How To Use Rose Oil To Help Relieve Stress

According to research by the American Psychological Association in 2014, 77% of people in the U.S. regularly experience physical symptoms caused by stress. That's basically almost everyone. I was surprised to learn that only slightly fewer people (73%) regularly experience psychological symptoms caused by stress. Most people complain about the mental and emotional effects of being stressed out, but the body takes just as big of a hit from stress as the mind and mood.

It sounds cliché to tell someone that's all stressed out to stop and smell the roses, but actually, there is some scientific research to back up this bit of folk wisdom. 

There was a study that involved two groups of university students about to take exams. The students in first group were given patches soaked in rose essential oil. They were instructed to inhale the aroma throughout the day. The participants in second group were given unscented patches to wear.

The students' stress levels were measured before, during, and after the exam period by sampling their cortisol levels in saliva.  The students who were not inhaling rose essential oil demonstrated significantly higher levels in salivary cortisol during and after the exam period. The students tasked with inhaling the rose essential oil showed no significant increase or change in cortisol levels. 

So how can you use this information?  Next time you are feeling stressed place drops of rose blend essential oil in a diffuser, or rub moroccan rose roll on on your pulse points.  Then remember to stop and take a moment to smell the roses. Just taking a moment for a few slow deep breaths can work wonders.