In this article, we will examine the top 13 benefits of rose essential oil for health. We will also discuss its beauty advantages. Various pharmacological properties have been attributed to rose essential oil. Roses are the most popular and widely used medicinal plants all over the world. Before using rose essential oil first read through all the precautions.
Rose essential oil has several names including rose otto, attar of rose, attar of roses or rose essence. It is the essential oil extracted from the petals of various types of rose. A rose is a woody perennial flowering plant. It belongs to the genus Rosa in the family Rosaceae. It is also the flower it bears. There are over three hundred species and tens of thousands of cultivars.
“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose, by any other name would smell as sweet.” –Shakespeare
Rose ottos are extracted through steam distillation. Rose absolutes are obtained through solvent extraction. The absolute (absolutes are like essential oils) is used more commonly in perfumery and aromatherapy.
The production of rose essential oil originated in Greater Iran. Rose essential oils are still perhaps the most widely used essential oils in perfumery. This is despite their high price. It is also despite the development of organic synthesis. This branch of chemical synthesis focuses on constructing organic compounds.
Rosa damascena (Damask rose, a hybrid) has several pharmacological properties. Production today is dominated by 3 producers who account for over 70% of the rose essential oil market share:
Bulgaria, sold as “Bulgarian Rose”.
Turkey, sold as “Turkish Rose”.
Saudi Arabia, sold as “Taif Rose”. It is also grown on a smaller scale in Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia, Croatia, and Cyprus. Other countries include Ethiopia, Georgia, Greece, Jordan, and Lebanon. It is also found in India, Iran, Iraq, Israel, and Moldova. North Macedonia, Oman, Serbia, Syria, and Tajikistan also grow it. Turkmenistan, Pakistan, Romania, Russia, and Ukraine have smaller-scale growths. Finally, it is cultivated in the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.
Rosa centifolia (the cabbage rose, a hybrid) which is more commonly grown in Morocco, Egypt and France.
The History of the Rose
Rose was called “the queen of flowers” by the Greek poet Sappho. Rose is derived from the Greek word rodon, meaning “red.” Compared to other essential oils, the history of rose essential oil use in ancient herbal practice is limited. It is not extensively documented.
Fossil records suggest the first appearance of roses was 35 million years ago. The plant has been used for centuries to enhance romance due to its sensual aroma. The French or Moroccan rose had a reputation in history for being aphrodisiac[1].
The Romans scattered rose petals during banquets. They also threw them in the paths of their victors. Wreaths of roses were found at weddings and funerals. Fresh petals were placed in wine and baths[2].
“The optimist sees the rose and not its thorns; the pessimist stares at the thorns, oblivious to the rose.”
–Kahlil Gibran
Phytochemistry of Rosa Damascena
Compositions of rose essential oil vary. The essential oil of R. damascena in Kashan region of Iran has 95 different components. The Rose international Standard Survey of 2003–2020 lists three major components. First is β–citronellol (20–34%), an effective mosquito repellent also found in citronella. Second is geraniol (15–22%), which is commonly used in perfumes and fruit flavorings. Lastly, there’s nonadecane (8–15%). Key rose components are: β–damascenone (0.01–1.85%), β–damascone (under 1%), other damascones (under 1%), beta–ionone (under 1%) and rose oxide (under 1%).
Beta–damascenone is considered as the marker for the quality of rose essential oil. This compound makes up less than 1% of rose essential oil. However, it constitutes more than 90% of the oil’s odor content. This happens because it has a low odor detection threshold. This threshold is the lowest concentration of an odor perceivable by the human sense of smell.
