Known for their exquisite and intoxicatingaromaand visual beauty, roses have graced some of the fondest and happiest memories of our lives. There is a reason roses are the symbol of love, the opening of the heart, friendship, and intimacy.
It’s one of my most treasured oils and one that I covet over all other floral oils for its emotionally supportive properties and ability to instill happiness and contentment.
You simply cannot smell a rose without a smile!
Table of Contents
The Benefits of Rose Essential Oil
For centuries, the rose has been a symbol of love, beauty, and passion. But did you know that the benefits of rose extend beyond its captivating appearance and sweet fragrance?
Rose essential oil, extracted from the petals of thousands of roses, is a versatile and powerful oil with various physical and emotional benefits. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving skin health and boosting immunity, the uses for rose essential oil are seemingly endless.
In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of rose essential oil and how it can enhance your overall well-being mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
Botanical Name
There are two main species of roses used for essential oil production:
- Rosa damascena
- Rosa centifolia
Synonyms
Rosa damascenais commonly known as Bulgarian rose, Turkish rose, or rose otto.
Rosa centifoliais known as French rose, rose maroc, attar of rose, orrose absolute.
Family
Rosaceae
Origins
The rosa species is considered to be a native ofEuropeand Western Asia. It is believed that modern rose cultivars are derived from Rosa gallica; a dense, mostly thornless shrub found in the Mediterranean with light red flowers and yellow centers.
It is believed that theRosa damascenaoriginated in Persia where it then spread to Mesopotamia, Palestine, across Asia Minor, and finally to Greece and beyond.
The name Damascus rose dates back to the Crusades.
There are thousands of rose varieties; however, only three are typically used for making rose essential oils.
These include:
- Rosa damascena
- Rosa centifolia
- Rosa gallica
It is thought that the firstrose essential oilwas produced usingRosa damascenacultivars inBulgariaas far back as the 15thcentury.
By the end of the 17thcentury, commercial rose growing and the production ofrose essential oilbecame well established in the Bulgarian mountain district of Kazanlik.
Today, Bulgarianrose essential oil(andBulgarian rose otto) is still considered the most prized and highest qualityrose oilproduced.
Other countries that produce large quantities ofrose oilinclude:
- China
- France
- Italy
- Morocco
- Turkey
ExtractionMethod and Essential Oil Characteristics
There are three main oilextractionsobtained from roses:
- Rose Essential oil– obtained throughsteam distillation
- Rose Concrete– Obtained throughsolventextraction
- Rose Absolute– Furtherextractionof the concrete
To make all three of theseextractions, thousands of pounds ofrose petalsare gathered by hand between the hours of 5 am and 10 am when the flowers have opened, and their oil concentration is highest.
The petals are then quickly transported to the distillery where they undergo a two-stage distillation process.
After distillation, even the hydrosol that is produced as a by-product of distillation is redistilled in order to get every drop ofrose oilpossible. This common practice is called cohobation.
Believe it or not, the yield of cohobation is actually several times higher than the first distillation of therose petals. The resulting oil from both distillations is then blended together.
Fun fact: the phenyl ethyl alcohol content found in rose otto oil is derived almost exclusively from cohobation water distillation.
In order to make 1 kg ofrose essential oil, you need to distill 4,000 kg ofrose petals. ⅓ of the oil comes from the first distillation while the last ⅔ comes from redistilling the hydrosol.
Rosewater, one of my favorite skincare items, is the water left from distillingrose petalsafter therose oilhas been removed. It is believed that the first distillation of rose water was by Avicenna ( regarded as one of the most significant physicians, astronomers, thinkers, and writers of the Islamic Golden Age) in the 10thcentury.
Rose concrete is obtained through the use of asolventsuch as hexane, which draws out the aromatic compounds as well as other soluble substances like wax and pigment. Thesolventis then removed using vacuum processing and the remaining waxy substance isrose concrete.
Rose concrete contains all of the constituents asrose absolute, just in a semi-solid form, even at room temperature.
To obtainrose absolute, rose concrete is mixed with alcohol which dissolves the aromatic constituents, leaving behind the wax and pigment. The alcohol then is low-pressure evaporated which leaves behind the finishedrose absolute.
