by Melissa Chichester
Few scents are as unabashedly alluring as rose. Let’s explore the fragrance that romantic poetry has been written about for centuries.
Native to Earth’s Northern Hemisphere, there are over 100 species of wild roses. Fossil evidence suggests that rose species existed in North America around 35 million years ago, but roses in Asia thrived as far back as 70 million years. In Greek mythology, when Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, saw Adonis dying, she began to cry. Her tears mixed with his blood made roses bloom, and the symbol of eternal love was born. Cleopatra is said to have had her home filled with rose petals so that Marc Antony would remember her every time he smelled them (and it worked!).
Many writers have tried to capture the strong sensuality of roses, but perhaps Shakespeare said it best: “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” We can’t escape the unmistakably sweet, earthy scent of this powerful floral.
Rose blends well with complimentary florals like geranium and lavender, citrus aromas like orange and bergamot, and even tree-based oils like cedarwood.
Mix all ingredients together until it forms a paste. Massage into dry areas, especially the elbows and knees. Rinse with warm water.
Add oils to spray bottle, and fill to the top with distilled water. Shake and spritz onto pillow (10 inches away so it isn’t damp) before bed for relaxation. Shake before using again.
In a small bowl, mix all ingredients until the oils are blended. Smooth over arms and legs for a luxurious moisturizing experience. Store the remaining lotion in an airtight container.
Combine all ingredients in your favorite diffuser and enjoy a peaceful, light floral scent.
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl and massage into the back and shoulders as desired.
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Massage onto the face, taking care to avoid the eye area. Let dry for 20 minutes, and rinse with warm water. Repeat once or twice weekly for best results.
In a glass jar, mix all ingredients. When you’re ready to take a bath, give the jar a gentle shake to make sure everything is mixed (too much shaking results in bubbles). Pour 1/8 cup under running water, and store the rest in the jar until the next use.
Combine all ingredients in your favorite diffuser to fill your home with a delightfully earthy, sweet scent.
Mix all ingredients and spread over thirsty skin for extra moisture.
Be prepared: you WILL be asked what you’re wearing! Mix all ingredients in a small glass jar and dab on pulse points. Store in an airtight container for later use.
Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle. Hold the bottle about 10 inches away from the hair, and spritz onto damp or dry hair. Gently shake to mix before the next use, as the ingredients may separate.
