Rose oil - what it is and how it works
Rose essential oil has many useful properties such as antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic and antiviral agent. Its properties of an aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, choleretic agent are also known.
There are two main types of roses that are valued in the cosmetic industry: Rosa damascena [ref. 1] and Rosa centifolia [ref. 2] The essential oils of both roses have different health benefits thanks to the substances contained in them. Rose essential oil consists of hundreds of components such as citronellol, carvone, citronellyl acetate, eugenol, ethanol, farnesole, stearpoten, methyl eugenol, nerol, nonanol, nonanal, phenylacetaldehyde, phenylmethyl acetate and phenyl geraniol. [Ref. 3] They all contribute to the overall health of the body in different ways and are therefore equally important for the beneficial effects of the oil.
7 Amazing Benefits of Rose Oil
Anti-inflammatory properties of rose oil
Rose essential oil is a good remedy for inflammation of any kind. It works well for both internal and external inflammations. It can relax muscles and its sedative nature helps to calm the body and restore it back to normal without an inflammatory process.
Rose oil helps with inflammation caused by fever, microbial infections, indigestion, arthritis, ingestion of poisonous substances, dehydration, gout and rheumatoid arthritis. [ref. 4]
Rose oil to relieve pain
In a 2015 study, children in the postoperative period inhaled either almond oil or rose oil. Patients in the group who inhaled rose oil reported a significant reduction in pain levels. Researchers believe that rose oil may have stimulated the brain to secrete endorphins, providing this effect.
Based on the results of this study, the researchers suggest that aromatherapy with rose oil may be an effective way to relieve pain in patients who have undergone surgery. More research is needed for more conclusions. [ref. 5]
In another study conducted in 2013, women with menstrual pain had a massage to relieve discomfort. One group massaged only with base oil (almond oil), while the other group massaged with a combination of almond and rose oil. The rose oil group reported that there were fewer cramps after the massage than the almond oil alone group. [ref. 6]
Antibacterial and antifungal properties of rose oil
The researchers found that an essential oil distilled from roses can be effective against a wide range of microbes that cause infections. This includes E. coli, as well as some strains of bacteria that can cause staphylococcal infections (Staphylococcus) and streptococcus in the throat (Streptococcus).
In addition, the study found that rose oil is effective against Candida albicans, which can cause fungal infections in the mouth, intestines and vagina. [ref. 7]
Rose oil in skin care
Rose essential oil can help control skin texture and many skin diseases associated with keratinocytes differentiation. Keratinocytes are the protectors that protect your skin from heat, UV radiation, water loss, pathogenic bacteria and parasites. Diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis occur when there is differentiation of distribution in keratinocytes.
Rose essential oil may be beneficial in these cases. It causes scars and traces of acne and other skin imperfections to fade quickly. This includes the fading of stretch marks, scarring from surgery and others related to pregnancy and childbirth. Much of this action is due to the antioxidant activity of rose essential oil, which stimulates the healing processes of the skin. [ref. 8]
Rose oil as an aphrodisiac
Two studies have found that inhaling rose oil increases sexual desire and sexual satisfaction among men and, to a lesser extent, women. One study involved male participants with major depressive disorder who were taking antidepressants, and the other study included female participants with the same condition and also antidepressants. [ref. 9]
Rose oil promotes hair growth
It is known that rose oil, when used in conjunction with another carrier oil (or base oil), gives shine to the hair. In addition, it acts effectively to promote hair growth and makes the scalp healthier with its antifungal properties. You can use it with tea tree oil to relieve an itchy scalp, for example.
Rose oil can prevent excessive bleeding
This property of rose essential oil can be very useful for people suffering from hemorrhages after injury or surgery. Rose oil accelerates blood clotting and coagulation and stops excessive bleeding. Always apply after consultation or recommendation of a doctor.
Safety tips for the use of rose oil
Essential oils are powerful and highly concentrated. If you intend to inhale essential oil of any kind, place a few drops in a diffuser instead of inhaling directly from a bottle or bottle.
If you apply it directly to your skin, first mix a few drops of rose oil with another base oil to avoid skin irritation. Rose oil, like many other essential oils, should not be swallowed.
Some essential oils can be harmful to pregnant and lactating women (and their babies). Keep this in mind if it applies to you.
How to use rose oil
Bath with rose oil
Rose oil, as part of the daily bath, has a great therapeutic effect and helps relieve daily stress. Here's how you can use it:
- Take about 10 drops of rose oil
- Add it to any carrier oil of your choice
- Add the mixture to a bath of warm water
- Take a bath as usual.
Anti-anxiety rose oil infusion
Rose oil is useful for people who suffer from stress, that is, for almost everyone, and for people with anxiety disorders. Its use is known to lead to the release of dopamine and endorphins, which are known to calm nerves and elevate mood.
We recommend that you consult a doctor first, especially if you are allergic, have any medical condition or sensitive skin. Although natural oils generally have no negative effects, it is important to know your body and mind well before proceeding to alternative therapy and use of essential oils.
In massage oil
Massage has many benefits, including improving blood circulation to help sore muscles and relieve tension. And when massage is combined with aromatherapy, a wonderful synergy is obtained. With 2 tablespoons of base oil and 10-12 drops of rose oil, you can make the necessary mixture for body or face massage.