More minor rose components include: heneicosane, eicosane, docosane, tricosane, tetracosane, pentacosane, hexacosane, heptacosane, nonacosane, dodecane, tetradecane, pentadecane, hexadecane, heptadecane, octadecane. Citral is a strong antimicrobial necessary for vitamin A synthesis. It is also found in lemon myrtle and lemongrass. Carvone is an effective digestive aid also found in caraway and dill. Citronellyl acetate is responsible for the pleasant flavor and aroma of roses. Phenyl acetaldehyde is a sweet-smelling and aromatic compound also found in chocolate. Nerol is a sweet-smelling aromatic antibiotic compound also found in lemongrass and hops. Linalool, phenyl ethyl alcohol, farnesol is a natural pesticide also found in orange blossom, jasmine and ylang–ylang. α–pinene, β–pinene, α–terpinene, limonene, p–cymene, camphene, β–caryophyllene, neral, geranyl acetate, neryl acetate. Eugenol is also the powerhouse behind clove, the richest antioxidant in the world. Methyl eugenol is a local antiseptic and anesthetic also found in cinnamon and lemon balm. Benzaldehyde, benzyl alcohol, octane and tetradecanol.
Phytochemistry of Rosa Centifolia
Rosa centifolia does not have a rose essential oil because of the delicate nature of its petals. The Rosa centifolia absolute is composed of more than 50% phenylethyl alcohol. The remaining composition is similar to that of Rosa damascena.
Phytochemistry of Bulgarian Rose Essential Oil
Bulgarian rose essential oil is light-yellow in color with a tinge of green. It has the same consistency as almond oil, with a strong aroma and sharp balsamic taste. It has a well–balanced combination of liquid and solid components. Bulgarian rose essential oil generally differs from other rose essential oils in the quantitative content of its ingredients. It’s made up of about 283 components. These components are divided into two groups.
Odor carriers—eleoptene represent the liquid part of the oil. Of the many components of eleoptenecitronellol, geraniol, nerol and phenylethyl alcohol contribute to its rosy scent.
Odor fixatives—stearoptene, odorless and solid at room temperature, they fix the scent and give it longevity.
Bulgarian rose essential oil contains ethanol (up to 3%), linalool (1–3%), phenethyl alcohol (up to 3%), citronellol (24–35%), nerol (5–12%), geraniol (13–22%), geranyl acetate (up to 1.5%), eugenol (up to 2.5%), methyl eugenol (up to 2%) and farnesol (at least 1.4%); hydrocarbons—C17 heptadecane (1–2.5%), C19 saturated hydrocarbon nonadecane CH3 (CH2) 17CH3 (8–15%), C19 unsaturated hydrocarbon with one or more double carbon bonds nonadecene CH3 (CH2) 16CH = CH2 2–5%), C21 heneicosan (3–5.5%) and C23 tricosan (0.5–1.5%).
[1] Brooks, Lisa. (2017). The Herbal Apothecary. Louis Weber Publications International.
[2] Lawless, Julia. (1998). Aromatherapy and the Mind. Hammersmith, London: Thorsons.
Rose Essential Oil Aroma and Characteristics
The aroma of rose essential oil is rich, sweet–floral and earthy. It is pale yellow or olive yellow in color. Unadulterated rose essential oil is very viscous and solidifies when it cools. It can be liquefied by holding the bottle in the warmth of the hand for a few minutes before use.
Rose Essential Oil Production
The production process is labor–intensive. Additionally, the rose blooms have a low content of oil. Therefore, rose essential oil has a high price. The flowers are harvested by hand in the morning before sunrise and the material is distilled the same day.
There are three main methods of extracting the oil from the plant material:
Steam distillation, which produces an essential oil called rose otto or attar of roses.
Solvent extraction, which results in an absolute called rose absolute.
Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction, yielding a “concrete” that may be marketed as a concrete, absolute or CO2 extract.
Steam Distillation
This method is considered the most traditional and produces a high–quality oil. In the first part of the two–stage process, large stills—traditionally of copper—are filled with rose petals and water. The still is fired for 60–105 minutes. The vaporized water and rose essential oil exit the still, condense and are then collected in a flask. This distillation yields a very concentrated oil, which makes up about 20% of the final product. The hydrosol (colloidal suspensions of essential oils and water) portion of the distillate is known as rosewater. This inexpensive byproduct is used widely as a food flavoring as well as in skin care.
In the second part of the process, the water that condenses with the oil goes through cohobation. This is the process of repeated distillation. During cohobation, the liquid is repeatedly separated from the solids left at the bottom of the vessel. Cohobation is necessary to obtain water–soluble phenethyl alcohol. This alcohol is the main component of the aroma. It makes up the bulk, 80%, of the oil.
