Hi everyone!
Does that surprise you? The herb of the year is the Rose? It surprised me when I heard about it last summer! I never think of a rose as an herb. However, if we refer back to the definition I posted:
What the word “herb” really means
A very fitting definition that defines herbs by their usefulness rather than by their appearance or botanical structure was coined by Holly Shimizu, director of the U.S. Botanic Garden. Holly says, ―Herbs are defined as plants (trees, shrubs, vines, perennials, biennials or annuals) valued historically, presently, or potentially for their flavor, fragrance, medicinal qualities, insecticidal qualities, economic or industrial use, or in the case of dyes, for the coloring material they provide.
Roses definitely fit into that category.
**Very Important: ONLY use culinary roses. NEVER use roses from a florist. They are treated several times with chemicals. Use the roses you grow if you do not use chemicals on them or look for local organic growers.**
Culinary Use
Rose petal and rose hips are used a lot to make jams, jellies, cordials, vinegars and sweets. Rose flavoured Turkish delight has been produced in Turkey since the 15th century and is known there as lokum.
Rosehip syrup is a natural source of vitamin C, containing 20 times more vitamin C than oranges by weight.
Recipe - Rose Vinegar
I found this recipe for treating mild headaches and as a gargle for sore throats. It's also good to use as a facial toner.
Quantities
- 3 Handfuls Fresh Highly Scented Rose Petals (red or deep pink give the best colour).
- 7 Tbsp's Distilled White Vinegar.
- 1 Pint Distilled Water.
Method
- Place the rose petals in a glass container and add the white vinegar
- Leave the container in a cool, dark place for 1 week, shaking the liquid every day
- Strain through a muslin cloth and discard the petals
- To use, dilute the 1 Tbsp of rose vinegar with 1 pint of waterSource: Herb Society.org
I will be sharing different things I try with roses this year. There are so many fun and interesting uses for roses. Who knew?
I’m joining:
I was surprised to see that Roses are considered herbs, but I really should have known better. I have some Vanilla, Strawberry Rose tea in the cupboard that sounds just perfect here on this cold winter day. Hope your Sunday is a wonderful one.
ReplyDeleteGood Morning Diann Sweetie...
ReplyDeleteWho would have thought? Not me. I have enjoyed their fragrance,
celebrated their beauty, and loved the joy they have brought
to my heart when I see their buds appear, but did not know
they had a medicinal purpose at all. We learn something knew
each day.
I am writing this bit of information down. My roses have just
become more valuable. I may have to try this recipe. I so need
a good facial toner. Thanks for sharing sweet friend.
Have a gorgeous Sunday. Country hugs and much love, Sherry
Very interesting. I'm following on Linky would you follow back. Pat
ReplyDeleteI love roses. They are so fragrant. This was a wonderful recipe. Take care.
ReplyDeleteI did know that you could use rose petals and rose hips for a variety of things but I did not know it could be classified as a herb. Very interesting!
ReplyDeleteJust exquisite mosaic!!! Well done! Cathy
ReplyDeleteMmm. Roses are wonderful. I made some rose syrup a few years ago that added converted the fragrance into flavour. Love the mosaic.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous roses, and who would think of these beauties as an herb?
ReplyDeleteJudith
What a fun and interesting post!! The roses are gorgeous and the information about roses being herbs ... who knew??!!!!! I guess if I had thought about it, I would have known! :D :D
ReplyDeleteWho da thunk. Great information. From your newest follower.
ReplyDelete