Rosa gallica (Rosaceae)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Rosaceae
• Common Names: French Rose, Apothecary’s Rose, Gallic Rose
• Parts Used: Petals, Hips, Leaves

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Description

Rosa gallica, commonly known as the French Rose or Apothecary’s Rose, is one of the oldest cultivated roses. Traditionally valued for its medicinal and aromatic properties, it has been widely used for digestive health, skin care, and emotional well-being.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional European herbal medicine for digestive and menstrual support.
• Valued in Persian and Ayurvedic medicine for its cooling, soothing properties.
• Applied externally for skin conditions and wound healing.
• Rosewater and rose oil have been used for centuries in cosmetics and perfumery.

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Constituents

• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Volatile oils (including citronellol, geraniol)
• Organic acids
• Vitamin C (in rose hips)

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Actions

• Astringent
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Cooling and soothing
• Mild laxative
• Antidepressant (aromatic properties)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Skin and Wound Healing:
Applied externally for burns, rashes, and wounds due to its astringent and antimicrobial properties.

2. Digestive Health:
Helps soothe inflammation in the digestive tract and can be used for mild diarrhea or gastritis.

3. Emotional and Nervous System Support:
Rose’s calming aroma is traditionally used to relieve stress, anxiety, and mild depression.

4. Women’s Health:
Used to support menstrual health and ease mild cramps.

5. Cardiovascular Support:
Rich in antioxidants that may support heart health and circulation.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Petals or Hips):

• 1-2 tsp of dried petals per cup of hot water. Steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Rosewater (Topical or Internal Use):

• Can be used as a facial toner or added to drinks for cooling effects.

Oil Infusion (Topical Use):

• Applied to skin for moisturizing and healing properties.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Allergies: Some individuals may have sensitivities to rose products.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Considered safe in moderate amounts, but consult a healthcare provider for medicinal use.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and soothing; supports the heart and digestion.
• Ayurveda: Balances Pitta and Vata, but may increase Kapha in excess.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Moves Qi, supports digestion, and nourishes the Shen (spirit).

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Combinations

• For Emotional Support: Combine with chamomile and lemon balm.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with fennel and ginger.
• For Skin Care: Combine with calendula and lavender.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Petals should be collected in full bloom; rose hips after the first frost.
• Drying: Air dry in a shaded area with good ventilation.
• Storage: Store dried petals and rose hips in airtight containers away from heat and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Rosa gallica’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-healing properties, reinforcing its traditional uses.

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French Rose remains a highly valued plant in herbal medicine, particularly for skin health, emotional balance, and digestive support.