Rose Otto Essential Oil
Rose Otto Essential Oil has an intense rose fragrance. To create this fresh aroma, it takes over 60,000 roses (approximately 180 pounds) to produce one ounce of rose otto essential oil.
The name Rose Otto comes from 'rosa' and the Greek 'roden', meaning 'red', as the ancient rose was thought to have been crimson in color. In 10th century Persia a physician known as Anicenna used the rose as his first plant to distill and created the essential oil.
In many areas, historically, rose petals were scattered at weddings to ensure a happy marriage, and they are still a symbol of love and purity today. Rose petals and rose scent are often used to aid meditation and prayer.
Selecting the Best Rose Otto Essential Oil
Rose Otto essential oil is typically extracted from the damask rose, Rosa damascena, of the Rosaceae family. The essential oil is also known as Bulgarian and Turkish rose, otto of rose, and attar of rose. It is often clear to pale yellow in color, or may have a faint greenish tint. This oil is produced through steam distillation of freshly harvested flowers, which are picked early in the morning to preserve their delicate aroma. Heat control is crucial during distillation, as excessive heat can compromise the integrity of the oil.
Benefits of Rose Otto Essential Oil
The therapeutic properties of Rose Otto oil are:
- Antibacterial: kills bacteria
- Antidepressant: helps to prevent and treat depression
- Anti-inflammatory: reduces inflammation and swelling
- Antiseptic: inhibits microbial growth
- Antispasmodic: relieves spasms and cramps
- Aphrodisiac: enhances romantic feelings
- Cicatrisant: supports the healing of scars
- Depurative: purifies the blood
- Emmenagogue: supports menstrual health
- Uterine tonic: strengthens the uterus
Skin Care
Rose Otto is a powerful skin rejuvenator. It works especially well in facial treatments. When added to a cream or lotion, it moisturizes, tones, and soothes dry, sensitive, or mature skin. It can help reduce redness, calm inflammation, and even improve the appearance of broken capillaries.
Inhalation and Emotional Uses
Inhaled through vapor therapy or a diffuser, Rose Otto essential oil is deeply calming and emotionally balancing. It's ideal for helping with stress, anxiety, grief, or postpartum blues. It also helps promote restful sleep and spiritual clarity, making it a favorite for meditation and emotional healing rituals.
Blending Rose Otto Essential Oil
This precious oil blends beautifully with:
- Clove
- Geranium
- Jasmine
- Palmarosa
- Patchouli
- Sandalwood
Aromatherapy Recipes Using Rose Otto Essential Oil
Rose Facial Cream
This hydrating and rejuvenating cream is perfect for dry, sensitive, or mature skin.
- 4 ounces jojoba oil
- 3 ounces distilled water (or rose water)
- 1/2 ounce beeswax
- 25 drops Rose Otto Essential Oil
Melt the beeswax in jojoba oil using a double boiler. Slowly add the water while whisking vigorously. Once blended, remove from the heat and add the essential oil drop by drop. Store in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator.
Uplifting Diffuser Blend
- 3 drops Rose Otto essential oil
- 2 drops Sweet Orange
- 2 drops Ylang Ylang
This blend is perfect for uplifting the spirit and promoting emotional well-being. Add to your diffuser and breathe deeply.
Romantic Massage Oil
- 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil
- 3 drops Rose Otto essential oil
- 2 drops Jasmine essential oil
Blend oils in a small bottle and use as a luxurious, romantic massage oil. It's deeply nourishing and enhances intimacy.
Postpartum Bath Soak
- 1 cup Epsom salts
- 4 drops Rose Otto essential oil
- 2 drops Lavender essential oil
Add the oils to the salts, then stir into a warm bath. Soak for 20 minutes to ease tension and support healing.
Safety and Use
Rose Otto oil is non-toxic and non-irritating; however, due to its hormonal effects, it should be avoided during pregnancy. Always dilute before applying to the skin and do a patch test first.