Rose water has been used around the world by many different cultures for centuries. Perfume was, of course, one of its most popular uses, but it has also been used medicinally to treat headaches and indigestion. More recently, the scent of roses has been shown to reduce blood pressure and stress levels.

Rose water can be purchased at tons of amazing retailers, but lucky for you, it’s easy to make at home.

So instead of tossing your Valentine's Day roses after a few days, here’s one easy recipe to make your own rose water.

1. Use several handfuls of rose petals (fresh or dried). If your roses came from the store or anywhere not your front yard, give them a good rinse to get rid of any chemicals or pesticides that might be lingering.

2. Place the rose petals in a pot and fill with just enough water to cover the petals, but don’t overfill the pot. Distilled or spring water is the best water to use, but use whatever kind you have.

3. Cover the pot and simmer for approximately 20-30 minutes or until the color in the roses fades.

4. Using cheesecloth, strain the mixture, leaving just the water. That’s it! You now have your own rose water. Transfer to any clean glass or plastic bottle and store in your fridge or on your countertop.

Now that you have homemade rose water – what should you do with it?

1. Use as a facial toner – Rose water can be used to tighten pores and to calm acne and rosacea.
2. Use on your hair — Have dandruff or want to get rid of product buildup? Mix your rose water with some peppermint essential oil and massage into your scalp, then rinse. Rose water's anti-inflammatory properties will also soothe your scalp, especially if you've been scratching.
3. Use in your bathwater — How can you make a relaxing bath even better? Add some rose water. Not only will it make your skin feel softer, but it smells amazing.
4. Last but not least, drink it up! Make tea: Heat up your rose water, add a slice of lemon or the tea bag of your choice and enjoy. Or make libations. Adding rose water is a great way to make any cocktail a little fancier. You can experiment and add to your favorite drink, but here is one of my favorites — the Juliet and Romeo. Mix 2 ½ oz of Gin, 2 sprigs of mint, 1 slice of a cucumber, and a splash of your rose water. Muddle the ingredients together, shake, strain over ice and serve chilled.

Bethany J. Peak