Historical and Traditional Use
No other flower in history has been considered as sacred or as treasured as the rose. Exalted in literature and mythology, used as a heraldic emblem, and even identified with the Virgin Mary, the rose has been esteemed for its metaphorical heart-opening qualities and regal symbolism for centuries.
The wordrosacomes from theGreekwordrodon, meaning “red”. The story of Adonis states that the rose is red because Aphrodite wounded herself on one of its thorns and stained the flower red with her blood.
In the book Natural Senses, thescentof the rose is described at length; the climate and soil conditions which produce the finestrose oil, the best season for harvesting, the time of day and the best weather conditions for picking the flowers in order to preserve itsscent, and even when a rose reaches the peak of its life cycle – all of which affect the finalrose oil.
Roses were prized in Assyria, Babylon, China, Greece, and Rome for theirhealingproperties.
TheRomanshad an obsession with roses and rosewater. During festivals and feasts,rose petalswere strewn on tables and along streets and even worn in garlands around the neck to ward off inebriation. They were a sign of mirth, pleasure, and merriment.
In English medicine, the rose was used extensively for a variety of ills, especially inflammation. Nicholas Culpepper used rose ointment to soothe headaches and comfort the heart. Freshrose petalsand peppermint were crushed and used as a poultice for quieting over-heated spirits.
Today,rose essential oilandrosewaterare used most often in skin-care preparations, perfumes, and as a flavoring for cuisine.
Other Possible Uses
Thehealingproperties of rose have been used in medicine throughout the ages and still plays an important role in medicine today.
Rose is used for digestive and menstrual complaints, headaches andnervous tension,livercongestion, poor circulation, fever, eyeinfections, and various skin conditions.
Other uses include:
- Asthma
- Chronic bronchitis
- Frigidity
- Gingivitis
- Hemorrhaging
- Herpes simplex
- Impotence
- Infections
- Scarring
- Sexual debilities
- Skin diseases
- Sprains
- Thrush
- Ulcers
- Wounds
- Wrinkles
Chemical Components
Rose essential oilis one of the most complex containing over 300 chemical compounds, most of which are unidentified.
What is listed below accounts for about 86% of whatrose oilis composed of. The remaining 14% represents over 300 different compounds.
The Chemical Composition of BulgarianRose Essential Oil
- Ethanol – 1.43%
- Pentanal – 0.07%
- 3-hexenal – 0.26%
- α-pinene – 0.73%
- camphene and heptanal – 0.14%
- β-pinene – 0.03%
- myrcene and hexanol – 0.5%
- heptanol – 0.02%
- hexyl acetate – 0.01%
- methyl heptanone – 0.04%
- octanol – 0.07%
- linalool – 2.18%
- cis-rose oxide and nonanal – 0.43%
- trans-rose oxide – 0.17%
- nonanol – 0.09%
- phenylethyl alcohol, decanol and terpinen-4-ol – 1.45%
- citronellol – 33.40%
- nerol – 5.90%
- geraniol and neral – 18.47%
- geranial and carvone – 0.72%
- citronellyl acetate – 0.53%
- neryl acetate – 0.06%
- cinnamaldehyde and C15 paraffin – 0.21%
- geranyl acetate – 1.60%
- eugenol and trans β-damascenone – 1.20%
- methyl eugenol and C16 paraffin – 2.37%
- octanal – 0.05%
- benzaldehyde – 0.10%
Therapeutic Action
Remedies containing rose are known to be cooling and soothing in nature. It is interesting to note that the application of roses in ancient medicine mirrors how roses are used today.
Rose essential oilis:
- Antidepressant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiseptic
- Anti-spasmodic
- Antiviral (killsviruses)
- Aphrodisiac
- Astringent
- Bactericidal (killsbacteria)
- Choleretic (increases bile flow)
- Cicatrisant (heals through the formation of scar tissue)
- Depurative (purifying and detoxifying)
- Emmenagogue (stimulates menstrual flow)
- Hemostatic (stops bleeding)
- Laxative
- Sedative - great formeditationandprayer
- Stomachic
- Tonic (heart,liver,stomach, and uterus)
Pharmacology and Clinical Studies
Rose oilhas been shown to help reduce highblood pressureand arrhythmia of the heart as well as act as a protective against gastrointestinal ulceration.
