Uses for Rose Oil

Although roses are often given to show love and affection, they have more than just symbolic value. In their essential oil form, roses provide many physical and emotional benefits. Aromatherapist and author Patricia Davis wrote in "Aromatherapy: An A-Z" that essential rose oil was most likely one of the first essential oils discovered and utilized for its positive physical and emotional affects.

Help During Delivery

In aromatherapy, rose oil is frequently used for conditions related to the reproductive system and pregnancy--and not without good reason. The physical and emotional stress of labor easily leads to anxiety. Essential rose oil helps reduce it. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, many clinical studies show that using essential rose oil during delivery lowered women's fear and anxiety during labor. The studies also showed that rose oil's use reduced the amount of pain medications needed during childbirth.

Respiratory Aids

Julia Lawless, aromatherapist and author of "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils," wrote that rose oil's properties include a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. The book "375 Essential Oils and Hydrosols", by aromatherapist Jeanne Rose, recommends using essential rose oil to treat respiratory infections and reduce asthma symptoms. Lawless suggests using rose oil in steam inhalations or vaporization for the best results.

Nausea

Essential rose oil also works to help lessen nausea. "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils" says that rose oil acts as an antispasmodic--it reduces muscles spasm and cramping--and provides a general soothing affect on the stomach. Both qualities make it a good option for helping you with nausea. Lawless says that nausea responds best to either light abdominal massage with the rose oil or to vaporization in the air.