The much-fabled rose has served as inspiration for poets and lovers for centuries. But there’s as much joy and healing to be found in its fragrance and essence as there is in its sublime beauty. Whether as an essential oil or rosewater, this poetic bloom has been used for years to lift flagging spirits and bring a flush of health to the cheeks.

Glow
Rose oil is a popular ingredient in skin treatments, thanks to its powerful antimicrobial properties. Apply a few drops before bedtime, mixed into your regular night cream. It is also a useful product to have in your anti-ageing arsenal – the firming and astringent qualities of rose oil will help counteract wrinkles and sagging skin. Its easy absorption will give you a non-greasy finish within minutes of application. To make rose oil a part of your bathing ritual, add a few drops of oil to your bath water for naturally soft and moisturised skin.

Bounce

Massaging rose oil into your scalp will strengthen the roots of your hair and keep it squeaky clean. Another handy tip is to rub the oil into the ends of your hair. It’ll lock moisture into your strands, protect it from pollutants, and keep it smelling great for hours.

Move

Rose oil is a powerful pain reliever. A massage with this oil helps to relax the muscles, and relieves muscular tension or spasms. Gently rubbing rose oil on your stomach can help with cramps and PMS too.

Breathe

Inhaling the scent of rose oil through an infuser reduces stress, anxiety and physical tension. Rubbing a few drops on your wrist, neck and temples in a circular motion helps to calm the nerves and lifts the mood. To use it as a perfume, mix a few drops to distilled water in a spritzer or apply directly to your inner wrists, elbows, neck and behind the ears. Doesn’t hurt that the fragrance of roses is a natural aphrodisiac!

Heal

Rose essential oil soothes the skin instantly and eases away any irritation or redness. It’s a natural anti-inflammatory agent, so it can also help in the quick healing of scratches.

Burn

Inhaling, massaging or bathing with rose oil is said to help maintain a clean gut, aid weight loss and eliminate toxicity. It does this by reducing cellulite and water retention, and regulating the hormone balance in the body.