Rose essential oil often originates from the cabbage rose (Rosa centifolia), though it can also come from the damask rose (Rosa damascena) plant. The rose plant’s essential oil has been shown in studies to have a variety of possible advantages. Therefore in this article we will find out rose essential oil benefits & uses!

The rose plant’s rose petals are used to make pure rose essential oil. To make just one ounce of this priceless oil, 60,000 roses are required. Also, it takes a lot of skill for an essential oil firm to extract rose essential oil because it is so sensitive. Pure rose oil is therefore one of the most expensive oils available.

rose's petals

History Of Rose Essential Oil

Since ancient times, rose essential oil has been employed in cosmetic and traditional medical procedures. According to legend, Cleopatra used rose oil to maintain the youthful and brilliant appearance of her skin in ancient times. The Queen of Sheba also enjoyed using the oil. The 16th century saw the first introduction of rose essential oil to Europe, where the cosmetics industry immediately adopted it as a cornerstone.

history of rose essential oil

The town of Kazanlak in Bulgaria is where the first rose plantations were discovered. Due to the good temperature circumstances, Rose plantations were fast to dominate most of central Bulgaria and the city soon became renowned as the ‘Valley of Roses’. The Valley of Roses is currently the world’s centre for the production of rose oil; the soil composition, air humidity, cloudiness, and precipitation levels all help to produce the best and most prized rose oil on the planet.

the valley of roses

In the 19th century, rose essential oil production peaked. It was widely utilised in this period in cosmetics and other beauty goods. Sadly, many factors including World Wars I and II resulted in a sharp drop in its use during the 20th century.

What is The Difference between Rose Oil and Rosehip Seed Oil?

 Rosehip seed oil is extracted from the seeds and fruits that grow immediately below the bloom, or the area that would be visible if the rose’s petals withered and fell off the plant. Compared to an essential oil, it is less concentrated.

Rosehip oil, which is frequently used for cosmetic purposes, is classified as a carrier oil rather than an essential oil. 

Benefits Of Rose Essential Oil

1. Alleviates Pain

In a research from 2015, postoperative kids inhaled either rose or almond oil. The group of patients who inhaled rose oil indicated that their pain levels had significantly decreased. The “feel-good” hormone known as endorphins may have been triggered in the brain by the rose oil, according to researchers.

Based on the findings of this study, the researchers hypothesised that utilising rose oil in aromatherapy could be a successful method for treating post-operative pain in patients.

rose essential oil for pain relief

2. Relieves Menstrual Pain

In one study, abdominal massages were given to individuals experiencing menstrual pain to help them feel better. Almond oil was used only in one group’s massages while rose oil was also used in the other group’s massages. Following the massage, the rose oil group experienced less cramping pain than the almond oil group.

3. Reduces Anxiety & Stress

Several people report feeling relaxed after using rose oil. In one study, the participants received breathing masks and rose oil applied topically to examine the effect of the oil without any olfactory stimulus. The findings revealed a notable improvement in systolic blood pressure, breathing rate, and blood oxygen saturation. In fact, the participants acknowledged that they felt more at ease and relaxed.

Another case involving more than 100 expectant mothers discovered that rose oil reduced their anxiety levels.

4. Antibacterial Activity

Researchers have discovered that rose essential oil can effectively combat a variety of infection-causing bacteria. This contains some types of the bacteria staphylococcus, which can cause staph infections and strep throat, as well as E. coli (Streptococcus). The study also discovered that Candida albicans, which may cause fungal infections in the mouth, gut, and vagina, were resistant to rose oil.

5. Stimulates Sensual Desire

The flower’s essential oil is the fundamental component. Its aroma alone has the power to stimulate you, increase desire, and evoke the amorous emotions necessary for a fulfilling sex life. This can lessen sexual dysfunction symptoms, frigidity, and a general lack of enthusiasm in engaging in sexual activity with partners.

Inhaling rose oil increased male and, to a lesser extent, female sexual desire and satisfaction, according to two studies. In one study, antidepressant-using male participants with a major depressive disorder participated, whereas in the other, antidepressant-using female individuals with the same disorder participated.

Dopamine is a well-known motivator, and it is thought that when it is released in the brain, it increases sexual desire while also reducing depressive symptoms.

the stimulating aroma of rose essential oil

6. Helps With Depression

Several clinical pieces of research have revealed that rose oil is effective in reducing the signs and symptoms of depression. A small number of postpartum women received depression treatment as part of a 2012 research. One group had aromatherapy, in addition to standard medical care. Women who used aromatherapy saw a considerable improvement compared to those who just used conventional treatment.

The release of the neurotransmitter dopamine is stimulated by rose oil, according to studies. This molecule, according to researchers, is crucial in easing the symptoms of depression.

Experts in the field of research advise against using inhalation to treat depression and instead recommend aromatherapy massage. You might need to be a bit patient because it could take up to eight weekly sessions before you see a change in the depression symptoms.

rose essential oil benefits for depression

7. Promotes Wound Healing

Due to its anti-infective qualities, rose oil was utilised in ancient Persian medicine to cure wounds. By combining the oil with a carrier oil, you can apply it topically, but be sure to speak with your doctor first.

8. Improves Skin Health

Several keratinocyte differentiation-related skin disorders and skin texture can both be managed with rose essential oil. The protectors of your skin’s defence against heat, UV rays, water loss, harmful germs, and parasites are keratinocytes. When keratinocyte distribution differentiates, diseases like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis take place. It speeds up the fading of boil, acne, and pox scars and post-marks on the skin. Stretch marks, surgical scars, and fat cracks brought on by pregnancy and delivery can all fade in this way. The antioxidant properties of rose essential oil, which promote the skin’s natural healing processes, are largely responsible for this.

9. Relieves Spasms

Spasms of the intestines, the respiratory system, and other limbs’ muscles are all effectively relieved by rose essential oil. It also aids in the treatment of spasmodic cholera, muscle pulls, cramps, and convulsions.

How to Use Rose Essential Oil

Rose essential oil is extremely potent. If you want to apply it topically or inhale it, you should dilute it.

Bath

Add 10 drops of rose essential oil to a carrier oil, then pour into a warm tub to create a rose oil bath. Before adding essential oils to water, you should always dilute them in a carrier oil.

Add a few drops of rose oil to a foot bath, dilute it, and soak your feet for ten minutes.

Diffuser or Inhalation

You can either use a diffuser to inhale rose oil to alleviate anxiety, tension, or depression, or you can delicately dab it on your chest, neck, and wrists. Prior to applying it to your skin, make sure you mix it with a carrier oil like coconut, almond, or jojoba. A rose oil massage, in which you can combine the rose essential oil with a carrier massage oil, may also be beneficial for you. 

Consult your doctor about any existing medical issues, potential drug interactions, or side effects before using any complementary or alternative treatments.

rose essential oil uses

Final Thoughts

You can use rose oil effectively to: lessen stress, anxiety, depression, and pain; boost libido; and guard against harmful germs and fungus, though additional research is required to establish some of these advantages.

Like many other essential oils, you shouldn’t consume rose oil.

But before using the oil for the first time, it’s usually a good idea to conduct a skin patch test to check for allergies. Apply a little amount of rose oil that has been diluted and blended with a carrier oil to the skin on the inside of your elbow to test the oil.

You can read more about rose essential oil benefits on Healthline, Dr Axe and on Organic Facts. Finally you can check Aromavibes for a wide range of essential oils!