Simple Stovetop Rose Hydrosol for Skin
You don't need anything fancy like a copper still to make your own rose hydrosol. This stovetop method uses basic kitchen equipment and takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Please note that you must use fresh rose petals. Dried ones will not give you the same results.
Ingredients
- 4 to 5 cups fresh, organic rose (Rosa spp). Petals, unsprayed
- Large stockpot with lid
- Heatproof bowl
- Brick, ramekin, or small inverted pot (to elevate bowl)
- Ice cubes
- Water
Instructions
- Place a brick or ramekin in the center of a large stockpot
- Set a heatproof bowl on top (this will collect your hydrosol)
- Put rose petals in the pot around the bowl, not in the bowl. The amount of rose petals you need will vary based on the size of your pot. They should be lightly packed and reach near the rim of your elevated bowl.
- Add water to the pot, just enough to surround petals without spilling into the bowl.
- Place the pot lid upside down on the pot.
- Fill the inverted lid with ice to create condensation.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat.
- As steam rises, it will carry the rose aroma, condense on the cold lid, and drip back into the elevated bowl.
- Simmer for 30-45 minutes, replacing ice as it melts (don’t skip this step!).
- Carefully remove the bowl and let the collected liquid cool.
- Transfer your rose hydrosol into a sterilized glass spray bottle.
- Store in the fridge and use within a few weeks for best freshness.
Notes
To use: Mist this directly on your skin, add a few tablespoons to your bath water, or spray the air around you as a natural air freshener.