The rose, hailed as the queen of flowers, also known as “Bloom of the Month,” was ranked as one of China’s top ten famous flowers in May 1985. So what are the flower language and symbolism of roses? Let’s explore the meanings and symbolism of roses together.
What is the flower language of roses? What is the symbolism of roses?
An analysis of the beautiful legend of roses:
Long ago, beneath the mountains of Shen Nong, there was a noble family with a daughter named Yu Lan. At the tender age of eighteen, gentle and serene, many noblemen and princes came seeking her hand in marriage, but Yu Lan declined them all. It was because of her elderly mother, who suffered from a chronic cough and bloody sputum, despite numerous attempts at treatment, all in vain. So, Yu Lan, with the burden of her parents on her shoulders, posted a notice seeking a cure: “Whoever can heal my mother’s illness, I shall wed.” A young man named Chang Chun answered the call. After Yu Lan’s mother took his medicine, she miraculously recovered. True to her word, Yu Lan married Chang Chun, sealing the bond between Qin and Jin. On the bridal night, amidst the flickering candles, Yulan inquired about the efficacy of a particular remedy. Changchun replied, “The rose, my dear, the rose. A remedy for coughs and a tonic for the ailing. It’s an ancestral secret: a stew of rose petals and rock sugar, a divine elixir for coughs and bleeding, tailored for women’s maladies.” Yulan nodded, etching the wisdom into her memory.
The language of the rose speaks of pure love, fervor, or virtue. A white rose symbolizes reverence and nobility. In Japan, white roses signify paternal love, often used for Father’s Day. Pink roses denote first love, while black ones express individuality and creativity. Orange roses exude youthful vigor and beauty, while yellow roses signify apology (though in French culture, they may connote jealousy or infidelity). Green and white roses symbolize innocence, frugality, or a childlike heart. Bicolored roses suggest conflict or diverse interests, while tricolored roses represent erudition, depth of emotion, and passion. Blue-purple roses evoke rarity and preciousness.
Regarding the medicinal properties of roses, they are valued for their aromatic essence. The roots, leaves, and flowers all hold medicinal value, possessing properties that invigorate blood circulation, reduce swelling, and alleviate inflammation and toxicity. Moreover, they serve as a potent remedy for women’s health. In traditional Chinese medicine, roses are considered sweet in taste and warm in nature, exerting effects on the liver meridian to invigorate blood circulation, regulate menstruation, and reduce swelling and toxicity. Due to their notable ability to dispel stasis, promote circulation, and alleviate pain, roses are frequently employed in treating menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea, excessive menstruation, and leukorrhea. For excessive menstruation or excessive leukorrhea, a decoction of 15g of rose petals (or roots) can be brewed and consumed, or stewed with pork for consumption. A blend of 10 grams of rose petals and 12 grams of jujubes, simmered together and sweetened with honey to taste, yields a fragrant and delightful concoction, reminiscent more of ambrosia than medicine. Remarkably efficacious against menstrual heat, this elixir is a soothing balm to the body and spirit alike. Additionally, women often indulge in the infusion of rose petals as a tea, either on its own or as an enhancement to other herbal brews, fostering not only blood circulation but also enhancing one’s visage, preserving the essence of youth. For further exploration: What is the floral language of immortelle? The symbolism of immortelle.
