Although research on rose oil's health effects is limited, studies suggest that the essential oil may be useful for the following:
1) Stress and Anxiety Relief
In a 2009 study of 40 healthy volunteers, scientists found that those who took in rose oil through their skin felt more relaxed than those who were treated with a placebo. Study members who received rose oil also had a greater decrease in breathing rate and blood pressure than those who received the placebo.In an earlier study, published in 2004, inhalation of rose oil was found to lower anxiety in a group of rats.
2) Menopausal Symptoms
For a 2008 study of 52 women undergoing menopause, researchers assigned 25 participants to weekly massages with several essential oils (including lavender and jasmine oils in addition to rose and rose geranium oils). After eight weeks, the study members who received massages reported a significantly greater improvement in menopausal symptoms (such as hot flashes) than those who weren't massaged. However, the study authors were unable to attribute the positive effects to aromatherapy, massage, or the combination of the two therapies.
3) Menstrual Cramps
Topically applied rose oil (when combined with lavender and clary sage oils) may be effective in decreasing the severity of menstrual cramps, according to a 2006 study of 67 female college students. For the study, a blend containing one drop of rose, two drops of lavender, one drop of clary sage, and 5 cc of almond oil was applied in form of an abdominal massage.
By Fifth Avenue Thai Spa
