Botanical Overview
Rosa × damascena, commonly known as Damask rose or Rose of Damascus, belongs to the Rosaceae family. The plant is cultivated extensively in the Middle East, Mediterranean region, Bulgaria, Iran, and Turkey. The primary parts used medicinally are the flower petals and rose hips. It is treasured for its aromatic and therapeutic properties.
Energetics
Rosa × damascena exhibits cooling temperature effects and moistening qualities. Its taste profile is sweet, bitter, and astringent. Directionally, it is considered centering and descending, with relaxing tonicity, primarily affecting the blood.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Antioxidant
- Astringent
- Mood-enhancing
- Emollient
Indications
Western
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Menstrual cramps
- Skin irritation
- Inflammation
- Upper respiratory infections
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
Syndromes
- Neurasthenia
- Mild depression
- Menstrual irregularities
- Dermatitis
- Common cold
TCM
- Blood deficiency
- Irritability
- Emotional instability
- Menstrual pain
- Skin dryness
Syndromes
- Liver Qi stagnation
- Heart blood deficiency
- Yin deficiency
Ayurveda
- Vata imbalance
- Anxiety
- Skin dryness
- Menstrual discomfort
Syndromes
- Pitta disorders
- Vata disorders
- Heart and reproductive system imbalances
Unani
- Melancholia
- Menstrual disorders
- Skin inflammation
Syndromes
- Safra imbalance
- Blood hotness
- Nervous system disorders
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains key phytochemicals such as citronellol, geraniol, nerol, flavonoids including kaempferol and quercetin, phenolic acids, and terpenes. These contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and mood-enhancing effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Rose water distillate for topical and aromatic use
- Essential oil diluted for aromatherapy and topical application
- Infusion of dried petals: 1-2 g in 150 ml hot water, 2-3 times daily
- Rose hip powder or extract standardized to vitamin C content
Safety & Contraindications
Rosa × damascena is generally safe in typical doses. Allergic reactions or skin irritation may occur in sensitive individuals. Use cautiously during pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. Avoid in individuals with rose or fragrance allergies.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary ruler: Venus; Elemental rulers: Water and Earth, reflecting its cooling, moistening energetics and association with love and beauty.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future Database: Rosa × damascena – Damask Rose
- World Health Organization Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 2 – Rosa damascena Mill.
- European Medicines Agency – HMPC Assessment Report: Rosae Flos – Rose Flower
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology: Phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Rosa damascena
- Grieve, M. (1931) A Modern Herbal: Rosa damascena
- Moerman, D. (1998) Native American Ethnobotany: Ethnobotanical Uses of Rosa damascena
- Ellingwood’s Therapeutist: Astrological Herbal Correspondences