Uses for Rosewater

Rosewater is a fragrant liquid that is made when rose petals are soaked, distilled with steam and the rose oil is removed. Rosewater has a pleasant smell, as well as antiseptic properties, and has been used therapeutically since the 10th century.

Skin Care

• Rose Magazine indicates that Rosewater is a natural moisturizer appropriate for normal, dry and sensitive skin, and can be sprayed on, applied with a cotton ball or mixed with creams. It balances the pH level of the skin and helps diminish redness.

Food

• According to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden Plant and Gardens News, Rosewater may be used in traditional Middle Eastern meat dishes. It can also be used to sweeten desserts, candies and drinks; mango lassi, a sweet yogurt drink, often contains rosewater.

Fragrance

• Because of its pleasant scent, rosewater may be used as a perfume or a room freshener. The gardening website Rose-Works claims that in ancient Baghdad, rosewater was mixed with brick mortar to improve the smell of buildings.

Aromatherapy

• Rosewater may be used in aromatherapy to balance emotions and soothe nerves. Rosewater is also said to improve decision-making and increase the capacity for love.

Rituals

• According to Food-Travels.com, Rosewater is used during certain Islamic and Hindu cleansing rituals. Rosewater is also a common ingredient in Wiccan love spells.