Eases pain
In a 2015 study, postoperative children inhaled either almond oil or rose oil. The patients in the group that inhaled rose oil reported a significant decrease in their pain levels. Researchers think the rose oil may have stimulated the brain to release endorphins, often called the “feel-good” hormone.
Based on the outcome of this study, the researchers suggested that aromatherapy using rose oil could be an effective way to ease pain in patients who’ve had surgery.
Relief from menstrual discomfort
In a study conducted in 2013, patients with menstrual pain received abdominal massages to relieve their discomfort.
One group was massaged with a carrier oil (almond oil) only, while the other group was massaged with almond oil plus rose oil. The rose oil group reported having less cramping pain following the massage than the almond oil group did.
Rose oil has a relaxing effect on many people.
In one study, researchers applied rose oil to the skin of each participant, and then measured its effects on the most common symptoms of anxiety. Blood pressure, heart rates, breathing rates, cortisol levels, and blood oxygen levels all decreased. The subjects also reported feeling much more relaxed after the oil treatment.
Another study involving over 100 women who were giving birth found that rose oil lowered their anxiety levels during delivery.
Eases depressive symptoms
A number of clinical studies have found that rose oil helps to improve the symptoms of depression. In a 2012 study, a small group of postpartum women underwent treatment for depression.
One group received aromatherapy in addition to conventional medical treatments. The women who used aromatherapy improved significantly more than women who used conventional medicine alone.
Studies have also found that rose oil stimulates the release of the chemical dopamine. Researchers believe this chemical plays a pivotal role in helping to relieve the symptoms of depression.
Research experts advise that you opt for aromatherapy massage to treat depression rather than inhalation. It may take as many as eight weekly sessions before you notice a change in the depressive symptoms, so you may need to exercise a little patience.