How to make Rose Water at home

Before we get into the step-by-step guide to making this versatile concoction, lets first look into why you should use Rose Water.

Rose water has been cherished for centuries due to its numerous benefits and versatile applications. Firstly, it boasts a delightful fragrance that can uplift the mood and provide a sense of calm and relaxation. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent choice for soothing irritated skin and reducing redness. Additionally, rose water is rich in antioxidants, which help to strengthen skin cells and regenerate skin tissues, promoting a youthful and radiant complexion.

For those interested in natural skincare, rose water acts as a gentle toner, helping to balance the skin's pH levels and remove excess oils and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. It can also be used to refresh and hydrate the skin throughout the day, providing a quick pick-me-up for tired or dull-looking skin.

Beyond skincare, rose water is a popular ingredient in culinary dishes, adding a subtle floral flavor to desserts, beverages, and even savory recipes. Its aromatic quality can enhance the sensory experience of a meal, making it a beloved addition in various cuisines around the world.

In aromatherapy, the calming scent of rose water is often used to alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of well-being and tranquility. Whether used in beauty routines, cooking, or relaxation practices, rose water remains a timeless and cherished ingredient with a multitude of benefits.

Now for the fun part, making it!

Step 1 Gather Fresh Rose Petals: Choose roses that are free from pesticides and chemicals. Organic roses are ideal. You'll need about 1-2 cups of fresh petals. 3-4 large roses should do.

Step 2 Clean the Petals: Rinse the rose petals gently under cool water to remove any dirt or insects. I like to soak the petal for 30 seconds, give it a good swish with my fingers and then strain the water. 

Step 3 Prepare the Pot: Place a heat-resistant bowl in the center of a large pot. Place a clean cotton town under the base of the bowl to protect your bowl from overheating.  This bowl will collect the condensed rose water. Scatter the rose petals around the bowl inside the pot.

Step 4 Add Water: Pour enough distilled water over the petals to just cover them. Be careful not to add too much water, as this will dilute the rose water. You want just enough water to cover the petals, amount will vary depending on pot size. 

Step 5 Heat the Pot: Turn the stove to medium heat. Let the water simmer gently. The petals will lose their color, and the steam will carry the oils from the petals.

Step 6 Create a Condensation Effect: Invert the lid of the pot and place it on top. This will help the steam condense and drip into the bowl. You can also place ice cubes on the inverted lid to speed up the condensation process. Please do not use a lid with a plastic handle, as this can contaminate your water. A metal, ball like handle works best. 

Step 7 Collect the Rose Water: As the steam condenses on the inverted lid, it will drip into the bowl. This liquid is your rose water! Continue collecting this condensation until all the water from the bottom of the pot has evaporated or your bowl is full. 

Step 8 Cool and Store: Once you've collected enough rose water, turn off the heat and let it cool. Pour the rose water into a sterile glass bottle and store it in the refrigerator. It should last for up to 30 days. Enjoy the natural fragrance and the soothing properties of your homemade rose water!