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.

• Also reduces menstrual cramp pain
• Decreases anxiety and stress
• Antibacterial, antifungal properties
• Has been known to stimulate the sex drive
• Eases depressive symptoms

Rose oil is usually quite expensive and is highly potent. It should be diluted whether you plan to inhale it or use it on your skin.

• To make a rose oil bath, add 10 drops of rose essential oil to a carrier oil, then add to a warm tub. Essential oils should always be diluted in a carrier oil before adding to water.
• To make a foot bath, add a few drops of diluted rose oil into the foot bath and soak your feet for 10 minutes.
• To treat anxiety, stress, or depression, you can either inhale rose oil using a diffuser or dab it lightly on your chest, neck, and wrists. Be sure to blend it with a carrier oil first like coconut, almond, or jojoba oil before it touches the skin. You may also benefit from a rose oil massage, in which the rose essential oil is added to a carrier massage oil.
• Before using any alternative or complementary treatment, talk to your doctor about any current medical conditions, possible drug interactions, or side effects.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommends that you keep these tips in mind when using essential oils around pets:

Don’t apply essential oil directly to your pet. Putting essential oil directly on your pet’s coat or skin can be toxic. Symptoms of overexposure include an unsteady or wobbly walk, lethargy or depression, and a drop in body temperature. If your pet ingests essential oils, you may also see vomiting and diarrhea.

Keep pets out of rooms where you’re using a diffuser. This is especially important if your pet has a history of respiratory issues. Birds are particularly sensitive to respiratory issues, so avoid diffusers around them.
Keep your diffuser in a place where pets can’t get to it. If a diffuser is knocked over, the spilled liquid could be lapped up or absorbed through tender paw pads.