Excellent Aromatherapy Guide

(Rosa centifolia, Rosa damascena, Rosa gallica)

Family : Rosaceae

Description : Rose bushes are so familiar that they need little description. R. centifolia produces pink flowers, R. gallica dark-red flowers and R. damascena pink flowers. The essential oil, also called otto or attar, is steam- or water-distilled from the rose petals.

Countries of origin : France, Bulgaria, Turkey, Morocco, Italy, China

Characteristic : Rose otto varies in color from pale yellow to clear, and is sometimes solid at room temperature, though if you hold the bottle for a few minutes the warmth of your hands turn into a viscous liquid. It has light, sweet, floral top notes with deep, almost spicy, rose undertones. Rose otto blends well with other florals, and also with bergamot, clary sage, sandalwood, rosewood, Melissa, frankincense, palmarosa, patchouli, clove, myrrh and benzoin.

Main therapeutic properties : Anti – depressant, antiseptic, ant-spasmodic, aphrodisiac, emmenagogue, hepatic, nervine, sedative, tonic, uterine.

Rose otto has often been describe as queen of flowers, and form many aromatherapists there is no finer essential oil. Rose comforts the heart in grief and helos the bereaved, as well as those grieving for the end of a relationship. Rose is a tonic of the physical heart and also lifts the spirits, allays anxiety and is generally nurturing. Overall, rose is quite exquisite; it is tender, uplifting and soothing.

Rose is the first choice in treating many of the female reproductive problems, helping with PMT, menopausal symptoms, regulation of periods. It may even help women who have problems conceiving, and there are several anecdotal stories and aromatherapy case histories where rose has seemed to help a woman conceive after other more traditional aids to conception have not succeeded. This is partially explained by the fact that rose has a tonic, purifying effect on the uterus. Its aphrodisiac qualities mirror its physical action, and it helps women to express their femininity and sexuality by alleviating anxiety and nervous tension and inspiring a confident sensuality. Rose also helps those suffering from postnatal depression. It is best used in a massage oils or mood perfume for these conditions, as it is very expensive.

Its valuable skin-care qualities and delicious fragrance make rose a good choice in caring for the skin. Mixed into lotions and creams, it treats mature, dry, inflamed and sensitive skins particularly, but is useful for all skin types. Rose makes a wonderful and special addition to massage oils and bath oils, and is extensively used in mood perfumes. It is gentle enough to use in tiny quantities with children.

Psychologically, rose alleviates sorrow, sadness and disappointment, gently supporting you until the mood shifts. It also lessens anxiety and grief, and strengthens the inner spirit. It is associated with the heart chakra, and it opens and heals the heart to love oneself and others.

Contraindications : avoid in early pregnancy, especially if there is a history of miscarriage.

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