Roses are well-known for their use as flowers, beauty products and perfumes, a less commonly known use for roses is as a better, smoother alternative to tobacco.
This post is going to take you through the pros and cons of smoking rose petals, and how you could go about smoking rose for yourself.
Different Ways to Consume Rose Petals?
Roll with it - a rose joint is a common occurrence for women in the canna space. Especially when mixed with other herbs such as mullein. This is the type of product known as herbal mixes or herbal tobacco.
Rose pre roll cone - These are often sold rolled with paper on the inside and if you find a brand without the paper, you will have a much smoother smoke with less consumed ingredients.
Infused rose paper - This type of product is normally a paper like material with added rose oil and finely milled (powder) rose petals. The flavour is quite strong and the smoke is similar to a blunt.
Rose blunt - This is often very similar to a rose pre roll cone, but on a larger scale and rolled differently to emulate a blunt.
Can you smoke dried rose petals?
While there are minimal studies done on the safety of smoking herbs and specifically rose, the main reason the common person wants to smoke rose is to add flavour to a rose joint, replace tobacco, or even to save money on that person’s cannabis usage.
Whatever the reason, rose vapor/smoke is relatively safe to consume orally. Rose petals are known to have the terpene geraniol. Geraniol which is found in many natural plants is known to have antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory properties, antimicrobial activities, pain relieving effects, potential anti-cancer properties, neuroprotective effects, and mood enhancing properties.
What are the pros of smoking rose?
There are various pros to smoking rose:
Calming:
The aroma of rose petals alone is often associated with relaxation and stress relief which is also why roses are often given as presents. It is assumed that inhaling the scent of roses may have a calming effect on the mind and body.
Respiratory Health:
Inhaling rose petals may have mild respiratory benefits due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties. However, smoking any substance can also irritate the respiratory system, so caution is advised and please refer to a health professional on any allergies and potential personal health risks.
Aromatherapy:
The aroma of rose petals is commonly used in aromatherapy to promote emotional well-being, reduce anxiety, and improve mood. Smoking rose petals could potentially provide similar aromatic benefits because the aroma will be tasted through the smoke.
Flavor Enhancement:
Some people enjoy the taste and aroma of rose petals when mixed with other herbs for smoking. It can add a unique flavor profile to herbal blends because of its terpene geraniol which we explained about prior in the section before. If you tend to find the aroma and flavor of rose petals pleasing, this terpene might be the best suited for you and your experience.
Antioxidant Properties:
Rose petals contain various antioxidants, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. However, smoking may degrade some of these beneficial compounds, but this has not been tested properly.
Cultural and Ritual Significance:
In some cultures, smoking herbs like rose petals may have traditional or ceremonial significance.
What are the cons of smoking rose?/Risks of smoking rose?
As with anything consumed via smoking, there are often risks associated. In this section, we explain the possible side effects of smoking rose petal joints.
Respiratory Irritation:
Smoking any substance, including rose petals, can irritate the respiratory system. Inhaling smoke may lead to coughing, throat irritation, and lung discomfort. Rose petals may produce additional irritants or compounds when burned, exacerbating these effects. Please refer to a good brand to buy rose petals from as many farmers in current day may use pesticides and chemicals to grow their flowers.
Potential Contaminants:
Rose petals purchased from non-certified sources may contain pesticides, herbicides, or other contaminants. Smoking contaminated rose petals could introduce harmful chemicals into your body.
Allergic Reactions:
Some individuals may be allergic to roses or certain compounds found in rose petals. Smoking rose petals could trigger allergic reactions, such as respiratory distress or skin irritation, in sensitive individuals.
Can you mix rose petals and cannabis?
Mixing rose petals with canna would create a unique flavor and aroma profile and is a very common herb to mix with. Some people may find the combination enjoyable, while others may not appreciate the taste. Not a recommendation, but food for thought is to find a cannabis strain that also contains the geraniol terpene such as amnesia haze, black cherry, or purple punch.
Overall, smoking rose petals is a personal choice and can come with similar benefits as buying roses too adorn in your home. For the common canna consumer, this is a great alternative to tobacco and can add to any sesh.