Rose Absolute

The origin of lavender essential oil:

Although lavender is native to Mediterranean countries, it can be found growing all over the world. In fact, Bulgaria is known to be the world's largest producer of lavender today.

Bulgarian Rose absolute is produced from Bulgarian Rose concretes and it is prized ingredient in the perfume industry, renowned for its rich, floral aroma with sweet and spicy undertones.

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Short summary description of the oil:

  • Categories/Mainstream: Absolute
  • Scientific Name: Rosa damascena
  • Botanical Source: Rosa damascena
  • Extraction Method: Solvent extraction
  • H.S code : 33012942
  • CAS number: 8007-01-0
  • Alternative CAS number: 90106-38-0
  • EC number: 290-260-3
  • Scent: rich, floral aroma with sweet and spicy undertones.
  • Country of origin: Bulgaria

The origin of rose absolute

Rose absolute is a high-quality aromatic product derived from Rosa damascena, also known as Kazanlak rose, and is obtained through specialized extraction processes widespread throughout the country. This essential extract is invaluable due to its incomparable aroma, carrying notes of delicacy and elegance.


Technological process

The processing of rose petals at the Galen-N production base in the village of Zelenikovo is carried out as of 2024 across three production sites - two distilleries, which respectively extract essential rose oil and floral water, and an extraction zone for obtaining concrete from the rose petals. The concrete, a total extract with a non-polar solvent, undergoes an additional seven-stage exhaustive extraction with ethyl alcohol under specific conditions. The resulting mixture of solvent and rose absolute is filtered twice and subjected to double purification of the solvent under atmospheric and vacuum conditions. The resulting product is filtered and packaged in aluminium containers of various capacities, which comply with food standards.


Certification and standardisation

  • Produced according to ISO 9001:2015 and GMP of cosmetic regulations.

Properties

Rose absolute, derived from the petals of Rosa damascena, boasts a diverse range of applications across various industries, thanks to its unique fragrance profile and therapeutic properties. Below is an in-depth overview of its multifaceted uses:

Perfumery and Fragrance Industry:

Rose absolute stands as a prized ingredient in the perfume industry, renowned for its rich, floral aroma with sweet and spicy undertones.

Its inclusion in perfumery formulations dates back centuries, and it remains a cornerstone in creating luxurious fragrances that evoke elegance and romance.

Reference: Perfumery: Practice and Principles by Robert R. Calkin, J. Stephan Jellinek.

Aromatherapy and Cosmetics:

In aromatherapy, rose absolute is highly valued for its calming and mood-enhancing properties, believed to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression.

It finds extensive use in cosmetics and skincare products due to its moisturizing, soothing, and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.

Scientific studies have explored its potential in dermatology for conditions such as acne, eczema, and aging skin.

Reference: Aromatherapy: Science, Chemistry, and Essential Oils by Maria Lis-Balchin.

Medical and Therapeutic Uses:

Traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine incorporate rose absolute for its purported health benefits, including its ability to balance emotions and promote overall well-being.

It is often utilized in massage oils, baths, and inhalations for its relaxation and stress-relieving effects.

Research indicates its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, suggesting therapeutic applications in various ailments.

Reference: Medicinal Plants of the World by Ben-Erik van Wyk, Michael Wink.

Food and Beverage Industry:

While less common compared to other applications, rose absolute occasionally features in gourmet cuisine and beverages for its unique floral flavor profile.

It lends its delicate aroma and taste to specialty desserts, confectioneries, beverages, and even savory dishes in culinary creations.

Reference: The Flavor Bible by Karen Page, Andrew Dornenburg.

Herbal and Traditional Remedies:

Various cultures utilize rose absolute in herbal remedies to address a range of ailments, including digestive issues, menstrual discomfort, and headaches.

It may be administered in the form of tinctures, teas, poultices, or infused oils to harness its aromatic and potential medicinal properties.

References: The Complete Herbal Handbook for the Dog and Cat by Juliette de Baïracli Levy.

Research and Publications:

Extensive scientific research has been conducted on Rosa damascena and its constituents, including rose absolute, elucidating its chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and potential applications.

Studies delve into its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and psychopharmacological properties, paving the way for further exploration in various fields.

"The therapeutic potential of Rosa damascena mill. in treatment of depression" (Boskabady et al., 2011).

"Chemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of rose extracts" (Miguel et al., 2010).

"A review on phytochemistry and therapeutic uses of Rosa × damascena mill." (Boskabady et al., 2011).


Main chemical constituents:

Citronellol

monoterpene hydrocarbon possessing antimicrobial, antiplatelet, antispasmodic properties, and is believed to possess anti-inflammatory effects.

Geraniol

оne of the most commonly encountered aromatic compounds in perfume compositions possesses antimicrobial, antiplatelet, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory properties, and contributes to the relaxation of smooth musculature.

Nerol

substance responsible for the floral and fresh scent of essential rose oil, possessing the ability to protect cells from free radicals in the human body and induce relaxation.

Phenylethyl alcohol

primarily used in the fragrance and cosmetic industries due to its pleasant rose-like scent, some studies suggest potential health benefits like anti-inflammatory antioxidant action.

 


 

Physicochemical characteristics

Indicators: Characteristics and norms:
Appearance Clear transparent liquid
Color Orange red
Odor Specific of rose
Relative density, kg/dm3 0,950 - 0,995
Refraction index 1,490 - 1,515
Acid Number mgКОН/g < 11
Name of components - GC – MS/ FID: Norm,%:
Ethanol 2,00
Citronellol 7.5-18.5
Garaniol 2.5-7.5
Nerol  
Nonadecan  
Phenylethyl alcohol 45 - 71
Nonadecen  
Methyl eugenol  
Eugenol