I. Introduction to Roses

The "Compendium of Materia Medica" states: "The rose is clear without being turbid, harmonizing without being harsh. It soothes the liver, awakens the stomach, regulates Qi, activates blood, and clears stagnation, all without the drawbacks of pungent warmth or harsh dryness. It is undoubtedly among Qi-regulating medicines the most effective and gentle, and among fragrant herbs, nearly unmatched."

The freshly opened flowers and roots of the rose can be used medicinally, having effects such as regulating Qi, activating blood, and promoting astringency. They are primarily used to treat irregular menstruation, injuries from falls and blows, liver Qi and stomach pain, breast abscesses and swelling, etc. Modern medical research has also found that roses contain over 300 chemical components, such as aromatic alcohols, aldehydes, fatty acids, phenols, and oils and fats containing essences. Regular consumption of rose products can soothe the liver, awaken the stomach, promote Qi and blood circulation, beautify the skin, and refresh the spirit.

II. Medicinal Value of Roses

In traditional Chinese medicine, individuals who are irritable and quick to anger are often seen as having varying degrees of Liver Qi Stagnation or Stagnant Liver Fire transforming into Fire. It may be helpful to drink some medicinal tea for regulation, and rose tea is an excellent choice.

The rose is praised as the "holy herb for relieving depression" and acts as a "fire extinguisher" for "hot tempers." It has the effects of regulating Qi, relieving depression, activating blood, and dispersing stasis. Drinking rose tea in moderation can be beneficial when feeling irritable or depressed.

III. Usage of Roses

The simplest method is to take 9-15 grams of rose buds daily, place them in a transparent glass, steep in boiling water for 5 minutes, and then drink as tea. Additionally, roses can be added to wines, pastries, preserves, and dishes. Furthermore, if the tongue coating is yellow and there is a bitter taste in the mouth, 9 grams of Hangzhou chrysanthemum can be added to the medicinal tea. For those who often feel fatigued, which indicates Qi deficiency, 3-5 jujubes can be added. For those with stronger internal fire, adding 3 grams of lily bulb and 3 grams of citrus reticulum can enhance the effects of soothing the liver, regulating Qi, and calming the mind.

Finally, it is important to note that roses are not a "medicine for women only"; they are equally suitable for men as long as the indications are met. Also, it is best not to steep roses with tea leaves, as tea contains a large amount of tannic acid, which can affect the efficacy of the roses. Moreover, women with heavy menstrual flow during their period should not drink it.