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Dried Tea Rose – A Simple Drying Method
Instructions
Tips
- 1
Gather petals only from home-grown rose bushes or roses grown without the use of chemicals. Shop bouquet roses are treated with preservatives and fungicides that make them unsuitable for tea and potentially dangerous.
- 2
Dry tea rose only at a low temperature of 35–40 °C – this is the only way to preserve the maximum floral aroma and essential oils. A high temperature speeds up the process but completely destroys the characteristic smell.
- 3
The petals must dry to a characteristic crispness – this is the main sign that they are ready. When folded, a properly dried petal snaps rather than bends. Under-dried petals will go mouldy in storage.
- 4
Store the finished dried petals in glass jars with a tight screw-on lid in a dark, cool place – light and moisture destroy the aroma and colour. Homemade dried tea will keep its properties for up to a year.
FAQ
Can tea rose be dried in the sun? +
It can, but with this open method a significant part of the floral aroma and essential oils is lost due to direct exposure to ultraviolet light and wind. For open drying, spread the petals out in a thin layer in a well-ventilated, shaded spot (not in direct sunlight!) – in a gazebo, in an attic or on a balcony. Such drying takes 2–3 days in stable, dry weather. The best option is still an electric dehydrator with a closed chamber, or an oven at 40 °C with the door ajar. For small batches, drying on the bottom shelf of the fridge in an open container works – 4–5 days, but with all the aromas preserved.
How long do dried tea rose petals keep? +
With proper storage in a glass jar with a tight lid in a dark, dry place – up to 1 year without significant loss of aroma and beneficial properties. In transparent jars in the light the shelf life drops to 6 months – light destroys the essential oils. The optimal storage temperature is 15–20 °C (ordinary room conditions in a closed cupboard). Signs of spoilage: an off, musty smell, the appearance of mould, loss of the characteristic colour to a brownish shade. Discard such petals. It is best to renew your home supply every year – freshly gathered petals are always more fragrant.
How do you brew tea from dried rose petals correctly? +
Pour a glass of hot but not boiling water (the ideal temperature is 85–90 °C) over 1–2 teaspoons of dried petals – boiling water destroys the delicate floral aroma. Leave to infuse for 5–7 minutes in a teapot with the lid closed to preserve the essential oils. Strain through a small sieve and serve. You can add 1 teaspoon of natural honey to taste (once it has cooled to 40 °C, so as to keep the honey's beneficial properties) or a slice of lemon. Homemade rose tea is especially good with dried raspberries or leaves of fresh mint. Drink 1–2 cups a day.
What are the beneficial properties of dried tea rose? +
Dried tea rose is a natural product with a rich composition. It contains vitamins C, A and the B group, minerals (potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron), antioxidants and essential oils. Tea made from the petals has a calming effect on the nervous system, helps with stress and insomnia, is good for the skin (it contains natural collagen-forming substances) and improves digestion. It also relieves inflammation and helps with colds thanks to its vitamin C. For the bath you can add a handful of dried petals – the result is a fragrant spa treatment at home. Precautions: during pregnancy and if you are allergic to roses, consult a doctor.
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