root to Petals: Medicinal Uses of the Cabbage Rose

Roses have always been more than just a pretty face, especially Rosa centifolia (aka the Cabbage Rose). From soothing coughs to healing wounds, this botanical beauty works wonders from root to petal. Let’s break down how every part of the Cabbage Rose can help you live your best life.

Roots: Nature’s Gut Doctor

Bet you didn’t think rose roots had a place in your medicine cabinet, huh? Well, surprise! Rose roots have been historically used to treat intestinal ulcers, diarrhea, and even rickets. Their astringent properties help tone the gut and ease digestive discomforts. Fun fact: Native American tribes brewed the roots into a decoction to calm children’s coughs. Who knew?

Leaves: Wound Healers & Eye Soothers

Got a cut? Cabbage Rose leaves to the rescue! These green miracle workers help heal wounds,hepatopathy and hemorrhoids while also soothing eye ailments like conjunctivitis. Their anti-inflammatory properties make them a great natural remedy for dealing with minor injuries.

Flowers: The Real Showstoppers

Sure, the petals are pretty, but they’re also serious overachievers! Rose petals aren’t just for swooning over; they’re anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac, and even act as blood tonics. These floral powerhouses are great for your heart, support respiratory health, and—here’s a sweet tip—Gulkand (rose petal jam) works magic on sore throats and swollen tonsils.

But ancient healers took it even further. Rose petals were prized for their cooling, calming, and heart-strengthening properties. They were the go-to remedy for everything from asthma and high blood pressure to bronchitis, diarrhea, fever, insomnia, and stress. Need to ease menstrual cramps or relieve fluid retention? Roses had your back—er, petals.

One particular superstar, R. damascena, was used for treating chest and abdominal pain, heart health, and digestive issues. Plus, it was known to reduce neck inflammation. Talk about a multi-tasking flower!

Rose Petals Breakdown:

  • Antioxidant & antitussive (goodbye, coughs!).
  • Helps relax blood vessels (bye-bye, vasoconstriction).
  • Antibacterial superstar.
  • Studies show it may even inhibit the growth of leukemia cells. Not bad for a bunch of petals, right?

Rosehips: The Immunity Booster

Rosehips, the fruit of the rose, are packed with Vitamin C, making them a go-to for boosting your immune system. Rosehip tincture is especially helpful during cold and flu season, and its astringent properties can even soothe an upset stomach or diarrhea.

Rose Water & Oil: A Skincare Dream

You’ve probably heard of rose water in fancy skincare products, but it’s not just hype. Rose water helps soothe sunburn, sore eyes, and even keeps your skin looking fresh. As for rose oil? It’s the multitasking queen! Not only does it fight off bacterial infections,reduces thirst, heals old coughs, but it also lifts your mood, calms menstrual cramps, and relieves headaches.Rose oil vapor therapy is also helpful for some allergies, headaches, and migraine

The Phytochemistry: Key Compounds in the Cabbage Rose

Now, let’s geek out on the chemistry behind what makes the Cabbage Rose so magical. This plant isn’t just about good looks—its flowers are packed with powerhouse compounds.

  • Phenyl ethanol (43%): This antibacterial and anti-inflammatory superstar is also responsible for that signature rosy scent.
  • Geraniol (10.5%): A natural antioxidant that’s all about skin rejuvenation and wound healing.
  • Citronellol: Not just for bug spray! This compound is anti-inflammatory and doubles as an insect repellent.
  • Tannins: They tighten tissues and are perfect for an astringent effect on your skin.
  • Pectin & Riboflavin: Together, they are key for wound healing and maintaining eye health.
  • Glyocides Multiflorin A & B : They are purgative agents which stimulate intestinal motility, aiding in constipation relief.

Other notables? Nerol, Linalool and benzyl alcohol, which have calming effects on the nervous system. No wonder rose oil is a popular choice for dealing with stress, depression, and nervous tension. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, maybe just… stop and smell the roses. Literally.

Roses, but Make it Medicine: Dosage and Formulations

Now, let’s talk about how to actually get the benefits of this plant. Whether you’re a traditionalist who loves brewing teas or someone who prefers modern formulations, the Cabbage Rose has got you covered. Here’s how you can use it:

Rose Water: The Ultimate Skin Refresher

Rose water is the by-product and has been used in everything from desserts to cosmetics, and even for calming the nerves.

Rose water prepared from the leaves is not only an effective astringent that reduces swelling of capillaries beneath the skin, it also relieve from constipation, clears blood, and soothes the mind. Additionally, it is really helpful in the treatment of measles and chicken pox as well.

