1. Why is Steam Distilled Rose Otto the best?
Pure rose oil is made in several countries. Turkish and Bulgarian steam distilled pure rose oil are number one in the world for several reasons. For centuries people in those countries have been specializing in the extraction of Pure Rose Essential oil. Their climate is such that the rose petals do not over produce wax for protection from the rays of the sun. In other climates, harsh or too little sun, will produce inferior rose petals that contain either too much or too little wax. Other environmental factors, such as soil and water delivery, botany skills combined with time honoured cultivation techniques, ensure prime rose petals for production.
2. Why is Rose Otto so expensive?
It takes approximately 4000 kilograms of rose petals to produce 1 kilogram of pure steam distilled rose otto (Rosa Damascena) essential oil.
3. What is the difference between Bulgarian Rose Otto and Rose Absolute?
The Bulgarian Rose Otto is steam distilled and contains only the natural essences of the rose petals. These oils are from the actual petals and are not exactly oily, but since they float on top of the rosewater, it is called a rose. Rose Otto ages beautifully if stored properly. Rose Absolute is extracted using solvents (typically Hexane). The fragrance resembles the typical Rose scent you find in popouri and fragrance rose smell. Rose Otto absolute should never be used in skin preparation. The best oil you can buy for use on skin is pure 100% steam distilled Rose Otto (Rosa Damascena).
4. Why does Rose Otto solidify at times?
In a slightly cool temperature, steam distilled Rose Essential Oil will solidify slightly. The natural waxes in the oil begin to set and seems to become slightly solid. This is a good sign that the oil you have is pure and not stretched with other chemicals to make more volume of the oil. It will melt quicly if you hold bottle and use the heat in your hand to warm it.
5. Why does the scent of the Rose Otto change between different bottles?
Different growing practices and environmental conditions (see 1 above) will produce a different scent. Sometimes the fragrance is flowery, greenish, rosy, lemony, fresh etc. but they are all extraordinary and beautiful in their own way. With pure Steam Distilled Rose Otto (Rosa Damascena), the plant extract smells different depending on growing practices, part of the world it was grown in, quality of the soil and things of that nature.
6. Can you take Steam Distilled Rose Otto internally?
No. Rose Otto, like other essential oils is a highly concentrated plant essence and should not be taken orally. Rose essences are added to food items in minute amounts (usually by adding real Rose Water -- the distillate from the extraction process) and skilled people manufacture the preparations.
7. Should I apply Rose Otto directly onto my skin?
It is best to always dilute Rose Otto with jojoba or another vegetable oil. Always apply Rose Otto (and all essential oils) sparingly on your wrist to check for any reaction. Wait for 12 to 24 hours to see if you have a reaction to it before using it widely on your body.
8. Where do I get more information about Bulgarian Rose Otto?
Feel free to write me at the email address on the left. I'm happy to answer any questions.