Benefits of Rose Water: Why It Should Be Part of Your Daily Skincare Ritua
Rose water is the sweet-scented liquid prepared by the distillation process of the fresh rose petals. Earlier, this process was done using Copper metal instrument also known as Bhapka Yantra in Ayurveda. The picking of the rose should be done at early morning time even before the buds get open. This helps in preservation of natural aroma and gives more scent to the oil.
Health benefits of Rose water
Many of the researches have shown that the rose extracts are having anti-viral, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities which mainly depends on the method of production and concentration of the rose oils in it.
In the year 2020 a research study found that the rose water does the skin whitening and has anti-wrinkle effects. It works as anti-oxidants which reduces the aging process of skin.
In another research article it was shown that the ethanolic extract of R. damascena contains phenolic compounds which is having anti-oxidant properties.
Rose water extract was used as Sun protecting agent. The phytochemical analysis showed the presence of Tannins, Triterpenoids, Saponins, Flavonoids and Fixed oils. Rose contains beneficial phenolic compounds like anthocyanins which are naturally occurring pigments in flowers.
Replenishes hydration
Rose water is perfect for dry and dull skin as its main benefit is the hydration it provides. It acts as a natural humectant means it retains or preserves the moisture into your skin. It can cool down your skin in hot-sunny climate and provides hydration and keeps you fresh throughout the day.
Fights breakouts
Rose water can be helpful in controlling excess oil production which prevents the excessive breakouts. It is having anti-inflammatory and mild anti-bacterial properties which helps in reducing the irritation, redness of your skin and preventing the bacterial growth.
Calms sensitive skin
Rose water is even helpful for sensitive skin because of the soothing and calming effect on the skin. This will help you in the skin eczema and rosacea like skin conditions.
Unveils a radiant complexion
Rose water can brighten the dull skin complexion because of the hydration it adds as well as the toning and refreshing effect it provides.
Ayurveda says
According to Ayurveda, Rose water or Gulab jal is of Sheeta virya (cold potency) and Tridoshahara (pacifies Vata, Pitta and Kapha doshas). It is having skin wound healing properties. It prevents excessive sweating and gives pleasant smell. It is considered as Varnya which means that it can lighten and brighten the skin complexion by enhancing the inner radiance (Tejas & Ojas) that shines through every skin tone.
References:
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/rose-water-health-benefits-science
Boskabady MH, Shafei MN, Saberi Z, Amini S. Pharmacological effects of rosa damascena. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2011 Jul;14(4):295-307. PMID: 23493250; PMCID: PMC3586833.
Lee MH, Nam TG, Lee I, Shin EJ, Han AR, Lee P, Lee SY, Lim TG. Skin anti-inflammatory activity of rose petal extract (Rosa gallica) through reduction of MAPK signaling pathway. Food Sci Nutr. 2018 Oct 25;6(8):2560-2567. doi: 10.1002/fsn3.870. PMID: 30510758; PMCID: PMC6261181.
https://www.easyayurveda.com/2016/05/30/benefits-remedies-rose-essential-oil/