Heaven’s essence

There is evidence to suggest that the rose family is ancient, with some rose fossils having been found in America which are 30 million years old. The most famous of all roses, damask rose, is a natural hybrid of Rosa gallica and Rosa moschata with a genetic link to Rosa fedtschenkoana and has been referred to throughout history, due to its heavenly fragrance and stunning double-flowered heads. From Syrian poet Nizar Qabbani, “I come to you … from the tales of the ­Damascene rose, that depicts the history of all fragrance”, to Shakespeare referencing his favourite flower in Twelfth Night, as well as in Sonnet 130 (“I have seen roses damask’d, red and white”) the damask rose is loved by many. The origin of damask rose is the Middle East with some evidence indicating that the origin of rose water is Iran (late 7th century), but the origin of its fragrant oil and extracts is Greece. It is also believe that crusader ­Robert de Brie may have brought the flower to Europe from Syria in the 12th century.

Aside from being used in the perfume industry, Damask rose oil, or the “attar of roses”, has commonly been used to flavour food and produce rose water. In ancient medicine damask rose was used to, treat abdominal and chest pain, menstrual bleeding and digestive issues; strengthen the heart; and reduce inflammation, especially of the neck. North American Indian tribes used a decoction of the root as a cough remedy for children. Recent research of damask rose essential oil and extracts has highlighted its anti­oxidant, antibacterial and anti­microbial activities, in addition to the anti-diabetic effects.

Our organic damask rose buds are handpicked 900m above sea level from around the village of Platres, in the Troodos mountains of Cyprus (co-sourced by our friends at Cyherbia Botanical Park). Compared to standard damask rose, our damask rose buds are more delicate, but syrupy in the cup due to altitude, fertile terra rossa soil, purer growing conditions and the fact we do not use any rose oils or essences to enhance the flavour.

Damask rose buds may be drunk anytime during the day including after a meal to aid digestion, or just before bedtime to relax.

Choose from the following options*:

• Nazani Tea Caddy (50g) makes approx. 75 cups – £19.95
• Caddy Refill Pouch (50g) makes approx. 75 cups – £16.95

Catering pouches are also available**:

• Small Catering Pouch (250g) makes approx. 125 servings – POA
• Medium Catering Pouch (500g) makes approx. 250 servings – POA
• Large Catering Pouch (500g) makes approx. 500 servings – POA

*Estimations are based on drinking the traditional Cypriot way, where one portion will give you at least two cups (up to 3 infusions are possible) – just refill with 100°C water.

**Based on servings.

Deliveries outside the UK are available on request, please contact us with your delivery address and order, as we will be able to arrange international delivery via standard postal service or courier.

Please note the pouches are not airtight, and therefore once opened, your tisane should be transferred to an airtight caddy or storage jar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odours. We do not recommend glass, plastic and paper containers. Any noted health benefits of our herbal infusions are from traditional medicine and should not be used to prevent or cure any disease.

Consult a GP if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have any other health concerns.