Rose essential oil, (rosa damascena). ID: 542-68

Facilitates pain

In one study, postoperative children inhaled rose oil. Patients in the oil-inhaled group reported a significant reduction in their pain levels. Researchers believe that the rose may have stimulated the brain to release endorphins.

Based on the results of this study, the researchers suggested that aromatherapy using rosemary could be an effective way to relieve pain in patients who have undergone surgery.

Relieve menstrual discomfort

In a study conducted in 2013, patients with menstrual pain received abdominal massage to relieve their discomfort.

One group massaged with carrier oil only (almond oil), while the other group massaged with almond oil and rose oil. The rose group reported less pain after the massage than the almond group.

Reduces stress

The rose has a relaxing effect on many people.

In one study, researchers applied a rose to each participant's skin and then measured its effects on the most common anxiety symptoms.

Blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate, cortisol levels and blood oxygen levels decreased. People also reported feeling much more relaxed after oil treatment.

Another study involving more than 100 women who gave birth found that the rose reduced their stress levels during childbirth.

Antibacterial, antifungal properties

Researchers have found that the essential oil of roses can be effective against a wide range of germs that can cause infections. This includes E. coli, as well as certain strains of bacteria that can cause grape (Staphylococcus) and streptococcal (Streptococcus) infections.

In addition, the study found that the rose was effective against Candida albicans, which can cause fungal infections of the mouth, intestines and vagina.

Stimulates sexual drive

Two studies have found that inhaling rose oil increased sexual desire and sexual satisfaction among men and, to a lesser extent, women.

The first study involved men with a major depressive disorder taking antidepressants and the second study included women with the same disorder and also taking antidepressants.

Researchers believe that the release of dopamine in the brain, a known motivator, may be what causes the increase in sexual desire, while at the same time relieving the symptoms of depression.

Relieves depressive symptoms

Some clinical studies have found that rose oil helps improve the symptoms of depression. In a 2012 study, a small group of postpartum women were treated for depression.

One group received aromatherapy in addition to conventional medical treatments. Women who used aromatherapy improved significantly more than women who used conventional medicine alone.

Studies have also found that the rose stimulates the release of the chemical dopamine. Researchers believe that this chemical plays a key role in relieving the symptoms of depression.

Research experts advise you to choose aromatherapy massage to treat depression rather than inhalation. It may take up to eight weekly sessions before you notice a change in depressive symptoms, so you may need to be patient.

How to use the rose

The rose is usually quite expensive and very powerful. It should be diluted whether you intend to inhale it or use it on your skin.

To make a rose bath, add 10 drops of rose essential oil to a carrier oil (almond, coconut) and then add to a hot tub. Essential oils should always be diluted in carrier oil before adding to water.

To make a foot bath, add a few drops of diluted rose to the foot bath and soak your feet for 10 minutes.

To deal with stress, anxiety or depression, you can either inhale a rose using a diffuser or place it lightly on your chest, neck and wrists.

Be sure to mix it first with carrier oil such as coconut, almond or jojoba oil before it touches the skin. You can also benefit from a rose massage, to which rose essential oil is added to a carrier massage oil.

Security Tips

Before using any alternative or adjunctive therapy, talk to your doctor about any current medical conditions, possible drug interactions or side effects.

Essential oils are strong and very concentrated. If you are going to inhale an essential oil of any kind, put a few drops in a diffuser or inhale the lid of the container instead of placing your nose near the bottle itself. Excessive inhalation can cause headaches.

If you apply it directly to your skin, first mix a few drops of rose in carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.

Rose, like many other essential oils, should not be consumed.

Some essential oils can be harmful to pregnant and lactating women (and their babies). Think about who can enter an environment where you diffuse essential oils.

If there are small children or pets in your home, it is a good idea to talk to your veterinarian or pediatrician before introducing an essential oil, as some oils are toxic to children and pets.

Side effects

When inhaled or used topically in a person without allergies, there are currently no known side effects from rose essential oil.

However, it is always a good idea to have a skin test to check for allergies before using the oil for the first time.

To control the oil, simply apply a small amount of diluted rose (mixed with a carrier oil) to the skin inside your elbow. If there is no itching, swelling or redness within a few hours, then it is probably safe to use the oil on your skin.