Rose damascena for the treatment of anxiety, depression, and stress in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of treatment response versus dosage in controlled trials

A team of scientists published a study in 2021 entitled “Rosa Damascena Mill for treating adults’ anxiety, depression, and stress: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials”. They set out to find out whether rose damascena can help in dealing with some of the most common problems of modern man – anxiety, depression and stress.

To this end, scientists combined data from a number of clinical studies in which rose damascena was used in different forms – in the form of tea, capsules, aromatherapy or extract. This gives a more complete and reliable picture of how this natural gift can affect the emotional state.

The results are promising. People who have taken rose damascena products report a reduction in momentary anxiety – that tension and anxiety that each of us experiences on busy days or before important events. In addition, there is relief of symptoms of depression and a decrease in the feeling of stress. Interestingly, the effect is stronger on states that change in daily life than on the enduring tendency to anxiety as a personality trait.

Regarding dosage and method of administration, the authors of the analysis summarize different practices from the included clinical studies. Rosa damascena has been used in the form of capsules or tablets with doses between 250 and 1,000 milligrams per day, with the duration of administration varying from two weeks to several months. In other cases, aromatherapy with rose oil is applied – inhaling the aroma for 15–30 minutes daily has shown a beneficial effect on anxiety and stress. There are also studies with tea or water extract of petals, which also give positive results. Despite the variety of forms, the general trend is that Rosa damascena can be effective even at relatively low doses, but there is still no established universal standard.

In summary, scientific analysis shows that damask rose can be particularly valuable in situations of increased tension – for example, during periods of stressful work, exams, major changes or emotional stress. The aroma of the rose, the infusion of its petals or the intake of extracts can bring that moment of peace that we often need to feel more balanced and in harmony with ourselves.

Bulgaria, with its world-famous damask rose, has the unique opportunity to offer high-quality products that support mental well-being. If these scientific data are confirmed by Bulgarian research, our country could consolidate its place as a leader not only in the perfume industry, but also in the development of natural remedies for health and balance.

Source:
Rasooli, T., Nasiri, M., Kargarzadeh Aliabadi, Z., Rajabi, M. R., Feizi, S., Torkaman, M., Keyvanloo Shahrestanaki, S., Mohsenikhah, M., Rezaei, M., & Abbasi, M. Rosa Damascena Mill for treating adults’ anxiety, depression, and stress: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Phytotherapy Research, 2021. doi:10.1002/ptr.7243