I pick the organic rose for toning skin, protecting against viruses, infections, old scaring and low spirits.  I admire its aesthetic and form before crushing petals to extract their essence, capturing the perfume as I breathe in. I wonder if those who gift them for romance are aware of their alleged antispasmodic, cooling, emmenagogue, nervine or laxative tendencies. Then I smile, knowing this medicine is unknowingly being shared.

Rose petals spiral,

hushed open secrets wakeful,

each has power to sooth.

Antonia Sara Zenkevitch

(N.B, for anyone inspired to use roses in healing I do not pretend to be medically qualified. My mum has used glycerine and rosewater all her life for her sensitive skin and I’ve found various uses for the beautiful fragrant flowers. Although the purported therapeutic properties of roses have been known and employed for centuries, I am in no way suggesting they are a cure-all. Please don’t stop taking any medicines or therapies prescribed by the experts. Never use rose petals or oil unless you know no harmful inorganic or organic substances have been used in the soil or on the flowers themselves. Caution and/or moderation should be used if you suffer from headaches, if you are pregnant or if you are prone to allergies/hayfever. The responsibility and choice are yours. If in doubt there is still the simple joy of meditating on the shape, colour, and scent – now that’s medicine. )