The combination of Melissa essential oil androse essential oilhas been confirmed as an effective remedy for Herpes zoster and Herpes simplex.
Rose oilhas also been found to have acalmingeffect on animals.
Esoteric Uses/Action
Astrological
Venus
Ayurvedic
Pitta
Body Type
Mesomorph
Chakra
2, 4, 6, 7 (balances all, especially theheart chakra)
Character
Yin; Cold and dry 2nddegree
Crystals
Ruby (chakra-2), Rose quartz, emerald (chakra-4), kunzite, pink calcite, watermelon tourmaline (chakra-7)
Element
Water, air, light, ether
Number
6
Energetics
Yin deficiency (kidney 6, Spleen 6), Excess yang (liver2, heart 3)
Rose is classified as a cooling and moistening oil that helps clear away excess heat and inflammation. It alleviatesdepressionandanxietyand can be beneficial for “hot” conditions involving theliverand gallbladder, where tension,irritability, headaches, and constipation are present.
Fragrant Influence and Characteristics
Rose oilis deep orange/red in color, semi-transparent, and slightly viscous.
Rose essential oilis stimulating and elevating to the mind, instilling a sense of wellbeing. Thescentis intoxicating andaphrodisiacwith a sweet, deep, and mellow “antique rose”aroma.
Note
Middle to base note
Fragrant Intensity
3
Scent
Floral, spicy, rich, deep, sensual, green, honey-like
BlendClassification
Personifier, enhancer, equalizer, and modifier
Frequency
The highest of all essential oils – approximately 320 MHz.rose oilenhances the frequency of every cell within the body, bringing balance and harmony.
Rose Essential Oil Spiritual Benefits
Rose essential oil is believed to be a powerful tool for promoting spiritual growth, emotional well-being, and a deeper connection with the divine.
Some of the spiritual benefits associated with rose essential oil include:
- Promotes love and compassion- Rose essential oil is often associated with the heart chakra, which is believed to be the center of love and compassion. Using rose essential oil can help promote feelings of love, empathy, and understanding.
- Enhances spiritual awareness- Rose essential oil is said to help enhance spiritual awareness and promote a deeper connection with the divine. This can help you feel more grounded and connected to your spiritual practice.
- Clears negative energy- Rose essential oil is believed to have a cleansing effect on the energy of a space or person. It is said to clear negative energy and promote positive, uplifting vibrations.
- Encourages self-love - Using rose essential oil can help you connect with your inner beauty and promote feelings of self-love and self-acceptance. This can be especially helpful for those struggling with low self-esteem or self-doubt.
- Promotes emotional healing- Rose essential oil is known for its ability to promote emotional healing and support mental health. It is said to help release pent-up emotions and promote feelings of peace and tranquility.
BlendsWell With
- Amyris
- Balsam of Peru
- Bergamot
- Black pepper
- Cedarwood
- Cinnamon bark
- Clary Sage
- Coriander
- Frankincense
- Galbanum
- Rose Geranium
- Grapefruit
- Helichrysum
- Jasmine
- Laurel leaf
- Lavender
- Lemon
- Lime
- Litsea cubeba
- Mandarin
- Melissa
- Myrrh
- Neroli
- Palmarosa
- Patchouli
- Petitgrain
- Romanchamomile
- Sandalwood
- Sweet orange
- Tangerine
- Vanilla
- Vetiver
- Ylang ylang
- Yuzu
Indications forRose Essential Oil
Rose oilhas some of the most diverse applications and therapeutic properties of all essential oils and be used for physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.
Nervous System
Rose essential oilis known to be a gentle yet potentantidepressantthat is sedative for the nerves. It is soothing to the heart not only emotionally during times of romantic turmoil or grief, but also for palpitations,irritability, and insomnia.
Simply smelling rose can help release anger, despair, and frustration by opening the heart and offering supportive comfort during times of sorrow and psychological pain. Thescentof rose instills empathy, love, and feelings of friendship.
Reproductive System
Traditionally, rose has been used to astonishing effect on the female reproductive system as a uterine tonic, menstrual regulator, and sexual organ purifier. It helps regulate fertility and balance an irregular cycle.
