The use of California rose (Rosa californica) for emotional sensitivity is primarily justified by tradition, specifically within the context of flower essence therapy and folk herbalism. Flower essences, including those made from California rose, have a history in alternative and holistic healing systems, where they are believed to help balance emotional states and provide support for emotional sensitivity, grief, or vulnerability. However, these uses are based on anecdotal reports, personal testimonies, and the philosophies established by practitioners like Dr. Edward Bach and subsequent followers who expanded flower essence repertories to include native North American plants such as California rose.

There is currently no robust scientific evidence or clinical research validating the efficacy of California rose (or its flower essence) in treating emotional sensitivity or related psychological conditions. Mainstream herbal medicine references do not widely document California rose for this purpose, and pharmacological studies are lacking. The rating of 1 reflects that while traditional and folk uses exist, these are not substantiated by controlled studies or biomedical research. As such, its use for emotional sensitivity should be seen as a complementary or symbolic practice rooted in tradition rather than evidence-based medicine.