The name Helianthemum derives from the Greek helios (sun) and antiunion (flower), since the flowers only come out when the sun shines. The American or Canadian rock rose, H. canadense, grows in dry, sandy soils and is an old remedy for scrofulous symptoms, gangrene and skin problems. The English or European rock rose, H. nummularium, grows wild on chalky, sandy or gravelly soil in hilly pastures.
Herbal remedy
As an astringent, H. canadense can be used to treat diarrhoea and dysentery, when taken in small amounts (large amounts may prove emetic). As a gargle, rock rose will help to relieve sore mouths and throats and mouth ulcers. It can be used as an eyewash for inflammatory eye problems and as a skin lotion for skin problems, such as acne, eczema, varicose veins and ulcers, insect bites and stings.
Rock rose is not commonly used today, but in the past it was used often in the treatment of secondary syphilis, and scrofula. It was also prescribed for swollen glands and sore throats in scarlatina. Its old name was scrofula plant.
Homeopathic remedy
Cistus or Helianthemum canadense is prepared from a tincture of the whole plant and is used for diarrhoea and dysentery, for shingles and its accompanying painful blisters on the skin and pain along the nerve pathway. It is also used for swollen glands and scrofulous conditions, as well as itching of the skin and sore throats including those associated with scarlet fever. A sensitivity to cold air runs through the symptom picture which is suggested by the peculiar habit of the plant forming ice crystals around its root in winter. A Cistus or Helianthemum person tends to be anxious and trembles when ill with a fever. Their symptoms are aggravated by all kinds of mental excitement.
The flower essence Rock rose (H. nummularium) is a remedy of emergency, where there is terror, panic or extreme fright, which spreads from the person affected to those around them. It may be the terror of a child after a nightmare, or of someone involved in or witnessing an accident. It is one of the components of Dr Bach’s Rescue Remedy, and can be used for acute fear or terror in any situation when feeling unable to cope. Rock rose frees one from the almost paralysed state of panic, and can help to turn fear for oneself into courage, even to the point of forgetting oneself in times of emergency for the sake of others. It is the remedy of heroes, where people can grow beyond their natural capabilities.