The Rose: From the Legend to the Vine

History
Roses have a long history, dating back to fossil evidence over 35 million years ago! From China to the Middle East to Mexico, roses have been cultivated and used in everything from beauty preparations, religious ceremonies, growing vineyards, love rituals, celebrations and recipes throughout history. Let's take a closer look at the history, legend and health benefits of this beautiful, potent, popular flower.

Mythology
Greek mythology claims Aphrodite gave the rose its name. Chloris, the goddess of flowers, created it. The myth goes, Chloris came upon the lifeless body of a beautiful nymph in the forest. Chloris found help from various other mythological gods and goddesses, culminating in the creation of the Rose. Aphrodite, the goddess of love, gave her beauty. Dionysus, the god of wine, added nectar to give her a sweet scent. The three Graces gave Chloris charm, brightness and joy. Then Zephyr, the god of the West Wind, blew away the clouds so that Apollo, the sun god, could shine and make the flower bloom. Thus, resulting in the rose...

Benefits
The Rose provides many health benefits when applied topically to the skin. Along with the deliciously distinctive scent, rose is a natural emollient that hydrates and tones the skin. Rose has a slight astringent effect on the skin and can help calm redness or broken capillaries below the surface. It is known in aromatherapy to be an aphrodisiac and to balance and calm the system and spirit. It is also thought to have antidepressant, antiseptic and sedative qualities. Rose oil is expensive; it takes an incredible amount of petals to make 1 oz or rose essential oil, so you will often find it cut with jojoba or another carrier oil. Only true rose oil contains the health benefits- synthetic perfumes or rose fragrance oil won't do a thing!

Roses & Wine
Rose is a natural fit in The Grapeseed Co. Organic Skin Care line. Roses are prevalent throughout the beautiful rolling hills in Santa Barbara's wine region. Wine makers grow roses around the vineyard for both aesthetic reasons and to protect the grapes. Roses are planted in between the vines to attract insects with their colors and sweet smell. The roses are the first to be attacked by bugs and work as a signal the winemaker to protect the vines.

You can find rose in the following Grapeseed Co. Organic Skincare products:
Rose & Grape Serum
Lavender & Rose Toner
Green Tea & Grapes Creme Cleanser
Chamomile & Grapefruit Moisturizer