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According to legend, rose oil was discovered at the wedding feast of the Mughal princess Noor Jehan. Rose water poured into a canal encircling the garden seperated in the sun’s heat and the bridal couple gathered the droplets of aromatic oil. Since antiquity, the healing virtues of rose oil have been celebrated, but its exquisite scent still cannot be synthetically made; it has about 300 constituents, not all known.
Therapeutic Properties.
Roses have long been associated with Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty, and the oil is still used in beauty products. Avicenna, the 10th century philosopher and physician said that rose oil, “increases the might of the brain and quickens the mind.” As the oil yield from roses is low (0.02%), it is extremely costly. For therapeutic use, oil distilled without heat, ‘phytol’ or by steam, ‘otto’ is best. Oil extracted by solvent, ‘absolute’ is less pure.
Emotions and Mind.
It is an anti – depressant. A 1969 Bulgarian study found that rose oil increases alertness and gives sweeter dreams.
Digestive Problems.
In Bulgaria, it is used as a liver tonic, in China, as a cure for liver stagnation. It also eases hangovers.
Gynaecological Problems.
A soothing, relaxing massage with rose oil helps to ease pre – menstrual tension.
Skin and Beauty.
It is antihistamine and antiseptic. Use in face massage and skin products to calm and uplift. A rose water compress can ease signs of stress in the face by relieving headaches, eye strain and inflammation.
