Christmas Time - Christmas Roses

Rose is a gorgeous Rose, Queen of the flowers.

John Gerard in his"The Herbal or General History of Plants" in 1633 defined the roses as " the most glorious flowers of the world."

Roses of any kind inspired the whole Christian lore, poets, musicians and artists.

The Red Rose is a symbol of love, pure heart and considered a holy plant.
The White Rose is a symbol of secrecy and wisdom, charm and sympathy.

One of the very popular Christmas song" Lo how a rose e'er blooming" is written by Michael Praetorius in 1609 and translated into English by Theodore Baker in 1894 celebrates the Holy family and Roses that has been interlaced into the Christmas story.
  With the first steps of Christianity, the Rose was forbidden to be used as symbol due to its pagan past and because of its earlier association with Venus and Bachhus. But later, this way of thinking was changed and actually it was the church that was mainly responsible for bringing the Rose across to Europe and to the other lands.

  For centuries Roses were praised not only for their beauty but for their properties as well.
Rose water is always been used in Christmas baking for purity and wonderful flavor. It is a by-product of the distillation of the essential oil of Roses. Rose water is mild astringent, antiseptic with amazing soothing qualities, that is great for inflamed and sore eyes. "Red-rose water is of well-known and familiar use in all occasions(and better than damask-rose water) being cooling and cordial, quickening the weak and faint spirits, used either in meats or broths ... and the temples of the head also against pain and ache, for which purpose also vinegar of roses is of great service,"Nicholas Culpeper (1616-1654)
During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the Rose was valued as a remedy for depression.
In aromatherapy, the Rose essential oil, "attar of rose", is used as a mild sedative, antidepressant, anti inflammatory remedy. Certainly, all essential oils must be taken internally under professional supervision.
Rose petals and preparations from them have alike actions and aid to reduce high cholesterol level as well.

Roses are edible flowers. Ancient Romans first introduced eating Rose petals to Europe.
You can make a tea with just Rose petals or add dry Rose petals to your favorite green or black tea. Unfortunately, Florist Roses will not work and it quite dangerous to use, as they all heavily sprayed with pesticides while they grow. Plus, they do not have the wonderful fragrance and do not have any goodness.

The Rose "is ornament of the earth, the pride of the plant kingdom, the crown of the flowers, the purple of the meadows, the reflection of beauty."- Achilleus Tatios (2d centuary BCE)
Have a happy Christmas Time :)