Women all over the world have been using rose water to keep their skin beautiful from as far back as ancient Egypt. The oldest recorded use of rose water was mentioned in tomes, some 3000 years ago. Cleopatra was one of the persons quoted as using it as a beauty aid and rose oil as an aphrodisiac.
The history of rose water and rose oil can be traced from Babylonia, where it was used as a medicine and for rituals to Ancient Rome where it was used as an antiseptic and antibacterial for the skin. They also used it to wash their hands and for bathing to relax. In India, rose water was used in the royal household for a flavoring and is still used in India today. Although, all the people of India use it, not just the royals.
In the middle ages, it was used to deal with stress and depression. Roses have a natural antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It will clean the skin of oil, tone, rejuvenate, and soften mature skin as well as keep the signs of aging at bay. It nourishes the skin since it's loaded with antioxidants and vitamins, including vitamin C, which we all know is needed by the skin to prevent wrinkles.
There are not many skin conditions rose water can't help with whether the skin is irritated, burnt, or chapped. It's one of Mother Nature's natural skin cleanser, toner, astringent and moisturizer. Plus, it helps slow the aging process when you reach that age.
Rose water is one of the treasures you should always keep close at hand for any skin condition. You can use rose water for:
For Skin to:
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Prevent or reduce eye puffiness
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Freshen your face throughout the day
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Soften dry skin
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Natural makeup remover
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Prevent irritation and soothe the skin
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Remove oil and dirt in clogged pores
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Reduces redness from irritated or over-heated skin.
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Stimulate circulation in the skin
For Hair
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Perfect natural setting spray (hair spray)
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Improves blood circulation
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Promotes hair growth
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Conditioner to revitalize your hair
The Body
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Reduces stress
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Powerful mood enhancer
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Tightens capillaries, reduces redness and blotchiness
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Relief from inflammation and gum problems
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Soothing tired and fatigued eyes (works better than cucumbers)
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And reduces thread veins and broken capillaries
Make a rose water spray, mister, or use it every morning for a jolt of freshness to start your day off right.
How to Make Rose Water
The best way is to use fresh rose petals, but if you don't have them, you can use dried rose petals. Use one cup of petals or as much as you have, and 1 cup of water. Heat the water until it just starts to bubble, not boiling, just bubbles. Turn the heat off and add the rose petals. Cover and let sit for 1 hour, then strain into a clean jar or bottle.
NOTE: Do not boil the rose petals or heat the water over 160 degrees. If the water is too hot, it destroys the properties of the rose petals.
You can use it right from the bottle or mix it with some witch hazel or alcohol. Using a cotton ball to wipe your face or any part of your body. It's a great facial toner. You can also add it to any food or drink it as a cold or hot tea to receive all the benefits of rose water.