Rose of Jericho: Health Benefits, Traditional Uses, and Safety Guide

The Rose of Jericho, often called the “resurrection plant,” is a fascinating botanical specimen that has captured human imagination for centuries. This remarkable herb possesses the unique ability to survive extreme drought conditions, appearing to die completely before springing back to life when exposed to water.

Throughout history, cultures across the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe have incorporated this plant into traditional medicine and spiritual practices. Today, interest in Rose of Jericho continues to grow as people seek natural alternatives for various health concerns, though scientific research on its effectiveness remains limited.

This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about Rose of Jericho, from its botanical characteristics and traditional applications to current scientific understanding and important safety information.

Understanding the Rose of Jericho Plant

The true Rose of Jericho (Anastatica hierochuntica) is a small flowering plant native to desert regions of North Africa and the Middle East. Growing up to 12 inches tall, this remarkable plant has developed extraordinary survival mechanisms that allow it to thrive in some of the world’s harshest environments.

When water becomes scarce, the plant curls into a tight, dried ball—a state that can last for years. Its branches fold inward, creating a protective cage around its seeds and reproductive structures. This dormant form can be blown across the desert like a tumbleweed, dispersing seeds along the way. When rain arrives or the plant encounters moisture, it unfurls within hours, turning from brown to green as it rehydrates.

This dramatic transformation has earned the plant numerous names across different cultures, including:

• Resurrection flower
• Resurrection plant
• Kaff Maryam (Mary’s hand in Arabic)
• Hand of Fatima
• Maryam’s flower
• Jericho rose

It’s important to note that another plant, Selaginella lepidophylla, native to the Chihuahuan Desert in Mexico and the southwestern United States, is often sold as “Rose of Jericho.” This plant, sometimes called the “false” Rose of Jericho, exhibits similar resurrection properties but is botanically distinct and may have different properties.

Active Compounds and Nutritional Profile

Rose of Jericho contains various bioactive compounds that contribute to its traditional medicinal uses. Research has identified several important plant compounds in the herb:

Flavonoids: These powerful antioxidants include quercetin, kaempferol, and luteolin. Flavonoids are known for their anti-inflammatory and disease-fighting properties throughout the plant kingdom.

Phenolic acids: Chlorogenic acid is particularly abundant in Rose of Jericho. This compound has been studied for its potential effects on blood sugar regulation and cardiovascular health.

Alkaloids: Some studies suggest the presence of various alkaloids, though their concentrations and specific effects require further investigation.

Essential oils: The plant contains volatile compounds that contribute to its aromatic properties and may have antimicrobial effects.

However, it’s crucial to understand that while these individual compounds have demonstrated health benefits in scientific studies, researchers have not established whether Rose of Jericho contains sufficient quantities to produce therapeutic effects in humans. The concentration of active ingredients can vary significantly based on growing conditions, harvest time, and preparation methods.

Potential Health Benefits

Traditional medicine systems have attributed numerous health benefits to Rose of Jericho, though modern scientific validation remains limited. Here’s what we know about its potential applications:

Blood Sugar Management

Some traditional practitioners recommend Rose of Jericho for managing blood sugar levels. The chlorogenic acid present in the plant has shown promise in laboratory studies for improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. However, there are no clinical trials specifically examining Rose of Jericho’s effects on diabetes or blood sugar control in humans.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The flavonoids found in Rose of Jericho possess anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory settings. Traditional use includes applying the plant for arthritis pain and inflammatory conditions. While the individual compounds show promise, research has not confirmed whether consuming Rose of Jericho tea or extracts delivers enough of these compounds to reduce inflammation effectively.

Respiratory Support

In traditional medicine, practitioners have used Rose of Jericho to address respiratory conditions including asthma, bronchitis, and common cold symptoms. The proposed mechanism involves the plant’s potential expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, no scientific studies have validated these traditional uses.

Menstrual Support

Women have traditionally used Rose of Jericho to ease menstrual cramps and regulate menstrual cycles. As an emmenagogue—a substance that stimulates blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus—it has been part of women’s herbal medicine for generations. Despite widespread traditional use, scientific research has not examined its effectiveness or safety for menstrual issues.

