Things you can do with rose water

Despite its easy availability and cost effectiveness, the virtues of rose water are often underestimated. Rose water occupies an important place in aromatherapy and spa treatment, but it can have many more uses if it is given a place on the dresser or in the kitchen!

The aroma of rose water stimulates our feelings and relaxes the mind. It is a scent that never goes out of style because it is essentially the scent of nature. The Egyptians were the first to discover the versatile uses of rose water. Rose essential oil is said to have aphrodisiac effects and was used by none other than the timeless beauty Cleopatra to seduce her lover Anthony. She bathed in a tub filled with donkey milk and rose petals to give her skin that infamous glow. While in modern times, we may not be able to afford such luxuries, we can certainly accommodate this magical elixir in our health and beauty regimen.

In Indian culture, rose water is used on all auspicious occasions and at altars due to its cleansing properties and calming scent. It is widely used in Indian and Mediterranean cuisine, especially in sweets and desserts due to its reputation as a digestive agent. Many exotic desserts such as Arabian Muhallabia, Greek Pastries and Indian Rasgulla are enhanced by the delicate flavor of rose water. Although it may take an acquired taste, rosewater can be used to flavor common everyday consumables like milk, cereals, fruit juices, and custards (let your imagination take control…).

Preserved rose petals are widely used in Indian “Bread” – a betel leaf stuffed with natural mouth fresheners and flavorings served after meals to aid digestion. A dash of rosewater in lemonade can do wonders for an upset gastric system and can also be used as a refreshing summer drink. Rose water is also a natural anti-inflammatory toner and can be applied as a topical treatment for sunburn and allergic skin. A few capfuls of rosewater in your bath water works just as well as aromatherapy, leaving you smelling fresh and feeling rejuvenated.

Rose water can be mixed with homemade masks and powders to tone the skin and eliminate blemishes. Even on its own, it makes a great natural toner, especially when refrigerated and applied to the face in hot summers. It can be used in combination with different ingredients for different skin types:

For oily or acne-prone skin: Mix rose water with a little fuller’s earth and a few drops of lemon juice for a deep pore cleansing treatment. Leave it on until it dries and wash with cold water.

For dry skin: Mix rose water, milk and honey with a little oatmeal to form a paste and use as a nourishing face mask.

For sensitive skin: If you find your skin rough and itchy even after using the most expensive products, try moisturizing it with a mixture of rose water and glycerin in equal proportions. It soothes the skin and also eliminates blemishes!

For normal skin: Add rose water to any fruit-based pack with a little honey for a natural glow.

The effects and goodness of rose water are enhanced only when it is unadulterated. In fact, the genuine product must be pure and undiluted, with no preservatives, additives, or synthetic ingredients. To get rose water in its purest form, it can also be done at home, although it is a bit time consuming and tedious. Boil rose petals in a pot and distill the steam into a clean, sterilized bottle. Make sure the roses used are organically grown without ant pesticides or chemical fertilizers, as they will eventually end up on your face and stomach.

The rose has always been a symbol of beauty and exoticism. What could be better than being able to absorb their goodness without having a rose garden and in the comfort of your own home? Rose water is one of the few products that are effective, versatile, and won’t burn your pocket. Keep a bottle handy and enjoy its natural and holistic value. Soothe your senses with the scent of roses and lose yourself in their blissful element.