Rose water is also a popular base for many Ayurvedic formulations, like Ratna Pishti, where coral, pearls, or even rubies are processed with rose water to increase their medicinal value. Some key Ayurvedic concoctions include:

  • Pravala Pishti: Rosewater-infused coral medicine useful for cough, cold, and Pitta related diseases.
  • Mukta Pishti: Pearl and rosewater based medicine used to treat diarrhea with bleeding and even mental health conditions like psychosis.
  • Manikya Pishti: Medicine prepared from Ruby and rosewater to treat oligospermia and boost immunity.

Rose Oil: Skincare Savior

Extracted via steam distillation, rose oil is packed with flavonoids, tannins, and vitamins A, B3, C, D, and E—basically everything your skin craves. It’s mixed with carrier oils (like almond or grapefruit) to treat a wide range of conditions from hemorrhage, liver issues, dehydration, ulcers, and asthma, to bacterial infections in the stomach,colon, and urinary tract. A total overachiever.

Rose Petal Tea: Sip Away Your Troubles

Who wouldn’t want to drink their roses? Rose petal tea not only gently cleanses the liver and gallbladder, it also improves bile secretion, helps with sore throats and bronchial infections, and reduces fever-related rashes. Plus, it cools the body—perfect for those sweltering summer days.

Gulkand: The Sweet Medicine

Gulkand isn’t just your grandma’s favorite sweet treat—it’s like a one-stop-shop for fixing all sorts of pesky body issues. From calming down your fiery Pitta to taming those intestinal swellings, it’s got your back. And let’s not forget the bonus round of fighting off sweat stains and funky smells—Gulkand turns you into a beautiful fragrant bouquet!

Packed with more antioxidants than your morning smoothie, Gulkand isn’t just dessert; it’s practically a health elixir. Summer survival tip: gobble up some Gulkand and save yourself from nosebleeds, and frying like an egg on the sidewalk due to sunstroke. It also helps you tackle bloating due to water retention by making you pee like a racehorse (in a good way).

Whether you’re battling skin issues, menstrual woes, or just need to zen out, Gulkand’s got your back, one tasty spoonful at a time.

Gulab Arka: Eye & Body Coolant

This rose petal distillate works wonders for burning eyes and is a lifesaver when it comes to beating body odor. So, the next time summer has you sweating bullets, Gulab Arka’s got your back.

  • Powder: 1–3 grams
  • Gulkand: 10–20 grams (Yes, a jam that’s medicine!)
  • Arka (Distillate): 20–40 grams
  • Rose Oil: For skincare, just a few drops of rose oil mixed with a carrier oil will work wonders for your complexion and mood.

The Ayurvedic Rose: Balancing Your Body from Head to Toe

Ayurveda hails the Cabbage Rose as a balancing act for all three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. With its cooling, light properties, it’s perfect for calming an overactive mind and soothing inflamed skin. Whether you need help with digestion, heart health, or emotional well-being, this rose has you covered.

Ayurvedic Properties

  • Rasa (Taste): Tikta (bitter) and Katu (pungent)
  • Guna (Qualities): Hima (cooling) and Laghu (light)
  • Veerya (Potency): Sheet (cooling effect)
  • Prabhava (Special Action): Tridosha-shamak (balances all three doshas)

Medicinally, cabbage rose is praised for being Hrudya (cardio tonic), Shukrala (reproductive tonic), and Twachya (skin-enhancing). It has potent effects on skin health, digestion, and even emotional balance. In simple terms, it’s nature’s way of helping you stay cool, inside and out.

Roses Around the World: Geographical Distribution & Habitat Preferences

This rose species doesn’t limit itself to any single region. You can find Rosa centifolia thriving across Europe, India, and even parts of the Americas. It loves temperate climates, though it can adapt to slightly colder regions as well. Some of the best cabbage roses are cultivated in Kashmir, Garhwal, and even the valleys of Bengal, where they enjoy the cool breezes and mild climates.

However, if you’re not based in one of these prime rose-growing areas, don’t worry. Cabbage roses have proven to be quite resilient and can thrive in home gardens around the world — provided you give them plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil.

A Rose by Many Names: Synonyms Across Cultures

Ever wonder how many ways you can say “rose”? Turns out, this global beauty has quite the international identity. Here are some of its common names across the world:

  • Sanskrit: Shatapatri, Taruni
  • Hindi/Marathi: Gulab
  • English: Cabbage Rose
  • Tamil: Troja
  • Bengali: Sweet Gulab
  • Persian: Gulisurkha
  • French: Rose de Mai, Provence Rose, De Meaux, Pompon Rose

Each name often hints at its region-specific usage, from culinary delights to medicinal elixirs. Isn’t it incredible how one flower can wear so many hats?