Antioxidant Activity

The plant’s high antioxidant content has led to claims about anti-aging benefits, particularly for skin health. Some skincare enthusiasts incorporate Rose of Jericho into facial treatments and topical applications. However, there is currently no scientific research supporting its use in skincare or demonstrating superior antioxidant benefits compared to other plant-based ingredients.

Cardiovascular Health

Some proponents suggest that Rose of Jericho may support cardiovascular health by helping to manage blood pressure. This claim relates to the presence of compounds like quercetin and chlorogenic acid, which have shown cardiovascular benefits in isolated studies. Nevertheless, no research has specifically examined Rose of Jericho’s effects on heart health or blood pressure in humans.

Traditional and Spiritual Applications

Beyond medicinal uses, Rose of Jericho holds deep spiritual significance across multiple cultures and religious traditions. Its resurrection ability has made it a powerful symbol of renewal, transformation, and hope.

Religious Significance

In Christianity, legend holds that the plant first bloomed on the night of Jesus’s birth and closed when the family fled to Egypt, reopening upon their return. Many Christians keep the plant in their homes as a blessing and symbol of resurrection.

In Islamic tradition, the plant is associated with the Virgin Mary (Maryam) and is believed to have blessed properties. Some Muslims use water from the plant for spiritual cleansing and protection.

Practitioners of Hoodoo, Santeria, and other African diaspora spiritual traditions incorporate Rose of Jericho into rituals for prosperity, protection, and removing negative energy.

Spiritual Practices

Common spiritual uses include:

• Creating blessed or holy water by placing the plant in water and using the infused liquid for spiritual cleansing
• Keeping the plant in homes or businesses to attract prosperity and good fortune
• Using it in protection rituals to ward off negative energy
• Incorporating it into meditation practices as a symbol of personal transformation
• Placing it on altars during prayer or spiritual work

How to Use Rose of Jericho

Rose of Jericho is available in several forms, though dried whole plants are most common. Here’s how to use it:

As a Decorative Plant

Many people keep Rose of Jericho simply to observe its remarkable resurrection ability:

1. Place the dried plant in a shallow dish
2. Add enough water to cover the roots or base
3. Within 4-8 hours, the plant will begin to unfurl and turn green
4. Change the water every few days to prevent mold
5. After a week or two, remove the water and allow the plant to dry for at least two weeks before repeating

Preparing Rose of Jericho Tea

To make tea from Rose of Jericho:

1. Use approximately 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves or flowers per cup of water
2. Bring water to a boil, then remove from heat
3. Add the plant material and cover
4. Steep for 5-10 minutes
5. Strain and drink

Start with smaller amounts to assess tolerance, as there is limited safety data available. Some people prefer to use water from rehydrating the whole plant rather than preparing traditional tea.

Topical Applications

While some people apply Rose of Jericho water or extracts to their skin, there is no standardized approach. If you choose to experiment with topical use:

• Always patch test on a small area first
• Avoid applying to broken skin or open wounds
• Discontinue use if irritation occurs
• Do not use around the eyes

Dosage Considerations

No official dosage guidelines exist for Rose of Jericho due to lack of clinical research. Traditional use varies widely depending on the application and cultural practice. When trying any herbal supplement for the first time, start with minimal amounts and increase gradually only if no adverse effects occur.

Safety Considerations and Precautions

While Rose of Jericho has a long history of traditional use, scientific research on its safety profile is extremely limited. Consider the following precautions:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

This is the most important safety concern. Rose of Jericho has traditionally been used to induce labor and stimulate uterine contractions. For this reason:

• Pregnant women should avoid Rose of Jericho entirely unless under direct medical supervision
• If you have used it during pregnancy, inform your healthcare provider before labor and delivery
• There is insufficient safety data for use during breastfeeding

A study of Malaysian women found that a significant percentage used herbal preparations including Rose of Jericho during pregnancy, particularly to facilitate labor. However, the safety and effectiveness of this practice have not been established through rigorous scientific study.