The oils from the two parts of the steam distillation process are combined and make the final rose attar. Rose attar is mobile at room temperature and is clear to light yellow in color. It will form white crystals at room temperature which disappear when the oil is gently warmed. It will tend to become more viscous at lower temperatures due to the crystallization of some of its components.
The heat required for distillation causes the compounds extracted from the rose to denature. Their original structure breaks down chemically. As such, rose attar does not smell very similar to “fresh” roses. The essence has a very strong odor but is pleasant when diluted and used for perfume.
Significant Peoducers
Attar of roses was once made in India, Persia, Syria, and the Ottoman Empire. The Rose Valley in Bulgaria is located just south of the Balkan Mountains. It is near the town of Kazanlak. The valley is among the major producers of attar of roses in the world. In India, Kannauj is an important city of fabrication of rose attar. It is nicknamed “The Grasse of the East” or “The Grasse of the Orient“. Grasse (in France) is an important city in the fabrication of rose fragrance.
Solvent Extraction
In the solvent extraction method, the flowers are agitated in a vat with a solvent, such as hexane. This process draws out the aroma compounds (fragrance or flavor) and other solid substances like wax and pigments. This method is more commonly used when working with delicate flower petals. These petals may not withstand the heat of steam distillation. The extract is then vacuum processed to remove the solvent. The remaining waxy mass is known as a concrete.
The concrete is then mixed with alcohol that dissolves the aromatic constituents, leaving behind wax and other substances. The alcohol is evaporated with low pressure, leaving behind the finished absolute. Rose absolute is a deep reddish brown with no crystals. The low temperatures used in this process make rose absolute more similar to the scent of fresh roses. It is closer in scent to fresh roses than rose otto. The absolute may be further processed to remove impurities that may still be present after the solvent extraction.
Carbon Dioxide Extraction
The third process, supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction, combines the best aspects of the other two methods. Under normal pressure, CO2 changes directly from a solid to a gas. It does this without passing through the liquid state in a process known as sublimation. But when CO2 is put under 73.9 bar (72.9 atm) of pressure and a temperature of 88.0 °F (31.1 °C) it reaches its “critical point” (or the end point of the pressure–temperature curve under which a liquid and its vapor can coexist). At this point, CO2 becomes a supercritical fluid. It has the properties of both a gas and a liquid. This fluid can extract the aromatics from the plant material.
Like solvent extraction, CO2 extraction takes place at a low temperature. It extracts a wide range of compounds, rendering an essence more faithful to the original. The process leaves the aromatics unaltered by heat. Because CO2 is gas at normal atmospheric pressure (air pressure), it leaves no trace of itself in the final product. The equipment for CO2 extraction is expensive. Therefore, the price of the essential oils obtained from the process is also high.
Rose Essential Oil Adulteration
Distilling a small amount of their essential oil requires a large quantity of rose petals. Depending on the extraction method and plant species, the typical yield can be approximately 1:3,000. To mitigate the cost, most manufacturers cut rose essential oil with citronellol, geraniol, geranium essential oils. They also use palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii, species of lemongrass native to India and Indochina) essential oils.
Some of these “rose essential oils” are up to 90% geranium or palmarosa and only up to 10% rose. This is referred to as extending the rose fragrance. This is sometimes done to adjust for the rose chemotype. Distilled Bulgarian rose essential oil is naturally low in phenylethanol. Ukrainian or Russian rose essential oil is naturally high in phenylethanol.
The Health and Beauty Benefits of Rose Essential Oil
One ancient remedy has transcended time in the quest for radiant skin—rose essential oil. It has been treasured, not just for its intoxicating scent but also for its healing properties. Rose essential oil has a rich history, from Persia’s royal gardens to the Renaissance apothecaries. Read more in detail by downloading our PDF on the health and beauty benefits of rose essential oil.
Rose essential oil has been a cornerstone in beauty rituals and traditional medicine. Since its surge in 16th–century Europe, this precious oil established itself as a luxury staple. it is a tried–and–tested ingredient in cosmetics and skincare products. The height of its use happened in the 1800s, when it became a signature ingredient in perfumery. Today, it is used in an estimated 75% of perfumes.
