Rose day: More than just a symbol of love, offers health benefits

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Valentine's Week has begun with Rose Day. Roses are not only a symbol of love, but they also offer immense health benefits. In Ayurveda, roses are considered to have a cooling effect, reducing body heat and providing relief from many physical and mental problems.

Gulkand, especially made from rose petals, is effective in relieving stomach problems and stress. Rose petals and gulkand are excellent for the digestive system. They have laxative properties, which easily relieve constipation. Gulkand calms the increased heat in the stomach, or gastric fire, and provides relief from acidity and ulcer pain. Eating gulkand regularly balances the bile dosha.

Not only this, problems like nosebleeds, heartburn, fatigue, and stomach heat that often occur during summer are also reduced. Constipation, acidity, and heartburn have become common in today's hectic life. Consuming one or two teaspoons of gulkand daily can prove to be very beneficial.

Roses also work wonders for skin care. Grinding local rose petals, adding a pinch of raw turmeric and a little milk can make a face pack. Applying this to the face reduces blemishes, acne, and allergies, while also brightening the face. Rose oil is also useful for severe headaches like migraines. Inhaling steam by adding 4-5 drops of rose oil to hot water can provide pain relief and reduce stress.

The sattvic properties of roses calm the mind. It helps with issues like anxiety, stress, and insomnia. In Ayurveda, roses are considered nourishing for both the heart and mind.

Gulkand is especially beneficial for women. It reduces menstrual irregularities, excessive bleeding, and bile-related problems. It also soothes stomach irritation and heat in pregnant women. Gulkand is also effective in healing mouth ulcers.