Synonyms Based on Unique Characteristics: The Queen of Names

Cabbage rose’s synonyms are poetic and descriptive, reflecting its many uses and traits:

  • Shatapatri (Hundred-leaved): Refers to its lush, multi-layered petals.
  • Taruni (Youthful): Suggests its rejuvenating properties.
  • Karnika (Earring-like): Describes the flower’s shape, often compared to jewelry.

In some texts, you might even come across names like Ramataruni or Dvirephagana-sammata, which evoke its divine fragrance and curative powers.

Modern Research & Pharmacological Benefits of Cabbage Rose

Let’s dive into the reasons why Rosa centifolia deserves a spot in your medicine cabinet. Here are just a few of its star performances:

  1. Heart-Healthy Hero: Roses are not just symbols of love—they actually love your heart back. The Cabbage Rose acts as a natural cardio tonic, improving overall heart function. Studies even show it mimics the effects of Digoxin, a well-known heart medication, but in a gentler way, and without the side effects.Researcher also states that it may be a safe alternative to Digoxin in the treatment of congestive cardiac failure. Alcoholic extract of Rosa centifolia Linn showed similar therapeutic index like cardiac glycosides.
  2. Chill Pills: Feeling frazzled? Fresh rose flowers double as a natural sedative, calming those nerves like a spa day in a bottle.
  3. Joints on Point: Got creaky knees? Rosa centifolia’s aqueous extracts might just be your ticket to easing rheumatoid arthritis discomfort, offering a gentler alternative to traditional treatments.
  4. Say Goodbye to Inflammation: These flower extracts bring the anti-inflammatory A-game, thanks to their flavonoid friends. Goodbye, achy joints!
  5. Pain Relief, Petal Power Style: Need a painkiller? Rosa centifolia’s methanol, ethyl acetate, and benzene extracts don’t just smell nice—they’re potent analgesics, scoring big against discomfort in tests. Swiss albino Mice agree—this stuff works!
  6. Banish Bacteria: Got germs? While ethyl acetate extract was active against P. aeruginosa only, methanolic extracts from rose petals, leaves and stem showed potent antibacterial properties,acting like a kryptonite against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and friends. Take that, pesky pathogens!
  7. Colorful Defence: Whether red,pink or orange, Rosa indica isn’t picky about which bacteria it tackles. Ethanolic extracts from these beauties mean business against E. coli and P. aeruginosa. Phytochemical screening and antibacterial activity study indicated that alkaloids, flavonides, saponins, tannins and phenols were responsible for antibacterial activity of rose.
  8. Aromatic Relief: Got Cramps? Period pains are believed to be ‘anaemic pains’ caused by reduced bloodflow due to uterine hyperactivity. The fix? Think improved blood circulation, and antispasmodic and hormone tamers. Topically applying some lavender, clary sage, and rose offers a sweet relief taking the edge off Aunt Flo’s wild side.
  9. Zen in a Bottle: Stressed? Rose oil with its analgesic and anxiolytic effects is your ticket to physiological and psychological relaxation city. From soothing nerves to calming your nerves, this oil does it all with floral finesse.

DIY Traditional Home Remedies: Roses in Your Kitchen

Got some roses lying around? Perfect! Turns out, Cabbage Roses aren’t just pretty—they’re practically a medicine cabinet in bloom. Whether you’re battling a sore throat, dealing with pesky gastritis, or just need to feel fresh, here are some fun, easy DIY remedies you can whip up at home.

  • Rose Petal Paste for Wounds: Got a small cut? Skip the band-aid and make a paste of dried powder or crushed petals, and dab it on for faster healing, with a little floral flair.
  • Rose Tea for Gastritis: Stomach giving you trouble? Brew up some rose petal tea with 5gm of dried petals paste. It helps soothe gastritis and even duodenal ulcers. Plus, it’s way tastier than most meds.
  • Rose Water for Burning Eyes: Feeling the burn (in your eyes, not the gym)? A couple of drops of rose water can cool things down in no time. Instant eye refresh!
  • Petal Paste for Sweating: Apply some rose petal paste on your body to curb that extra sweat and leave you smelling like, well, roses.
  • Rose Tea for Constipation: Not feeling regular? A decoction made from rose buds—20-30 ml a day—acts as a gentle laxative. Say goodbye to constipation!
  • Gargle for Sore Throats: Rose petal tea isn’t just for drinking. Gargle it to soothe a sore throat and feel like a rose again.
  • Vitamin C-Packed Rosehips: Rosehips (the fruit of the wild rose) have three times more Vitamin C than oranges! They’re your go-to for preventing scurvy and boosting immunity.
  • Herbal Rose Tea for Acidity: Brew up some rose petals and sip your way to relief from acidity, body heat, and that uncomfortable dry mouth feeling. Bonus: it fights off intestinal infections too.