Medical Conditions

If you have any of the following conditions, consult a healthcare provider before using Rose of Jericho:

• Diabetes: The plant may affect blood sugar levels, potentially interacting with diabetes management
• Blood pressure disorders: Both high and low blood pressure could theoretically be affected
• Hormonal conditions: Due to its traditional use as an emmenagogue, it may influence hormonal balance
• Bleeding disorders: As it may promote blood flow, use caution if you have bleeding issues

Medication Interactions

No studies have examined potential drug interactions with Rose of Jericho. However, theoretical interactions could occur with:

• Blood sugar lowering medications
• Blood pressure medications
• Anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs
• Hormonal medications

Always inform your healthcare providers about all herbs and supplements you use, especially before any surgical procedures.

Quality and Identification Concerns

When purchasing Rose of Jericho:

• Verify you’re getting true Rose of Jericho (Anastatica hierochuntica) rather than the false variety (Selaginella lepidophylla)
• Purchase from reputable suppliers who can verify the plant’s origin
• Be aware that the supplement industry is not strictly regulated, and product quality can vary
• Store dried plants in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

Potential Side Effects

Due to limited research, the full side effect profile is unknown. However, potential concerns based on traditional use and plant compounds include:

• Digestive upset
• Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
• Uterine stimulation
• Changes in blood sugar or blood pressure

Discontinue use and seek medical attention if you experience any concerning symptoms.

The Current State of Research

It’s important to understand the gap between traditional use and scientific validation. While Rose of Jericho has been used for centuries in various healing traditions, modern scientific research on the plant remains sparse.

Most available studies focus on:

• Identifying chemical compounds present in the plant
• Testing isolated compounds in laboratory settings
• Documenting traditional use patterns in various cultures
• Examining the plant’s remarkable desiccation tolerance from a botanical perspective

What’s missing from current research:

• Clinical trials in humans examining specific health outcomes
• Safety studies establishing appropriate dosages and identifying contraindications
• Pharmacokinetic studies showing how the body absorbs and processes Rose of Jericho compounds
• Comparative effectiveness research against standard treatments
• Long-term safety data

The presence of beneficial compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids is promising, but it doesn’t automatically translate to therapeutic benefits when the whole plant is consumed. Scientists need much more research to determine whether Rose of Jericho deserves a place in evidence-based medicine.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re interested in Rose of Jericho for specific health concerns, consider these evidence-based alternatives:

For blood sugar management: Cinnamon, fenugreek, and bitter melon have more robust research supporting their use alongside conventional diabetes care.

For inflammation: Turmeric (curcumin), ginger, and omega-3 fatty acids have substantial scientific backing for anti-inflammatory effects.

For menstrual discomfort: Magnesium, vitamin B6, and heat therapy have evidence supporting their effectiveness for menstrual cramps.

For antioxidant benefits: Green tea, berries, and dark chocolate are well-studied sources of beneficial antioxidants.

Remember that even well-researched natural remedies should complement, not replace, medical care. Always consult healthcare professionals before using herbs or supplements to address health conditions.

The Bottom Line

Rose of Jericho is a remarkable plant with a rich history spanning medicinal, cultural, and spiritual traditions. Its ability to resurrect from apparent death has made it a powerful symbol across many cultures, representing renewal, hope, and transformation.

While traditional medicine attributes numerous health benefits to this ancient herb—including support for diabetes, inflammation, respiratory issues, and menstrual concerns—modern scientific research has not yet validated these uses. The plant contains potentially beneficial compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids, but we don’t know whether consuming Rose of Jericho provides these substances in therapeutic amounts.

For those interested in Rose of Jericho primarily for its spiritual significance or as a fascinating botanical curiosity, it can be a meaningful addition to your home. However, those seeking it as a health remedy should understand that scientific evidence is currently insufficient to support medical claims.

Most importantly, pregnant women should avoid Rose of Jericho due to its traditional use as a labor inducer and lack of safety data. Anyone with medical conditions or taking medications should consult healthcare providers before use.

As interest in traditional and plant-based medicine continues to grow, hopefully, researchers will conduct more rigorous studies on Rose of Jericho to determine whether this resurrection plant can truly deliver on its purported health benefits or whether its value remains primarily symbolic and cultural.

If you choose to experiment with Rose of Jericho, purchase from reputable sources, start with small amounts, and always prioritize evidence-based medical care for any serious health concerns.

Sources:

• National Center for Biotechnology Information – PubMed Central
• PubMed – National Library of Medicine
• ScienceDirect – Scientific Research Database
• National Institutes of Health
• World Health Organization Publications