| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Rosa damascena |
| Pronunciation | ROHZ AH-toh |
| Common Names | Rose Otto, Damask Rose, Bulgarian Rose |
| Plant Family | Rosaceae |
| Plant Part Used | Flower Petals |
| Extraction Method | Steam Distillation |
| Origin Regions | Bulgaria (Valley of Roses), Turkey, and Iran |
Description
Rose Otto essential oil, distilled from the delicate petals of the Damask Rose (Rosa damascena), is among the most precious and revered aromatics in the world. Its aroma is soft, deeply floral, and ethereal — combining fresh dewiness with a warm honeyed undertone and faint spice. Each drop embodies the essence of thousands of handpicked petals, carefully steam-distilled before sunrise to preserve their fragile aromatic compounds.
Historically, the Damask Rose has symbolized beauty, purity, and the art of refinement. Its use in perfumery, medicine, and cosmetics dates back to ancient Persia and the Byzantine Empire, where rosewater and attars were distilled for royalty. The modern method of steam distillation — perfected in Bulgaria’s Rose Valley in the 17th century — produces what is known as “Rose Otto,” distinguishing it from solvent-extracted Rose Absolute.
In aromatherapy, Rose Otto is celebrated for its harmonizing and soothing properties. It gently supports emotional balance, uplifts the heart, and promotes calm focus. Its aroma also helps ease tension, support restful sleep, and encourage feelings of comfort during stressful periods. Rose Otto’s cooling and anti-inflammatory nature also make it an exceptional addition to skincare formulations for sensitive or mature skin.
Chemically, Rose Otto is remarkably complex — containing more than 300 identified constituents. Its principal components, such as citronellol, geraniol, and nerol, contribute to its floral sweetness and rejuvenating action. Trace molecules like phenyl ethanol and eugenol lend it depth, while the presence of stearoptene (rose wax) gives the oil its tendency to solidify at cooler temperatures — a hallmark of genuine Rose Otto.
Every distillation of Rose Otto represents meticulous craftsmanship and botanical luxury. It remains one of the most elegant and emotionally restorative essential oils available — pure, potent, and timeless in its natural sophistication.
History & Background
| Era / Region | Traditional Use | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Persia | Medicine and perfumery | Distilled for use in healing balms and early perfumes |
| Medieval Europe | Aromatic water and beauty | Rosewater used for cleansing and skin rejuvenation |
| 17th–19th Century Bulgaria | Steam distillation perfected | Establishment of the “Valley of Roses” near Kazanlak |
| Modern Aromatherapy | Emotional and skin balance | Among the most harmonizing and luxurious essential oils |
Over 60,000 blossoms are required to produce a single ounce of Rose Otto — a testament to its rarity and enduring value.
Aroma Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Aroma Type | Rich, floral, dewy, honeyed, slightly spicy |
| Scent Strength | Medium to Strong (Heart Note) |
| Blends Well With | Sandalwood, Geranium, Bergamot, Jasmine, Vetiver, and Frankincense |
Rose Otto imparts smooth elegance and depth to floral, citrus, and resinous blends — serving as a unifying heart note of unparalleled grace.
Chemical Composition
| Compound | Approx. % | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Citronellol | 30–40% | Floral sweetness, antimicrobial, calming |
| Geraniol | 15–25% | Uplifting, skin-regenerative |
| Nerol | 5–10% | Balancing, anti-inflammatory |
| Phenyl Ethanol | 3–8% | Floral tone, emotional harmony |
| Eugenol | 0.5–1% | Subtle spice, antioxidant |
| Farnesol | 0.5–1% | Antimicrobial, skin toning |
This combination provides both soothing and restorative actions — making Rose Otto valuable for both emotional well-being and skincare.
Cautions & Safety
| Type | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Internal Use | Not for internal use. |
| Topical Use | Dilute to 0.5–2%. Non-irritant and gentle on most skin types. |
| Pregnancy / Children | Safe when diluted; often used in maternity and infant blends. |
| Photosensitivity | Non-phototoxic. |
| Storage | Keep in dark glass at room temperature. The oil may solidify below 68°F — gently warm before use. Shelf life: ~5 years. |
Authentic Rose Otto solidifies when cool — a natural property due to its waxy stearoptene content, not an impurity.
Uses & Application Steps
Rose Otto essential oil is valued for emotional balance, skincare rejuvenation, and aromatic harmony.
Aromatic Use
- Diffuse 1–2 drops to elevate mood and promote relaxation.
- Inhale to calm nerves and restore comfort during tension.
- Blend with Frankincense and Bergamot for a serene, elegant diffusion.
Topical Use
- Add to face serums or creams for sensitive or mature skin.
- Use in massage blends for stress relief and soothing the heart area.
- Apply diluted oil to pulse points as a refined natural perfume.
Bath or Body Use
- Combine 2–3 drops with carrier oil or milk before adding to bathwater.
- Mix with Jojoba and Geranium for a deeply hydrating body oil.
- Apply after bathing to lock in moisture and softness.
Further Reading & External Links
| Source | URL |
|---|---|
| AromaWeb — Rose Otto Essential Oil Profile | https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/rose-otto-essential-oil.php |
| Eden Botanicals — Rose Otto | https://www.edenbotanicals.com/rose-otto.html |
| Plant Therapy — Rose Otto Essential Oil | https://www.planttherapy.com/products/rose-otto-essential-oil |
| Florihana — Rose Otto Organic | https://www.florihana.com/us/essential-oils/183-rose-otto-organic-3700343011935.html |
| PubChem — Citronellol Compound Summary | https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/8842 |
Citations & References
- Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier.
- PubChem Database — Citronellol (CID: 8842).
- Eden Botanicals — Rose Otto Data Sheet.
- IFRA Standards, 2024 Update.
- AromaWeb — Rose Otto Essential Oil Profile.
Conclusion
Rose Otto essential oil embodies elegance, purity, and refinement. Its aroma captures the living essence of the rose garden — tender yet powerful, fresh yet timeless. Few oils equal its ability to restore emotional harmony and promote serene composure.
Physically, Rose Otto soothes the skin, promotes cellular renewal, and lends luxurious hydration to facial and body care blends. Its floral chemistry supports relaxation and balance, making it ideal for emotional and physical rejuvenation.
In perfumery and aromatherapy alike, Rose Otto remains the crown jewel of floral distillates — an enduring symbol of botanical beauty, crafted through patience, precision, and respect for nature’s finest bloom.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any essential oil. Conduct your own research by reviewing all citations and references listed above.