The rose

Rosa x centifolia L.

The rose is one of the most beloved flowers in the world. Not only for its beauty and fragrance, but also for its culinary applications. In this blog we take you on a journey through the history of the rose plant, how to grow it yourself and what the most important components are that can contribute to our health.

History of the rose

The rose has a rich history that goes back thousands of years. Traces of roses have been found in fossils that are over 35 million years old. The first cultivated roses probably came from China, where they have been cultivated for over 5,000 years. Later, roses spread via trade routes to the Middle East and Europe.

In ancient Rome, roses were used in perfumes, medicines, and even as a symbol of power and wealth. The Persians refined the art of distilling rose water, which is still used in cosmetics and cooking today. In the Middle Ages, roses were symbols of love and spirituality, often depicted in art and literature.

Centifolia roses, which we at Releaf belong to an old group of European garden roses. They owe their name to their full, spherical flowers, which consist of an abundance of tightly packed petals. These roses are also known as hundred-petal roses or Dutch roses.

How and where does the rose grow?

Roses belong to the genus Rosa and are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, such as Europe, Asia and North America. Today, roses are cultivated worldwide, both in gardens and for commercial purposes such as perfume and tea production.

Rose bushes can range from small ground covers to climbers and shrubs that can reach several metres in height. They grow best in well-drained soil and require plenty of sunlight to flower optimally.

How to grow roses at home?

Choose a type

Decide whether you want a climbing rose, shrub rose or ground cover and choose a variety that suits your garden or balcony.

Plant in the right place

Roses love sunlight, so choose a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Use the right soil

Provide well-drained, nutritious soil with a slightly acidic pH.

Water and food

Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and fertilize the plant during the growing season.

Prune for healthy growth

Prune old and dead branches to keep the plant healthy and flowering.

Key Ingredients of Roses

Roses contain several bioactive compounds that contribute to their health benefits:

  • Vitamin C – Rose hips, the fruit of the rose, are extremely rich in vitamin C, which contributes to a strong immune system.
  • Antioxidants – Rose petals contain polyphenols and flavonoids that help fight free radicals.
  • Essential Oils – Rose oil is widely used in aromatherapy for its calming and skin conditioning properties.
  • Tannins – These natural compounds aid in digestion and have a mild astringent effect on the skin.

Interaction of the rose with the human body

The rose is much more than just a beautiful flower. Due to its diverse uses and health benefits, it remains a valuable plant for people and nature. Whether you enjoy a cup of rosehip tea, use rosewater in your skin care or simply plant a rose bush in your garden, this flower has a lot to offer. Thanks to components such as vitamin C, roses have various health benefits:

  • Anti-inflammatory – Rosehip tea and rose water can help reduce inflammation in the body.
  • Skin Care – Rose oil hydrates the skin and helps reduce redness and irritation.
  • Calming effect – The scent of roses has a calming effect and can help with stress and anxiety.
  • Digestion – Rosehip tea can aid digestion and relieve mild stomach complaints.

Source:

  • Rusanov, K. et al. (2009). “Genetics and Breeding of Oil Bearing Roses: A Review.”
  • Kracht, S. (2017). "Roses in Medicine and Cosmetics." Journal of Natural Health.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.