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The rose, with its undeniable beauty and intricate structure, is a true masterpiece of plant morphogenesis. This process, which at first glance might seem like simple “growth,” is actually a fascinating dance of physical forces and complex biological interactions. Every petal that unfurls, every curve that defines its corolla, is the result of incredibly sophisticated natural engineering. Plants, in this sense, don’t merely exist; they actively “sculpt” their own form, guided by a biological intelligence we are still exploring (see the article in Nature magazine, published in the May 2025 issue).

But the rose’s enchantment doesn’t stop at its aesthetic perfection. From its complex structure, whose aromatic nuances are an expression of its “hidden life” and vital processes, essential oils are born. These oils are true concentrates of the plant’s soul, volatile essences that capture not only the flower’s fragrance but also its therapeutic properties. In aromatherapy, rose essential oil is a precious treasure, globally recognized for its extraordinary rebalancing, harmonizing, and regenerating properties.

The most famous and prized varieties for essential oil extraction are Rosa Damascena and Rosa Centifolia. Both offer an intoxicating and complex fragrance, capable of evoking deep sensations, but with subtle differences that make them unique.

Rosa Damascena, often considered the “queen of roses” par excellence, is primarily cultivated in Bulgaria, Turkey, Morocco, and India. Its oil is particularly rich in compounds like phenylethanol and citronellol, known for their calming, antidepressant, and skin-regenerating virtues. Its aroma is intense, floral, and deeply sweet.

Rosa Centifolia, or “May rose,” is mainly cultivated in France and Morocco. Its essential oil stands out for a sweeter, honeyed, and slightly spicy fragrance, and is equally valued for its power on emotional well-being and its cosmetic applications, particularly for mature and sensitive skin. Rosa Centifolia has an almost more powdery note compared to Damascena, and can be pleasant for those who love rose but prefer a less intense and direct approach.

These precious oils, obtained through steam distillation of fresh petals—a process that requires an enormous quantity of flowers to produce even a small amount of oil—encapsulate the purest essence of the rose. Their applications in aromatherapy are manifold: from ambient diffusion to create an atmosphere of peace and harmony, to topical use (always diluted in a carrier oil) for massages or skin treatments, to use in aromatic baths. Their impact can range from emotional rebalancing, alleviating stress and anxiety, to supporting skin regeneration.