Cretan Rockrose
Cretan Rockrose

It boasts an exquisite aroma and is also used for medicinal purposes.

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Cretan Rockrose (Cistus creticus) is a small, bushy, evergreen shrub.

A perennial aromatic shrub, it bears pink or, less commonly, white flowers, blooming from March to June.

It boasts an exquisite aroma and is also used for medicinal purposes.

The stem and leaves of the plant contain a balsamic resin. According to the Region of Crete, this resin is secreted by the glandular hairs of the leaves and exhibits potent antimicrobial and primarily antileukemic properties. The resin also provides positive effects against insomnia, toothache, and tetanus. Additionally, a decoction made from the fruits of the plant is used to alleviate diarrhoea, and its leaves are utilised for brewing an aromatic tea.

Photos 1-2: Trikali, M. / Natural History Museum of Crete – University of Crete

Photo 3: Trichas,A. / Natural History Museum of Crete – University of Crete