Description

The leaves and flowers of Cistus are rich in resins and volatile oils, and contain a high concentration of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that neutralize free radicals.

Records of historic use of aromatic Cistus plant products go back as far as 2500 years.

Rockrose has garned renewed attention in contemporary scientific studies for it’s antiviral abilities, such as a study conducted by Professor Dr. Ruth Brack-Werner at the Institute of Virology (Viro) of Helmholtz Zentrum München, which showed extracts of Cistus to be effective against HIV , Ebola and Marburg viruses.

The compounds in Cistus bind themselves selectively on the virus particles and so prevent infection by blocking the viruses from docking to the body’s cells.

Professor Dr. Oliver Planz from Friedrich Löffler Institute (University of Tübingen) has conducted several studies which proved effectiveness of rock rose extract as an antiviral for other viruses, such as influenza.

Cistus herb can be used to prepare a tea, or to make an alcohol extract, called tincture.

The traditional tea method is to gently simmer 1/2 – 1 teaspoon of the herb in water, on low heat, for about 5 minutes.

The quick method is to pour approximately 250 ml boiling water over 1/2 – 1 teaspoon of herb and let steep for 3- 5 minutes.

The aromatic tasting tea can be enjoyed with honey and / or lemon.