Rosewater is truly a nectar of the gods. It can be used in many recipes, from foods to beauty aids, or just be splashed on for a fragrant aura as lovely as a rose! Rosewater also makes a wonderful facial toner for all skin type.
YIELDS: 16 ounces
2 cups rose petals
2 cups distilled water
Dash of sea salt
What you will need: rubber gloves, glass or enamel pot, strainer (cheesecloth or tea strainer), funnel, jar or bottle with sprayer top (optional) to hold 16 ounces
1.To Make: Place the rose petals in a glass or enamel pot, pour in distilled water to just cover. Avoid using a metal pot, as it will react negatively with the oils. Add a dash of sea salt to help bring the essential oils out of the petals. Heat until water is scalding but not boiling. Turn off the heat, add rose petals, and let soak for at least an hour. Strain the petals from the liquid, and use the funnel to pour into your storage container. Wear rubber gloves to help avoid contamination, and give the petals an extra squeeze to get as much of the botanical goodness out of them as possible.
2.To Store: Store in your refrigerator for up to 4 months.
3.To Use: Use as a facial toner or add a cup to your bathwater along with a few fresh rose petals for a delicate rosy bath. Makes a lovely aromatic mist to refresh your skin and your spirits if kept in a bottle with a sprayer top.
SKINCARE SECRETS
Traditional hydrosols, a.k.a. flower waters, are the byproduct of steam distillation of essential oils. Steam passes through the plant material to extract the essential oils; the hydrosol is the condensed steam. Floral waters are much milder than essential oils and have similar therapeutic effects in skin care and in overall mind, body, and spirit wellness.
