It is February, the magical month of love. Nothing symbolizes love more the mystical rose.  It is said that the rose was created by the Greek Goddess of flowers, Chloris , after one of her beautiful nymphs died.  She then called upon the powers of Aphrodite who gave her nymph beauty; Dionysus gave her nectar for a sweet scent and the three Graces gave her charm, brightness and joy.  Zephyr then made the wind blow away the clouds and Apollo shined the sun upon her to help her bloom.  This was the wondrous birth of the Rose that then took on the thorn to become the Queen of the flowers.  The rose was also sacred to the Egyptian Goddess, Isis.  Her priestesses bathed in rose petals before they entered Her temple for worship.

Love is the eternal language of flowers and the rose speaks this truth like no other.  She can capture your heart and inspire your spirit.  Her fragrance can intoxicate and her thorns can sting.  The rose is the perfect expression of passion and danger.  We all have fallen for her beauty; she captures are senses and inspires are souls.  

The rose has many magical and medical uses as well.  Rosebud tea is thought to help you see who your true love will be.  To make love spells stronger, it is recommended that you strewn roses petals around the outline of your magic circle.  Rosehip oil is used in charms for falling in love and can also help with healing from a broken heart. On the medical side, Rosebud tea can be used to improve digestion, nourish the skin, remove blood stagnation and can also help regulate physical chi.  Many women have used rose oil to help manage their stress levels and calm their nerves.  The Queen of flowers has many uses and she is just waiting for you to call upon her magical powers.  Explore her oils, teas and perfumes; embrace her ability to help open your heart to love.  

How to make your own rose oil and rose water:

It very easy to make your own homemade rose oil and rose water.  Just follow these few simple and easy steps!

Rose oil-  You want to buy or pick fresh rose petals from your garden.  Next, cover the petals in oil.  It is fine to a high quality extra virgin olive oil,  if you prefer.  After this you’ll need to bruise the petals, this releases the essential oil.  You must then let them soak for at least 24 hours.   It is important to repeat the bruising and soaking process, at least 6-7 times. Remember to always add new oil and fresh petals each time.  This will make the oil nice and strong.  You can then add the oil to soaps, baths or other massage oils.

Rose Water- You’ll want to buy or pick fresh petals for your rose water.  Bring some water to a boil and pour over your petals in bowl.  Cover the bowl until it cools and then strain.  To start you may want a pint of water to a cup of petals.  You can always adjust the amount, to increase the strength and scent.  It is very important that if you are not going to use the water within a few days, to freeze for later use.  Rose water is used in skin toners, facial creams and for bath water.  Many Middle Eastern cultures use the water for cooking and teas. 

So, this Valentine’s Day explore the many magical powers and uses of the rose.  Send some to your lover, make a tea to find your true love or just enjoy her intoxicating essence.   You may even want to plant a rose bush in your garden; they are known to attract fairies that will protect your home.   It is time for love to enter your life and the rose is here to help.  May her fragrance guide you to your true love.  Happy Valentine’s Day!

Alixandra Peters is the second oldest daughter of the publisher’s of Kinetics Magazine. She has been formally trained as a naturalist and horticulturist. In her spare time, Alix enjoys being a freelance photojournalist.  She resides in Las Vegas, Nevada with her dog. Homer. and her three adorable cats - Skye, Jasmine and Chamile.