How to Reduce Stress Using Rose Hips

In traditional medicine, rose hips were used to reduce the effects of stress, ease pain and even fight cancer. Since rose hips are also an excellent source of vitamin C, they were used during World War II to protect British sailors from scurvy. While the jury is still out on how well rose hips counteract cancer, they are frequently incorporated into aromatherapy sessions and soothing herbal teas to help people combat stress. Their pleasant aroma and sweet, natural taste help ease the mind and relax the body.

Things You'll Need

• Rose hip tea

Instructions

1. Brew a pot of rose hip tea. You can buy this tea at a health foods store or make it yourself by steeping fresh or dried rose hips for 20 minutes, then straining out the rose hips before consuming the brew.

2. Pour a cup of rose hip tea. Make sure that it is hot and steaming so that you can smell its fresh, sweet fragrance. Also, the heat prevents you from chugging the tea, which defeats the purpose of this stress-relieving ritual.

3. 

   Take a deep breath of the steam from your cup. The warm scent will sooth your body and open your airways.

4. Sip your tea slowly. Do not hurry this cup of tea. You should take at least 10 minutes to enjoy it. Try not to think about all of the things that may be stressing you out, but instead envision a pleasant summer rose garden or other relaxing environment.