Rose Otto

I was reminded yesterday morning in the midst of a blissful cuddle session with my toddler of how important love is for the heart.  Not only in the sense of caring for others but also in caring for oneself.  I have always been a huge promoter of self-care and any practices that allow time for our bodies and minds to relax and unwind.  Essential oils are great tools to use during sessions of massage therapy, yoga and meditation.  We can heighten the experience of any event with a lovely aroma or scent.  With Valentine’s Day just around the corner it seems fitting to talk about heart health, love and Rose Otto essential oil.  The rich and sweet fragrance of Rose has been known as an aphrodisiac for centuries hence its association with Valentine’s Day.  The distilled essential oil is produced mainly in Bulgaria, Turkey and France.  It takes tens of thousands of roses to produce a very small amount of essential oil thus it tends to be quite pricey.  A less expensive form is known as Rose absolute and it is created via a chemical process that yields a similar yet different form of the distilled version.  Rose Otto essential oil is antibacterial, antiseptic, astringent, antiviral, antifungal and antidepressant in nature.  When used in a diffuser the oil will bring a positive energy into the room.  Applied topically to the skin Rose Otto essential oil has the ability to encourage fading of acne scars and stretch marks while simultaneously reducing muscular spasms.  As a tonic this essential oil also helps to strengthen the hair and gums.  Apply Rose Otto to the upper right side of the abdomen to aid in liver health and along the spine to help purify the blood.  Because this particular essential oil is known to regulate hormones I would avoid its use during pregnancy.  Combine with Geranium and Bergamot essential oils for a fabulous heart-healing potion, place a few drops over the heart twice a day.  I cannot say enough about this luscious oil; it truly is full of tenderness and healing.  Come by the spa this Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart for a little bit of self-care featuring our beautiful Rose essential oil and feel the love!

By:Sarah McCallum
Massage therapist
North lake Massage and Skin Care