1. Safe Natural Perfume
The fragrance industry commonly used rose essential oil to create perfumes and to scent a variety of cosmetic products. With its sweet floral scent, rose essential oil can serve as a natural perfume. It has a slightly spicy aroma. You only need a drop or two. This way, you can avoid all the fragrances on the market today that are loaded with dangerous synthetic scents.
2. Anti–inflammatory Properties
Rose essential oil boasts powerful antiseptic, bactericidal and anti–inflammatory properties, making it an excellent choice for soothing irritated skin. It can relieve common skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, eczema and allergic dermatitis. The oil helps to reduce redness and inflammation, promoting a more even and toned complexion.
3. Skin Nourishing
Both rose essential oil and rosewater are excellent emollients (moisturizers). Rosewater has been widely used as a beauty remedy throughout history. It is thought to have been invented by Avicenna, the eminent 10th century Persian philosopher and scientist. Its medicinal value was soon recognized, and it became popular with the Egyptians and Romans. It was a favorite of Queen Cleopatra herself.
4. Balances Oil Production
Contrary to popular belief, some essential oils help balance oil production. Rose essential oil is suitable for both oily and dry skin types. It is non-comedogenic and has natural astringent properties that can regulate sebum production and prevent clogged pores and breakouts.
5. Fights Acne
Fighting acne is challenging and requires tremendous perseverance. Changing your diet to vegan or vegetarian will remove toxins from the blood. And avoiding sugars (both natural and artificial) will decrease inflammation.
A 2010 study researched the activities of ten essential oils towards Propionibacterium acnes (the bacteria responsible for acne). Of the ten oils mint, ginger, lemon, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, chamomile, thyme, rose, and cinnamon. Thyme and cinnamon essential oils were the most effective. Rose and lavender oils also showed significant effectiveness. These oils showed the strongest bactericidal activities. This was observed at a 0.25 percent dilution after only five minutes.
6. Cell Regeneration
Rose essential oil regenerates cell tissues. It is especially beneficial for dry, sensitive, or aging skin. It can keep skin healthy, lubricated and elastic by stimulating the production of collagen. As the body ages, cell division slows. The outer epidermis of the skin becomes thinner and begins to lose its tone and elasticity.
Rose essential oil can help brighten and tone skin and fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation. The oil can also help to tighten the skin. Historically, rose essential oil was used as a cicatrisant (wound–healing) ingredient. It also served as a means of reducing scarring. Many still use it for this purpose today.
A 2023 study discovered that Taif rose essential oil improved UVB-induced oxidative damage and skin photoaging. Antioxidant compounds like citronellol and geraniol showed an increase in antiaging potency. They decreased the concentration of inflammation. They also prevented collagen fragmentation.
7. Anti–Aging Properties
One of the most well–known benefits of rose essential oil is its anti–aging properties. It is packed with antioxidants that combat free radicals, which are known to accelerate the aging process. The oil helps to protect the skin from environmental damage. It reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also promotes a youthful complexion. Regular use of rose essential oil can help to improve skin elasticity, firmness and overall vitality.
8. Support Hair Health
Rose essential oil is included in many natural shampoos and hair care products. It can be beneficial for supporting healthy hair and scalp. It may help soothe a dry, flaking scalp.
9. Pain Relief
In a 2015 a randomized clinical trial, postoperative children inhaled either almond oil or rose essential oil. The patients that inhaled rose essential oil reported a significant decrease in their pain levels. The mechanisms for reducing pain by rose essential oil inhalation include stimulating the olfactory system. They also involve increasing parasympathetic activity. Additionally, they release neurotransmitters such as enkephalin and endorphin. Moreover, they reduce sympathetic activity and the release of cortisol and noradrenalin.
In a 2014 study, patients with menstrual pain received abdominal massages to relieve their discomfort. One group was massaged with a carrier oil (almond) only. The other group was massaged with a mixture of rose essential oil and almond oil. The group massaged with the mixture of rose essential and almond oils reported having less cramping pain following the treatment.
