Bois De Rose Oil Drug Interactions, Uses, Safety & More

Bois de rose oil, also called rosewood oil, is an essential oil made by steam-distilling the wood of Aniba rosaeodora, a tree that grows in the Amazon rainforest of South America. The name is French for "rosewood," though the tree is not a true rose.

The oil has a sweet, woody, slightly floral smell. It has long been used in perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics. In aromatherapy, people use it for its scent and for a feeling of relaxation. Because the tree has been heavily harvested, it is now considered threatened, and supplies are limited and tightly regulated in some places.

People use bois de rose oil mostly for its fragrance, for skin care, and in aromatherapy to help them feel calm. Some traditional and marketing claims also suggest it can fight germs or ease headaches.

It is important to be honest about the evidence: there is very little high-quality human research on bois de rose oil for any health condition. Some laboratory studies suggest the oil and its main compound may slow the growth of certain bacteria, fungi, or even cells in a test tube, but these findings do not prove it works or is safe to use as a medicine in people. Any relaxation effect is mostly tied to the pleasant scent, which is hard to separate from a placebo response.

In short, evidence is insufficient to recommend bois de rose oil for treating any specific illness.

The main active compound in bois de rose oil is linalool, a naturally occurring alcohol also found in lavender and many other plants. Linalool is responsible for much of the oil's floral-woody smell.

In laboratory and animal studies, linalool has shown possible antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and mild calming effects. These results come from cells and animals, not from large human trials, so they should be viewed as early clues rather than proof. We do not fully understand how, or whether, these effects happen in the human body when the oil is inhaled or applied to the skin.

Like all essential oils, bois de rose oil is highly concentrated and should be treated with care. Never swallow it — essential oils can be toxic if taken by mouth. For skin use, it should always be diluted in a carrier oil (such as jojoba or coconut oil) to lower the risk of irritation.

People with sensitive skin, eczema, or known allergies to fragrances should be cautious and do a small patch test first. Keep the oil away from the eyes and out of reach of children and pets.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: there is not enough reliable safety information, so it is best to avoid bois de rose oil during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. When in doubt, talk to a pharmacist or doctor before use.

When properly diluted and used on the skin, the most common problems are skin irritation, redness, or allergic reactions, especially in people sensitive to fragrances. Inhaling strong amounts may cause headache or nausea in some people.

Undiluted oil can burn or irritate the skin and eyes. Swallowing essential oils can cause serious poisoning and should never be done. Stop using the oil and seek care if you notice a rash, trouble breathing, or other signs of an allergic reaction.

There is no established or standardized medicinal dose for bois de rose oil. It is generally used only externally (in diluted skin blends) or for inhalation in aromatherapy, not taken internally.

If you choose to use it on the skin, follow the product label and dilute it well in a carrier oil. Because products vary widely in strength and quality, it is wise to check with a pharmacist or doctor before using it, especially if you have a health condition or take other medicines.