Roses have special health benefits in addition to the feeling of warmth, giving, and love they provide. There are many therapeutic benefits of roses that go back a long time in history. Roses have a special scent that gives wonderful aromatherapy effects for the heart and sense of well being. Within the petals, you will find rose oil and rose water, which are often transformed into a topical substance. An extraction of fresh pink rose petals yields an essential oil that is used as an antidepressant, antiseptic, antiviral, laxative and for tonic benefits. The essential oils of lavender, geranium, bergamot, and chamomile are frequently mixed with scented rose oil in aromatherapy products

The therapeutic benefits of roses are mostly associated with topical products for skin care. It has powerful antiseptic properties to soothe and heal skin conditions including cuts and burns and as a cell rejuvenator. The creams and lotions are used for dry and sensitive skin and toning of aging skin making it look younger. Rose oil can also soothe the nerves when used as a therapeutic sedative. It is beneficial as a treatment for stress, peptic ulcers, nervous tensions, and even heart disease. The power of a single rose has many beneficial effects on health and well being.

Rose petals are put through a double distillation process that produces two products, the first is attar of roses and the by-product is rose water. This process is very expensive and the products are often reserved for skin creams and lotions, suitable for all skin types. Rose oil is often used as massage oil because of its soothing effects.

Other benefits from roses include having a positive influence on such conditions as circulation, bile secretion, digestion, and problems with nausea and constipation. It is also used as a detoxifier that purges the body of toxins and waste products. Many individuals add rose petals to a cup of hot tea to soothe a sore throat or to calm their nerves. After the flowers die if the stem is not pruned a rose hip (seed pod) will form. Rose hip tea helps to alleviate bladder infections and diarrhea. This tea is also a great source of vitamin C. Other vitamins that you can find in rose hips include E, D, B3 and A.

Roses have played a role throughout history as romantic symbols. As symbols of love and marriage, roses are often given to celebrate Valentine's Day. Cleopatra,according to legend, seduced Mark Anthony with rose oil. Roses were used as decorations for weddings and funerals by East Indians and Romans. It was believed that if you scattered the petals at banquets it would prevent drunkenness. Roses were often used to decorate shields of warriors. They were frequently used for religious rituals and as an integral part of meditation rituals.

There are many therapeutic benefits as well as the visual and sensory delight they impart. When you stop to see and smell a beautiful rose be sure to experience the uplifting feeling they create.