10. Menstrual Pain
A randomized clinical control trial in 2016 researching the effects of rose essential oil on women with primary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea is a medical condition. Women experience cramping pain in the lower abdomen just before or during menstruation. This occurs in the absence of other diseases such as endometriosis.
The researchers divided 100 patients into two groups. One group was treated with the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac sodium. The other group took this anti-inflammatory in combination with aromatherapy using a 2% rose essential oil diffusion. The results showed significant differences in pain levels. Those who inhaled vaporized rose essential oil with medication had much lower pain. This compared to those who used the medication alone.
Rose essential oil may also be supportive following a cesarean section. In a double–blind randomized clinical trial in 2020, participants inhaled a few drops of lavender essential oil. Alternatively, they used rose essential oil following a C–section. Aromatherapy with rose essential oil reduced the severity of anxiety and pain to a greater effect than lavender.
11. Uplift Mood, Decrease Anxiety and Stress
Rose essential oil has a relaxing effect on people. In one 2009 study, researchers found that olfactory stimulation by rose essential oil could produce instant changes in physiological parameters. These include muscle tension, blood pressure (BP), pulse and breathing rates. It also affects skin temperature and skin blood flow. Additionally, it influences electrodermal activity, cortisol (a stress hormone) levels, blood oxygen levels, and brain activity. The results showed that inhalation of rose essential oil significantly decreased oxy–hemoglobin concentration. It also reduced activity in the right prefrontal cortex. Moreover, it increased feelings of relaxation.
Rose essential oil may ease stress and anxiety during childbirth. It is also thought to help tone the uterus[3]. Another 2014 study involved over 120 women in the first stage of labor. Participants received a 10–minute inhalation and foot bath using rose essential oil. They had significantly reduced anxiety scores. In a 2000 study of 8,058 women in labor, rose essential oil was noted. It was the most effective oil for calming anxiety.
Rose essential oil can uplift mood. In a 2012 small pilot study of 28 postpartum women, researchers discovered something significant. Using aromatherapy massage with 2% diluted solutions of lavendula angustifolia (lavender) or rose otto essential oils was effective. They applied it twice a week for four weeks and significantly decreased anxiety. The treatment also reduced depression in women at postpartum high risk. Massage with a dilution of rose essential oil produced significant differences between pre– and post–treatment levels of systolic blood pressure.
A 2022 randomized controlled trial studied the effects of inhaling Rosa damascena (Damask Rose). The research focused on anxiety and sleep quality among 80 operating room personnel. It was found that rose essential oil can be effective in reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality.
12. Antibacterial & Antifungal Properties
In a 2014 article, researchers found that the essential oil distilled from roses was effective against Gram–positive bacteria. It was also effective against Gram–negative, acid–fast bacteria and fungi. Gram–negative bacteria are more resistant to antibiotics. While Gram–positive bacteria can be treated with antibiotics, they ultimately become antibiotic resistant.
Rose essential oil was effective against E. coli, Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, P. fluorescens, Penicillium notatum, and Aspergillus niger. It was also effective against some strains of the bacteria that causes staph infections (Staphylococcus) and strep throat (Streptococcus). Additionally, the study found that rose essential oil was effective against Candida albicans (yeast). This yeast can cause fungal infections in the mouth, gut, and vagina.
13. Stimulates Sex Drive
Two studies have found that inhaling rose essential oil increased sexual desire and sexual satisfaction among men. One 2015 double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled clinical trial involved 60 male participants with a major depressive disorder. These participants were taking conventional antidepressants known as serotonin–reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are known to negatively impact libido. Another double-blind, randomized and placebo-controlled clinical trial the same year involved female participants with the same disorder. They were also taking antidepressants. Rose essential oil increased the release of dopamine and norepinephrine. It also inhibited the synthesis of nitric oxide in the substantia nigra. Inhalation of rose essential oil showed protective effects against damages caused by exposure to formaldehyde in male reproductive system.
Scent can increase attraction for others. When a scent passes through the olfactory canals it influences the limbic system. At the center of the limbic system is the hypothalamus, which drives sexual desire. One 2014 study showed that participants who smelled rose essential oil rated faces as more attractive.