So, next time you’re looking at a rose, don’t just admire it—use it!

Side Effects and Safety: Handle With Care

Like all good things in life, moderation is key. While cabbage roses are generally safe, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions when using rose oil or rose water. Always do a patch test first.
  • Laxative Properties: If you consume too much Gulkand or rose petal jam, you might find yourself spending more time in the bathroom than expected.
  • Essential Oil Caution: Rose oil is highly concentrated. Pregnant women and those with sensitive skin should avoid using it without consulting a healthcare provider.

Apart from these minor concerns, cabbage roses are gentle healers that are safe for most people.

Conclusion: More Than Just Petals

Cabbage Rose, are more than just a Valentine’s Day go-to or an Instagram prop for #SelfCareSunday. We’ve walked through the petals (literally) and uncovered that this humble flower is a serious multi-tasker, playing the role of doctor, therapist, and beauty guru all at once.

Whether it’s fixing your gut, cooling your fevers, or helping you fight off bacteria like a tiny floral superhero, the Cabbage Rose proves that sometimes, the most powerful remedies are hiding in plain sight. And let’s be real, the fact that something so effective is also ridiculously pretty? That’s just the cherry on top.

So next time you stop to smell the roses, don’t stop there. Brew them, paste them, gargle them. In a world obsessed with pharmaceuticals, it’s kind of refreshing to realize that some answers are as simple as a flower blooming in your backyard.

Now go ahead, brew that rose tea, slather on some rose oil, or indulge in gulkand. Your body and mind will thank you.🌹


Frequently Asked Questions

The Cabbage Rose, also known by its scientific name *Rosa Centifolia*, is an old-world beauty famous for its dense petals that look like—you guessed it—cabbage layers. Known for its sweet fragrance and romantic vibe, it’s a favorite in perfumes, wedding bouquets, and even skincare!

Cabbage Roses thrive best in well-drained soil and full sun. They love warm climates (think USDA zones 5-9) but can survive mild winters. Make sure to give them space to breathe—good air circulation helps prevent pesky diseases. Water regularly, but don’t drown them, and prune them back in the dormant season for a fuller bloom next year.

Yep! Cabbage Rose petals are totally edible and often used in jams, teas, and desserts. Rose petal tea is especially popular for soothing digestive issues like gastritis. Just make sure you're using organic, pesticide-free petals if you’re going the edible route!

Cabbage Rose (*Rosa Centifolia*) has those iconic, dense blooms, while the Damask Rose (*Rosa damascena*) is known for its more open, looser petals. Both are heavy hitters in the perfume world, but Cabbage Rose is often used for its essential oil in skincare, while Damask Rose is more prized for its aromatic oil.

In traditional medicine, cabbage roses been used to treat sore throats, digestive issues, and even skin problems. Rose water is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for calming irritated skin and soothing eyes.

Cabbage Rose is a skincare superstar. Its petals and oils are loaded with antioxidants, making them great for anti-aging. You’ll find it in face mists, creams, and essential oils, all aimed at giving your skin a healthy glow. Plus, it smells amazing—who wouldn’t want to smell like roses?

**Rose de Mai** refers to the May Rose, a type of Cabbage Rose traditionally harvested in May, especially in Provence, France. It’s prized for its delicate, fresh scent and is widely used in high-end perfumes.

Sweet, heady, and floral with a hint of honey. It’s the kind of fragrance that fills a room and lingers long after the petals have wilted. No wonder it’s a star in perfumes!

You can find Cabbage Rose plants and seeds at local nurseries, specialty gardening stores, and online. Make sure you’re purchasing from a trusted source to ensure the variety and quality of the plant.

Yes, and it’s super easy! Simply simmer fresh petals in distilled water until the petals lose their color. Strain, and voilà—homemade rose water. Use it as a facial mist, a gentle toner, or even as an eye drop for tired, irritated eyes.

Rose de Mai essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of the Cabbage Rose petals, particularly the ones harvested in May. It takes thousands of petals to produce just a few drops, which is why it’s so precious and often found in high-end perfumes and skincare.

Totally! They attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a great addition to any eco-friendly garden. Plus, their petals are biodegradable and perfect for composting!

While the main star of Rose de Mai is its fragrance, its petals can also be used in culinary creations, like rose petal jam or as a delicate garnish for salads and desserts. It adds a touch of elegance—and a floral flavor boost!

Aaina

Aaina

Aaina, a statistics graduate with a passion for natural remedies, blends analytical rigor with non-invasive alternative healing. Inspired by wellness experts, she explores ancient remedies to enhance health and vitality, always striving to deepen her knowledge and support your wellness journey.