Quick summary

Rosa damascena, commonly known as Damask rose, is traditionally used in aromatherapy, herbal medicine, and cosmetics. Current clinical research has explored its effects on mental health symptoms such as anxiety, stress, and sleep quality; sexual dysfunction, especially antidepressant-induced; menstruation-related symptoms including headache and fatigue; acute pain; and gastrointestinal disorders like functional constipation. Evidence includes randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, mainly focusing on aromatherapy and oral intake forms. Some beneficial effects have been observed, but the quality of evidence varies and is often limited by small sample sizes and methodological factors.

What is it

Rosa damascena is a species of rose known for its distinctive fragrance and is widely cultivated for use in perfumes, cosmetics, and traditional herbal remedies. The essential oil and extracts of the flower have been used for their potential therapeutic properties.

Traditional uses

  • Aromatherapy for mood and relaxation
  • Herbal remedies for menstrual discomfort
  • Cosmetic ingredient for skin care
  • Treatment of respiratory and digestive issues

Active compounds

Rosa damascena contains various bioactive constituents, including:

  • Essential oils (e.g., citronellol, geraniol)
  • Flavonoids
  • Phenolic compounds
  • Anthocyanins

Potential benefits with evidence levels

  • Anxiety, Stress, and Sleep (moderate evidence): Systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest aromatherapy with Rosa damascena essential oil may significantly reduce anxiety and stress symptoms and improve sleep quality in adults, including hospitalized cardiac patients. Effects on depressive symptoms appear smaller and inconclusive.
  • Antidepressant-Induced Sexual Dysfunction (low to moderate evidence): Some randomized controlled trials indicate Rosa damascena oil may improve sexual dysfunction caused by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in men with major depressive disorder. Evidence quality is generally low.
  • Menstruation-Related Symptoms (Headache, Fatigue, Bloating) (low to moderate evidence): Systematic reviews report possible reductions in headache, fatigue, and bloating related to menstruation. However, effects on menstrual pain and anxiety were not statistically significant.
  • Acute Pain (low evidence): Meta-analyses suggest oral intake of Rosa damascena may have a non-significant pain-alleviating effect, while topical use shows no clear benefit for acute pain relief in adults.
  • Functional Constipation (preliminary clinical evidence): Some clinical trials show improvements in constipation symptoms and quality of life with Rosa damascena-based formulations; more research is needed.
  • Scar Treatment (preliminary clinical case series): Topical use of rose stem cell exosomes combined with microneedling or laser therapy showed progressive scar improvement in a small case series without reported adverse effects.
  • Post-COVID-19 Sore Throat and Fatigue (randomized controlled trial evidence): Aromatherapy blends including rose oil reduced sore throat and fatigue in adults with post-COVID-19 condition in a controlled trial.

Side effects

Rosa damascena products, particularly essential oils used in aromatherapy and topical applications, are generally well tolerated. Mild adverse effects reported include:

  • Allergic rhinitis
  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Frequent sneezing

No serious adverse events have been consistently documented. However, evidence on safety remains limited.

Drug interactions

There is insufficient clinical evidence to identify specific drug interactions with Rosa damascena. Due to its potential effects on mood and sexual function, caution is advised when used alongside psychotropic medications. Further research is needed.

Who should avoid it

Use caution or avoid Rosa damascena if you:

  • Have known sensitivities or allergies to essential oils or plant products
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless advised and supervised by a healthcare professional, due to lack of safety data

Evidence limitations

Most clinical studies on Rosa damascena involve small sample sizes and vary in methodological quality. Many meta-analyses report substantial heterogeneity. Larger, well-designed, placebo-controlled, and blinded trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety across diverse populations. The long-term safety profile, potential drug interactions, and effects during pregnancy and lactation require further investigation.

References

Last reviewed

June 2024

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before using Rosa damascena or any herbal product, especially if you have existing health conditions, are taking medications, are pregnant, or breastfeeding.