14. Eases Symptoms of Depression
A 2021 study found that rose essential oils have been used to ease depression. Rose oxide stimulates the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine (the “pleasure” hormone). This creates the serotonergic pathway that relieves symptoms of depression.
A 2012 pilot study was published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. A group of 28 postpartum women being treated for depression were split into two groups. One group was treated with 15-minute aromatherapy sessions. These sessions used an essential oil blend of rose otto and lavender. They were conducted twice a week for four weeks. The other group was a control group.
The aromatherapy group experienced “significant improvements” greater than the control group. These were observed on both the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD–7).
In a 2017 systematic review, research experts advise opting for aromatherapy massage to treat depression. They recommend massage over inhalation. It may take up to eight weekly sessions before noticing a change in symptoms.
[3] Conrad, Pam (2019). Women’s Health Aromatherapy. Singing Dragon, London.
The Difference Between Rose Essential Oil and Rosehip Seed Oil
Rose essential oil is extracted from the petals of various species of rose. It’s rich in essential oils and is renowned for its fragrant aroma. This oil is primarily used for its scent and is believed to have therapeutic properties.
In contrast, rosehip seed oil is distilled from the seeds and fruits of the rose plant. It is typically from the Rosa canina or Rosa rubiginosa species. This occurs just beneath the flower, the part you would see if the petals wilted and dropped off. Rosehip seed oil is considered a carrier oil rather than an essential oil. Unlike rose essential oil, rosehip seed oil is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. It is widely used for hydrating dry skin, reducing scars and fine lines, and promoting skin regeneration.
The Therapeutic Uses of Rose Essential Oil
Rose essential oil has demonstrated effects on the central nervous system (CNS). These effects include hypnotic, anti-convulsant, and anti-depressant activities. It also has anti-anxiety and analgesic properties. The oil can alleviate morphine withdrawal signs. Rose essential oil is usually quite expensive and is highly potent. Before using any alternative or complementary treatment, talk to your doctor about any current medical conditions. Discuss any possible drug interactions or side effects.
If you want to use rose essential oil in homemade products, it’s helpful to know that it blends well. It blends well with bergamot. It also blends well with chamomile, clary sage, fennel, geranium, and helichrysum. Additionally, it goes well with lavender, lemon, neroli, patchouli, sandalwood, and ylang ylang.
Room Freshener: you can diffuse rose essential oil in your home using a diffuser or inhale it directly. To make a natural room freshener, mix 1–3 drops of rose essential oil with water in a spritz bottle.
Acne Treatment: try dabbing 1 drop of pure rose essential oil on blemishes three times a day. Ensure you use a sterile cotton swab. If the pure oil proves to be too much, dilute it slightly in some coconut oil. Or try a facial steam with 1–4 drops of rose essential oil to detoxify and clear pores and refresh face.
Acne Spray: mix 4 drops of rose essential oil with 1 tablespoon of witch hazel in a spray bottle. Fill the rest with distilled water. Once it is mixed well, spray it on the face like a toner after cleansing. Be careful to keep it away from the eyes.
Libido Boost: diffuse it or apply 2–3 drops topically to your neck and chest. Combine rose essential oil with a carrier oil like jojoba, coconut or olive for a therapeutic massage.
Easing PMS: diffuse it, or apply diluted rose essential oil diluted topically to your abdomen.
Facial Moisturizer: blend 2–3 drops of rose essential oil with regular face cream. This mixture helps soothe your skin. It also tones your skin. Gently massage your face and neck in circular motions.
Overnight Face Serum: Combine 8 drops each of lavender and frankincense essential oils. Add 3 drops of sandalwood essential oil and 2 drops of rose essential oil in a 2 oz. glass dropper bottle and fill the rest with jojoba oil. Apply nightly after cleansing.
Anti–Aging Face Serum: Combine 9 drops each of lavender and rose essential oils. Mix them with 3 tablespoons of argan oil in a 2 oz. amber glass dropper bottle. Apply nightly after cleansing.
Skin Toner: use rosewater daily as a toner to promote healthy skin. You can also create a pH balancing toner. Mix rose and arnica essential oils, aloe, and witch hazel in a spritz bottle. This toner evens skin tone and minimizes pores.
