Floral Waters

Floral water contains the essence of flowers and herbs. This aromatic water can be used for cooking, as an astringent, as an after-bath-splash, or for decorative purposes. When placed in attractive glass jars or bottles, floral water makes a wonderful bathroom or kitchen accessory.

This lovely fragrant water is relatively simple and inexpensive to make. The most popular kinds of floral waters are rose and lavender but you can use flowers and herbs of your choice. The simplest method to make floral water consists of 3 basic elements: water, alcohol, and flower petals (or herbs). It is best to use distilled water which can be found at your local drug store or supermarket. Make sure that your flower petals or herbs are fresh, they are best when picked before the heat of the afternoon sun. Rubbing alcohol can be used but it has a powerful scent that can interfere with your floral fragrance. It is best to use vodka for the alcohol part.

- 3 cups distilled water
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1 ounce flower petals

Combine the water and vodka in a bowl or jar. In a separate jar, place the flower petals. Pour the water/vodka mixture into the flower jar making sure that the petals are completely covered and immersed. Cover the jar tightly and place it in shaded area for about 2 to 3 weeks. Shake the jar occasionally while the mixture is curing. When the mixture is ready and the water has taken the scent and essence of your flowers, strain it to remove the petals and place the fragrant water in a decorative bottle or jar. You may add some flower petals to float in the water for a beautiful decorative effect.