With roses on many peoples' minds this week, we thought we would delve into the beautiful bloom…

There are generally two species of roses used in skincare: rosa damascena and rosa centifola. Rosa damascena has a deep, potent scent; rosa centifola has a lighter, clean and sweet scent. Both are valued for their pure essential oils, derived from the rose flowers. Tens of thousands of rose blossoms need to be picked as they are unfolding in the early hours of dawn, in order to yield just one ounce of rose essential oil. This is one of the reasons for which makes rose oil is one of the most expensive essential oils. However, the potency is so concentrated that only a few drops are necessary to reap the benefits of such a beautiful bloom. 

Containing a complex mix of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, rosa damascena essential oil, which Alexandra uses in a number of products and bespoke blends, has excellent emollient properties for moisturising dry skin and boasts aromatherapy properties that calm and soothe, even helping with anxiety and depression. 

Both rose flower water and rose essential oil reduce inflammation and calm broken capillaries or thread veins. Both help dry, mature skin and wrinkles and are wonderful for eczema prone skin. On top of that, there are antiviral, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent and depurative benefits as well. 

Rich in antibacterial properties, the hydrosols in rose flower water make it a perfect ingredient for a balancing face mist like Floral Rain. Ideal to prepare the skin for face oil and moisturiser, Floral Rain is lovely as a hydrating mist over make-up, or simply to revive and quench naked skin throughout the day. 

Rose oil is a key player in the synergetic blend of active essential oils that make our Forever Young face oil so powerful. A cocktail of antioxidants, omega 3 fatty acids and natural vitamins fights free radicals to give a healthy glow, stimulating the detoxification and regeneration of the skin. Suitable for all skin types, it is particularly beneficial for tired, unbalanced skin, or skin battling toxic environments. 

For those seeking the therapeutic scent of the rose, our 'Flowers of Iberia' candle is perfect for those on the move looking for a rooting moment of calm. Using nothing but organic ingredients, this candle blends the soothingly seductive scents of wild roses, rose geranium and jasmine, with a heady top note from the wax of wild violets on a base of 100% natural soy wax. 

“Lying in a field of dry grasses scattered with wild fragrant flowers is where I was at my happiest as a child.  I could feel the warmth of the earth beneath me and breathe in that heat mixed with the dryness of the grasses.” Alexandra

Now for the mythical part…

Many romantic legends exist about the rose. It is generally agreed that Valentine’s Day flowers date back to the reign of King Charles II of Sweden in the 17^th Century, when the king was taught the language of flowers during a trip to Persia. The idea of being able to communicate using flowers without uttering any words at all gained intrigue across Europe, with lists of flowers and their meanings widely distributed.

In Greek and Roman mythology, the creation of the rose is affiliated with Aphrodite, the goddess of love but it is attributed to Flora, the goddess of spring and flowers (also known as Chloris in Greek mythology, FYI). The story goes that when one of Flora’s nymphs died, Flora called upon the gods to change her into a beautiful flower. Apollo gave her life; Bacchus gave her nectar; Vertumnus, a beautiful perfume; Pomona, a fruit; and Flora, a crown"of petals. To this, Aphrodite added beauty and Dionysus a nectar of intoxicating aroma. The three Graces further bestowed upon the blossom the gifts of charm, joy, and splendour. All agreed it was the most spectacular of flowers and subsequently referred to it as “The Queen of Flowers.” Aphrodite named the flower Rose, dedicating it to her son, Eros, the god of love. 

Other-worldly beauty, naturally.

Shop the blog:

lowers of Iberia’organic candle - Rosa damascena (rose) flower oil

Floral Rain face mist – Rosa damascena (rose) flower water

Forever Young face oil - Rosa damascena (rose) flower oil