To Brighten Skin Tone: Mix aloe vera gel with 5 drops of rose essential oil. Add a pinch of turmeric powder. Apply all over face and neck. Leave on for 10–15 min and wipe off with warm water.
Hair Moisturizer: 2–3 drops of rose essential oil to shampoo to promote healthy moisturized hair.
Natural Perfume: simply dab 1–2 drops diluted rose essential oil behind your ears or on your wrists.
Herbal TeaHot Bath: combine 1 cup Epsom salts and ½ cup Himalayan pink salt in a large bowl. Pour it in the tub while the bath water is running. Once the bathtub is full, add 10 drops of rose essential oil to 1 cup of milk. Then, pour the mixture into the bath water. For a little extra luxury, toss in a handful of fresh rose petals as well. Stir the bath and soak.
Foot Bath: Add 5 drops of diluted rose essential oil into the foot bath. Soak your feet for 10 minutes.
Rose essential oil is available as a 100% pure oil in some health food stores and online. Rose essential oil can be inhaled directly from the bottle, diffused at home for a warming aroma and applied topically. When buying rose essential oil, ensure you purchase a high-quality product. It should be 100 percent organic and pure-grade. Make sure it’s made by a trustworthy and reputable company.
If you’re buying rose essential oil in a brick–and–mortar store and a tester is available, first check its composition. Determine whether it has been combined with a vegetable oil. Ensure that the essential oil is pure. Place a small droplet on a piece of paper. Look for an oily ring, which could mean that the oil has been diluted. The two most common rose essential oils are distilled from R. damascena and R. centifolia varieties. Experts at the University of Minnesota recommend that you check the label for the Latin name of the plant. You should also verify the country of origin when purchasing rose essential oil.
Always dilute rose essential oil with a carrier oil due to its high concentration. Common carrier oils you could use include babassu, argan, sunflower, sweet almond, jojoba or hemp seed. Coconut oil is also a good choice, either fractionated coconut oil or virgin coconut oil.
Use a safe dilution ratio for rose essential oil. Mix 1–2 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil. This is important, especially when applying the oil to sensitive skin. In any form, rose essential oil should never be used on broken or damaged skin. Do not apply directly to open wounds. Never use rose essential oil in eyes or in mucous membranes. When applying rose essential oil topically (on your skin), always perform a 24–hour skin patch test first with 1–2 drops. Read how for further details.
Rose essential oil can have a long shelf life if stored properly in tightly–sealed dark glass containers. Store in a cool and dry place, such as a dresser drawer or kitchen cabinet. Prevent exposure to extreme heat and cold temperatures. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Drug Interactions
If you are currently taking any medications, consult your doctor. If you have any ongoing health issues, speak with your doctor before using rose essential oil. Also speak with your doctor first before using this oil topically if you are pregnant or nursing.
Contraindications
Excessive use of rose essential oil may cause side effects in some individuals. These include complications of pregnancy, gastrointestinal distress, and bleeding problems. Additionally, inflammation, gas, headaches, and diarrhea may occur. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using rose essential oil if you’re taking medications or have preexisting health conditions.
Although uncommon, rose essential oil may cause an allergic reaction in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you experience symptoms like rashes, hives or swelling after using rose essential oil, discontinue use immediately.
Rosa damascena essential oil is not contraindicated in pregnancy[4]. It can be used in aromatherapy in a diffuser. The recommended dose is no more than 4 drops with a little water. Use it only for 15 minutes at a time. Take very long breaks in between. Use essential oils with extreme caution on children, do not use rose essential oil on children. Some brands clearly label their essential oils “KidSafe” on the bottle if it can be used on children ages 2–10.
Pets
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) advises against using rose essential oil on your pet. They warn not to apply it directly. It can be toxic. This is because it can be toxic. Symptoms of overexposure include an unsteady or wobbly walk, lethargy or depression, and a drop in body temperature. If your pet ingests rose essential oil, you may also see vomiting and diarrhea.
Keep pets out of rooms where you’re using a diffuser. Keep diffusers away from the reach of pets. This is especially important for pets with a history of respiratory issues. Birds are particularly prone to respiratory issues.
