Rose oil

The rose (Rosa) stands as a symbol of love and is considered the proud queen of flowers. Its scent is unique and difficult to put into words. That is why its oil is used in numerous perfumes, giving them a sensual aroma. Rose oil is rightly among the most precious fragrances we know. It is the essential oil extracted from the petals of the plant.

Hildegards Tipp:

• High-quality rose water for intensive skin and hair care
• A recipe based on 800 years of monastic knowledge
• Used by 4,000 alternative practitioners
• The Best in Natural Medicine: Organic & Vegan

Within the rose family (Rosaceae), roses form the genus from which the family name is derived. They occur both as wild and cultivated roses. Depending on the species, they thrive in temperate and subtropical climate zones. Roses have few temperature requirements; more important is a sunny spot.

The flowers from which the valuable rose oil is distilled primarily come from France, Morocco, Iran, Turkey, and Bulgaria – especially the Rose Valley, where cultivation even gave the region its name. There, the precious flowers are handpicked. Rose oil is mainly obtained from the species:

• Rosa centifolia
• Rosa damascena

It takes 5,000 kg of petals to distill one liter of rose oil. That is why genuine oil, obtained by steam distillation from rose blossoms, is very expensive. One liter of Bulgarian rose oil can cost up to 10,000 euros.

The most important ingredients of rose oil are geraniol and citronellol. Additionally, the oil contains farnesol, nerol, ethanol, linalool, eugenol, citral, phenylethyl alcohol, carvone, eugenol methyl ether, aldehydes, malic acid, and succinic acid.

Rose oil is not only important for the perfume industry. Its valuable ingredients also make it interesting for other uses. The oil is attributed with anti-inflammatory and bactericidal effects.

Rose oil can be used internally – always diluted! – and externally. Applied to the skin, it is considered a beauty all-rounder that improves the complexion while spreading its wonderful scent. Furthermore, rose oil supports wound healing and helps to reduce inflammation. Hair care also benefits from the oil, as it provides moisture and adds shine to the hair.

Rose oil also proves to be a multitasker in natural medicine. It can be used to treat bronchitis and sore throats, as well as gum inflammation and menstrual discomfort. Positive effects on migraines are also reported. Additionally, the oil is said to have mood-enhancing and relaxing effects, justifying its use for stress and anxiety.

During blooming, the rose transforms into a fascinating beauty surrounded by countless myths and poems. Most species have five petals, from which the rose oil is gently extracted through elaborate distillation. The oil itself is a liquid, yellowish to greenish in color.