Rose water: definition
For rose water s "means an aqueous solution obtained from the steam distillation of rose petals, during the extraction process of the essence. Typically, the petals of Gallic rose, sometimes replaced by those of Rosehip or Damask rose. In cosmetics, rose water is widely used as a refreshing, invigorating, soothing and astringent.
Steam distillation
As we know, steam distillation is an extraction method widely used to extract volatile and sensitive active ingredients, therefore thermolabile, of medicinal plants. In this case, the matrix rich in active ingredients is represented by the rose petals: in order not to degrade the active ingredients contained in them, the only solvent capable of extracting them is water, which breaks down the plant systems of the rose petals. thanks to the temperature.
Rose water and natural peeling
In the world of natural cosmetics, rose water is the main ingredient to purify and cleanse the skin of the face: by mixing sugar, honey and rose water in equal parts, a natural product is obtained which is particularly suitable for face peeling. The mixture, after being applied to the skin and massaged thoroughly, should be rinsed with warm water.
Rose water and seborrheic dermatitis
As it is known, seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic-relapsing disease that mainly (but not only) affects the scalp: the disease manifests itself with itching, discomfort, inflammation / irritation, the appearance of greasy scales and yellow crusts. in order to alleviate this considerably unsightly condition, as well as annoying, the application of a tonic based on rose water (to purify the skin), associated with targeted and specific ointments for the disorder, is very useful. Proper cleaning of the face with a mild soap is essential to "prepare" the skin for the treatment against seborrheic dermatitis; after that, it is recommended to pat the area with a cotton swab soaked in rose water, purifying the skin and toning. Finally, targeted herbal products can be used, formulated for example with echinacea (Echinacea pallida), antibacterial and antimicrobial drug, St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), with healing-vulnerary properties, and borage oil (Borago officinalis), useful to soothe the itching. It should be noted that, in the case of chronic or medium-sized seborrheic dermatitis, the doctor's opinion is still essential.
In general, rose water is therefore widely used to purify the skin before a treatment against skin diseases; to give other examples, the skin can be purified with rose water-based tonics even before treatments against eczema. or psoriasis.
Rose water, dark circles and acne
The rose water packs, applied directly on the periorbital area (around the eyes) are particularly useful in the treatment of dark circles and rosacea. Used since the past, rose water is also useful against wrinkles.
For its known astringent properties, rose water, applied locally, seems to have excellent results also in the treatment against edema and acne. We recommend the daily application of two cotton pads soaked in rose water (application time: 15 minutes ).
Homemade preparation
It is not difficult to prepare rose water: about 130-150 rose petals (not chemically treated) and a liter of water, preferably distilled, are needed. After bringing the water to a boil, immerse the petals in it for 15-30 minutes. Filter everything and store for 20-40 days in a resealable container, preferably with dark walls (to prevent light from degrading the components), and in fridge.
Variation: it is recommended to gather the rose petals in gauze or special bags, before immersing them in boiling water.
Rose water can also be obtained by cold maceration of the petals: after having gathered all the petals in a sterile gauze, immerse them in a container with demineralized water (cold), avoiding that the gauze touches the bottom of the container. the container is closed and the rose petals left to soak for a whole night. To further embellish the tonic and make it more fragrant, it is advisable to add a few drops of essential rose oil, in addition to talc, which is useful for absorbing the oil. After allowing another night to pass, the liquid should be filtered and stored in the refrigerator. .
This second extraction method - cold maceration - is more useful than infusion, since in this way a tonic is obtained embellished with many astringent active ingredients. In this regard, rose water obtained by cold maceration of the petals. it is particularly suitable for cleansing impure and oily skin.
It should be pointed out that rose water is indeed indicated for delicate and impure skins, but particularly sensitive subjects must pay close attention since the tonic could contain potentially allergenic compounds, therefore poorly tolerated, and cause unexpected allergic reactions.
Vinegar and rose petals
Some texts recommend replacing the soaking water for rose petals with white vinegar: this “tonic” seems to be particularly beneficial for very oily skin. In this case, the maceration of the rose petals must last for a longer period (even 15 days).
Rose petals and drink
With rose petals you can also prepare a decoction to drink: in this case, the properties of the rose are exploited as astringent and tonic. To obtain a disinfectant effect, we recommend the infusion of rose petals: in this way a particularly pleasant, aromatic and refreshing rose water is obtained. The rose water, in the form of an infusion, is also used to reduce symptoms related to heavy menstruation, bleeding gums, diarrhea, hyperhidrosis (profuse sweating) and pharyngitis. The infusion obtained with rosehip petals looks like a excellent tea substitute; moreover, it has been observed that the usual use (1 or 2 times a day) of rose water (infusion) helps to dissolve kidney stones in those patients who are affected [taken from The medicine of the simple, by A. Formenti].
Rose water and tradition
In Afghanistan, roses and their petals are widely exploited for the production of rose oils and rose water, thanks to their high value on the international market. However, roses and their products belong to the Afghan tradition, as well as to everyday life.
According to some sources, rose water is a mild antidepressant able to give optimism, drive away anxiety and release mental pain: however, these properties have not been properly demonstrated.
Rose water in brief »
