The Amazing Benefits of Rose for the Skin
Rosewater has been being used for beauty and health purposes ever since the early 10th century. Rosewater is believed to have been invented, or the process discovered by Avicenna, a doctor in ancient Persia (Iran.) The Sasanian Imperial Dynasty had many Damask rose (Rosa damascena) gardens and the central fountains were filled with these special roses. The intoxicating scent of rose permeated the surrounding the court. Avicenna eventually worked out a system to turn water and roses into a pleasing and healing elixir. Avicenna's discovery was not only used at the Imperial court but it was used as a profitable trade between empires, as well.
Eventually, it made its way by trade to Rome, and later, Egypt, where Cleopatra was said to have highly valued its many benefits. She is said to have attributed her beautiful complexion to its many qualities. Her legendary beauty baths were said to have been a combination of rose water and milk and honey, and she also used rose water for her signature perfume.
The crusader, Robert de Brie, has been credited with bringing the Damask rose to Europe, and eventually, it made its way to Bulgaria, to what is now known as the Rose Valley. The geologic characteristics of the valley created a rich soil, which, along with the climate, was perfectly suited to the needs of the growing Damask rose. So the area began to specialize in growing this precious crop. Today the Damask rose is considered the finest rose globally, and the Bulgarian region, Rose Valley, is considered its premiere growing location.
The process of making rose water is done by steam distillation. It is made by steeping crushed rose petals in boiling water. The escaping condensation is captured, and rose water is the result. It takes 600-700 roses to produce 1 liter of rose water, which explains the great price of pure Bulgarian rose water.
The many benefits of rose water for the skin cannot be exaggerated. In the first place, it is highly nourishing to the skin: it has vitamins A, C, E, and B, so that the skin is bathed in nutrients when one is using quality rose water products. But perhaps its most nutritional benefit is the high amount of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the skin against cell damage caused by free radicals, which can be very extensive and harmful.
Rosewater is very hydrating, so it makes an excellent moisturizer. In addition, rose water is an astringent, antiseptic, and antibacterial, so it is very healing. It temporarily tightens the skin and minimizes the appearance of large pores. Because it is so calming to the skin, even for susceptible skin, it is commonly used to heal acne breakouts and help prevent them. In addition, it can help reduce temporary redness.
It is also known to help balance skin oils to revitalize and freshen the skin's overall appearance. It is essential for mature skin, as it helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles and can even diminish the look of existing ones.
In addition to all of these many benefits, rosewater has a divine scent. It is calming and soothing to the nervous system; it enhances mood and has a mild antidepressant and anti-anxiety effect.
With all of these fantastic effects, it makes sense to make it part of our daily routine!
This information is provided for educational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
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