What is Rose Water Spray?
Rose water spray is a fragrant, multi-purpose liquid made by distilling rose petals in water. It has a variety of uses, from skin care to home fragrance. Rose water can be used as a facial toner, hair mist, room spray, and more, thanks to its soothing, hydrating, and aromatic properties.
What Types of Roses are Best for Making Rose Water?
For making high-quality rose water, the following rose varieties are highly recommended due to their strong fragrance and high petal yield:
Rosa Damascena
- This variety is known for its intense, sweet fragrance and is often used for rose oil and rose water production. It flowers in late spring to early summer for up to 8 weeks and can produce up to 300g of fresh roses per day from a single bush.
Rosa Centifolia
- Also known as \”rose de mai,\” this variety has a softer, more delicate fragrance compared to Rosa Damascena. It is still highly valued for its scent and is used in many perfumes. The petals of Rosa Centifolia contain less essential oil than Rosa Damascena but are still effective for rose water production.
How to Make Rose Water Spray at Home
Making your own rose water spray at home is a simple and rewarding process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients and Materials Needed
- Fresh rose petals (preferably from the varieties mentioned above)
- Water
- Alembic still or a steam distillation apparatus
- Collection vessel
Step 1: Harvest Rose Petals
- Pick fresh rose petals early in the morning before the heat rises. For Rosa Damascena, you can collect up to 300g of petals from a single bush per day.
Step 2: Prepare the Still
- If using a traditional 3L alembic still, combine 200g of fresh rose petals with 500ml of water. For a 5L still, use 500g of petals with 1200ml of water.
Step 3: Distillation
- Place the rose petals and water in the still and heat the mixture gently. The steam will pass through the petals, capturing the essential oils and fragrance.
- Collect the distillate in a separate vessel. The process typically yields around 200ml of rose hydrosol (rose water) from the 3L still setup.
Step 4: Cooling and Collection
- Allow the distillate to cool. The rose water will separate from the essential oil, which can be skimmed off if desired.
Storing and Preserving Rose Water Spray
To ensure the quality and longevity of your homemade rose water spray, follow these storage guidelines:
Container Type
- Use dark glass bottles to protect the rose water from light, which can cause degradation of the fragrance and color.
Shelf Life
- Rose water can last for several months to a year when stored properly. If you notice a slightly musty, green, and grassy aroma, let the rose water sit in a cool, dark place for a few months to allow the rose notes to develop fully.
Temperature Specifications
- Store the rose water in a cool place, ideally between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or high temperatures.
By following these steps, you can create a beautiful, fragrant, and versatile rose water spray to enjoy at home or share with others. Enjoy the soothing and refreshing benefits of your homemade rose water!
