Sweetbriar

Sweetbriar, also called a rust-coloured dog rose, is a shrub in the rosacea family.  It is originally from Europe and widespread in its natural state across France except on the Mediterranean coast and Corsica. While sweetbriar rose prefers very sunny environments, it also develops in less exposed areas.  It is capable of growing in nutrient-poor soil, it resists frost and many diseases as well as urban pollution. Traditionally, certain parts of the sweetbriar rose bush were used medicinally.  Its petals are known to have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties; they are also used to regulate intestinal transit.  The buds, prepared in a mixture of water, alcohol and glycerin, are traditionally used to treat respiratory issues (asthma, chronic rhinitis…).  The herbal tea made from its leaves has a slightly laxative effect and can also be applied in a poultice to help stimulate healing.