Rosa Damascena Oil (Damask Rose Oil)
 
Botanical Name: Rosa Damascena
 
Overview of Rosa Damascena
 
Rosa Damascena, commonly known as the Damask rose, is a deciduous shrub predominantly cultivated in Bulgaria. Other countries such as India, France, Tunisia, Morocco, and several Middle Eastern regions also contribute to its production. The shrub grows up to 2.2 meters tall and has thick, twisted thorns along with stiff bristles on its stem. The leaves are pinnate, typically consisting of five leaflets. This species is categorized into two main types: Summer Damasks and Autumn Damasks. It is often grown in hedgerows to protect the delicate flowers from wind damage and facilitate easy harvesting.
 
Rose Oil: Characteristics and Aromatic Profile
Extracted mainly from rose petals, Rose Oil is a thick, deep red liquid with a soothing fragrance. Its floral aroma is complemented by a subtle sweetness. The oil blends well with various essential oils, including Lavender, Amyris, Black Pepper, Citrus oils, Geranium, and Cedarwood.
 
Extraction Methods
Rose oil is primarily obtained through steam distillation or solvent extraction, both of which help retain its natural properties and preserve its fresh aroma. Steam distillation is the preferred method as it ensures that the oil maintains its therapeutic and pharmacological benefits.
 
Chemical Composition of Rose Oil
The key components of Rose Oil include:
Citronellol (34-55%)
Phenyl ethanol (1.5-3%)
Geraniol and Nerol (30-40%)
Farnesol (0.2-2%)
Stearopten (16-22%)
 
Additionally, the oil contains small amounts of nonanol, linalool, nonanal, citral, carvone, and citrene.
 
Applications of Rose Oil
Medicinal Uses:
Rose Oil is widely used in treating depression and eczema. It also aids in healing frostbite and aging skin while offering relief to menopausal women. Additionally, it acts as a heart tonic with soothing properties.
Cosmetic Uses:
This essential oil is commonly used as a fragrance in cosmetics and skincare products like rose water, massage oils, soaps, and creams. Rose Absolute can be directly applied to the skin as a perfume.
Therapeutic Uses:
Known for its calming properties, Rose Oil helps alleviate stress and improves breathing. It is effective in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
 
Health Benefits of Rosa Damascena Oil
 
Recent studies have highlighted various health benefits of Rose Oil:
Pain Relief: When used as an inhaler with a carrier oil such as almond oil, Rose Oil has been found to reduce pain intensity. Researchers believe its vapors stimulate the brain to release endorphins, commonly known as the "happiness hormone." This makes it beneficial for post-surgical pain management.
Menstrual Pain Relief: A study from 2013-14 confirmed that abdominal massage with Rose Oil, blended with a carrier oil like almond or jojoba oil, can ease menstrual cramps and provide warmth and comfort.
Anxiety Reduction: Rose Oil is often used as a calming agent to promote mental peace. Research shows that when added to massage oil, it significantly reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure, and stabilizes heart rate. Approximately 90% of participants in a study reported feeling relaxed, highlighting the oil’s effectiveness in stress relief.