Rose essential oil is said to be the queen of all essential oils. The rose flower has become a symbol of purity, love, and longevity. And while in olden times, its scarcity, delicacy, and aroma have given the rose flower the highest rank among them all, now we have science that backs up the claims around the qualities and healing potential of the rose oil.
It said that there are some 200 different species of roses. According to Smithsonian, fossil evidence found in Colorado in the U.S. suggests that plants of the rose family have existed for at least 35 million years.
A BBC editorial called “The story of the ‘queen of flowers’” reports that Greek writer Achilles Tatius called the rose the “queen of flowers” in the second century AD, and Persian poets like Hafez, referred to roses as “its loveliness was unrivaled”.
Rosa Damascena is one species of the Rose family that was firstly grown in Bulgaria, Iran, Syria, and some regions in Turkey. Another name popular name for this species is Damask rose, after the capital city of Syria.
In Bulgaria, the climate and the soil create the perfect conditions for Rosa damascena to bloom. The size of the rose plant is generally around one meter (3 feet).
Keep in mind that there is a lot of intense human labor involved in the picking process - it lasts from dusk till dawn. The route of organic rose oil is long and laborious. Can you imagine that it takes more than 10 000 rose petals to produce 5 ml of rose essential oil?
Chemical composition of the rose oil
Rosa damascena is rich in terpenes, glycosides, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. This plant contains carboxylic acid, myrcene, vitamin C, kaempferol, and quercetin.
According to a research note by the Sharif University of Technology, there are 95 macro- and micro-components in the essential oil of Rosa damascena. The major components of the oil are β-citronellol (14.5-47.5%), nonadecane (10.5-40.5%), geraniol (5.5-18%), and nerol.
The abundance of phenolic compounds in the rose plant makes it so used for healing various alignments. The rose oil exhibits antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant qualities.
Now let’s dig into some science-backed benefits of rose oil. Rose oil and water have been subject to quite a few clinical studies which have tried out the potential of rose extract in various alignments – starting with skin conditions to examining the benefits of rose oil on your mental wellbeing.
Antimicrobial activity
The antiviral potential of the rose oil is due to the components citronellol and geraniol. Rosa damascena exhibits antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus, Escherichia coli, Proteus Vulgaris, Candida albicans, and Salmonella typhimurium.
Benefits of rose oil in cancer treatment
Rose essential oil has exhibited anti-tumor, anti-carcinogenic, and cytotoxic capacity. The geraniol induces apoptosis in cancer cells, causing the death of the cancer cells.
Alleviates depression
Depression is a severe condition that requires professional help, and there is no single formula for a cure. Some clinical trials and experiments suggest that rose oil can positively affect our psyche.
Rosa Damascena is said to have similar effects to diazepam in treating insomnia. It can also improve brain function in conditions such as dementia. Additionally, rose essential oil and rose water inspire happiness, strengthen self-confidence, and are known as aphrodisiac agents. Some studies report that Rose essential oil can also help with infertility and libido.
Rose oil can help you restore your skin barrier. Here are some benefits of rose oil for your face.
Soothing irritated skin
Rose essential oil can be a great addition to your beautifying ritual for a glowing and fresh look. Use it well diluted topically to cope with redness and puffiness.
Bye, bye wrinkles
With its ability to restore, heal and protect the epidermis, rose oil can improve the texture of your skin and reduce fine lines. Get that youthful look that you deserve.
Hydrate, hydrate hydrate
If you have dry, sensitive, or dull skin type, using rose oil can improve your condition. Dilute rose oil with sweet almond oil or rosehip base oil to deeply nourish your skin. Enjoy a brighter and more radiant complexion.
Add a few drops of rose oil into your shampoo and raise the hydration bar. You can make yourself a nourishing hair mask by mixing two spoons of cocoa or shea butter with 4-5 drops of rose essential oil. Apply, massage, and wait fifteen minutes before you wash out well.
Now that you are looking to buy the best rose oil, there are some considerations that you need to always keep in mind. Nowadays, you can easily find rose oil at the nearest conventional store. Be aware because some brands use additives to prolong the expiry date or add synthetic essences. The best rose oil is:
Caution
Keep out of reach of kids. Consult your medical doctor if you are pregnant, nursing, or have a chronic condition. Avoid contact with eyes. If you use it topically, dilute well and avoid sensitive areas.
Delve into the world of essential oils with certified aromatherapist Helen Nagle-Smith.
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Sweet almond oil is great for dry and sensitive skin. It has great tolerance, and experts advise it is easily absorbed, without being too heavy on your skin.
