The standard rose fragrance preferred by perfumers is derived from the petals of Rosa damascena, Damask Rose. To make only two grams of pure rose oil (called attar or otto of rose), at least two thousand hand-picked rose blossoms are required! These flowers are picked before dawn, as they might lose up to 30% of the aromatic oil if picked later in the day. The highest quality rose oil comes from Bulgaria where its distillation has been a major industry since the 17th century.

Recent scientific research on rose oil and its use in preparations has yielded some interesting results. Reportedly, rose oil includes spasmolytic, sedative, local anesthetic, antiseptic, antiparasitic, antiinflammatory, laxative, digestive, hypolipidemic, and cardiotonic properties. An ointment called "Rosalin" was tested against several microorganisms with positive results, particularly the treatment of acute radiodermatitis and late radionecrosis. It also showed some benefit to cancer patients receiving radiation therapy.

Another preparation, "Girostal," containing rose oil and vitamin A, appears to have a blood lipid lowering (hypolipidemic) effect, especially in gallstones and fat degeneration. "Rosanol," capsules of 33 mg pure rose oil, is reportedly effective for some disturbances of the bile-forming function of the liver. Psychological studies indicate that rose oil can induce "sweeter dreams" and increase concentration and rate of work capacity. Safety studies indicate that rose oil has very low oral toxicity m humans. (W.S. Brud and I. Szydlowska, "Bulgarian Rose Otto: Priceless Perfume, Precious Medicine."International Journal of Aromatherapy, Autumn 1991, Vol. 3, No 3, pp. 17-19)

Article copyright American Botanical Council.