Skin Care
Rose essential oilis one of the best essential oils to use for skincare, especially in anti-aging formulas. It is anti-inflammatory, hydrating, and softening to the skin and is well suited for dry, sensitive, and mature skin types.
Rose oilis also slightly astringent and tonic in nature which is good for controlling redness and irritation.
Personality Profile
Passionate, spiritual, deep, and hypnotic. Epitomizes the female spirit and personifies perfection.
Mode of Administration and Application
Topical– bath, compress,massage, ointment, skincare.
Inhalation– nasal or Himalayan inhaler, diffuser.
Safety
Rose absoluteandrose otto essential oilis non-toxic, non-sensitizing, and non-irritating.
Maximum Dilution
Rose absolute– 2.5%
Rose otto – 0.6%
Is it Kid-Safe?
Rose absolute– yes
Rose otto – no
Frequently Asked Questions AboutRose Essential Oil
What doesRose essential oilhelp with?
Rose essential oilhas the most notable benefits regarding:
- Relieving stress andanxiety-Rose essential oilhas acalmingeffect on the mind and body, making it a great choice for reducing stress andanxiety.
- Improving mood- The pleasantaromaofrose essential oilcan help uplift your mood and promote feelings of happiness and well-being.
- Promoting relaxation-Rose essential oilis known for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce feelings of tension and nervousness.
- Enhancing skin health-Rose essential oilis often used in skin care products due to its ability to hydrate, nourish, and soothe the skin. It can also help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
DoesRose essential oilraise your vibration?
It is believed by many that rose essential oil can raise your vibration, the energetic frequency of your body, and the energy around you.
Here are some reasons whyrose essential oilare thought to raise your vibration:
- Heartchakraactivation-Rose essential oilis often associated with theheart chakra, which is the center of love and compassion. When theheart chakrais balanced and activated, it can help raise your vibration.
- Positive energy- The pleasantscentofrose essential oilpromotes positive, uplifting energy that can help raise your vibration and improve your mood.
- Emotionalhealing-Rose essential oilis known for its ability to promote emotionalhealingand support mental health. When you feel emotionally balanced and healthy, your vibration will naturally rise.
- Spiritual connection-Rose essential oilis said to help enhance spiritual awareness and promote a deeper connection with the divine. This can help you feel more grounded and connected to the higher energies around you.
What is the most spiritual essential oil?
Many essential oils are commonly associated with spiritual practices and may be considered more spiritual by some individuals.
Some of the most spiritual essential oils include:
- Frankincense- Frankincense essential oil has been used in spiritual and religious ceremonies for thousands of years. It is believed to have grounding and centering properties that can help enhance spiritual awareness and connection.
- Sandalwood- Sandalwood essential oil is often used inmeditationand spiritual practices, as it is believed to help quiet the mind and promote relaxation and focus. It is also associated with the rootchakra, which is the center of grounding and stability.
- Rose-Rose essential oilis often associated with theheart chakraand the energy of love and compassion. It is believed to promote emotionalhealingand enhance spiritual connection.
- Lavender - Lavender essential oil is known for its calming and relaxing properties. It is often used in spiritual practices to help reduce stress and anxiety and promote a sense of inner peace.
- Sage - Sage essential oil is associated with purification and cleansing and is often used in spiritual practices to help clear negative energy and promote positive energy flow.
A "spiritual essential oil" will vary depending on personal preference, spiritual beliefs, and intended use.
What is the vibrational frequency ofrose essential oil?
Rose essential oilis believed to have a frequency of approximately 320 MHz.
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Sugared Roses DIY Lip Scrub Recipe
DIY Smith’s Rosebud Salve
References
Rose (symbolism)
Avicenna
Therapeutic efficacy of rose oil: A comprehensive review of clinical evidence
Pharmacological Effects of Rosa Damascena
Relaxing effect of rose oil on humans.
Rose Oil
Reference Guide for Essential Oils
Essential Oils Integrative Medical Guide: Building Immunity, Increasing Longevity, and Enhancing Mental Performance With Therapeutic-Grade Essential Oils
The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, Revised and Expanded: Over 800 Natural, Nontoxic, and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health, Beauty, and Safe Home and Work Environments
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