The other day, while making the lavender massage oil, I remembered that I haven’t posted how to make rose water yet. And I make my own rose water now and then for years. So, I’m posting my rose water recipe today. I think it’s the simplest one I’ve ever come across. And if you’ve been on my blog before, you may know I like simple. :)
You’ll need: washed petals of organically grown and freshly picked roses (I used two handfuls of rose petals.), distilled water (I used 1 cup of distilled water.), a pot with a lid, a tea strainer, a jar and a spray bottle.
Instructions: Place the rose petals in a pot. Add just enough water to cover the petals. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer on a low heat until the petals have lost their color (and the water has taken the color) – it took me about 10 to 15 minutes. Strain the water using tea strainer and pour the freshly prepared rose water into a glass container. Once cool, pour it in a spray bottle and the rose water is ready to use. You can store the remaining rose water in the jar in the fridge and it will last for a few weeks.
I like to spray rose water all over my face (and body) – it cools, moisturizes and soothes my skin and the smell is wonderful. There are many benefits of rose water. It can be used in face masks and creams. Rose water even helps heal wounds, sunburns and some other skin conditions – it soothes irritation after shaving, for example. You can use it as a natural air freshener in your house. You can spray it into drawers or onto the sheets on your bed. You can use it in desserts, drinks and some other recipes as well. And I think it makes a lovely gift.
I use homemade rose water for my skin as well, especially if I have a sunburn.