Floral and Herbal Waters

[Guest guest]

Floral and Herbal WatersI make rose and lavender waters , pour them into heart shaped bottles(any pretty bottle), decorate the bottle and sell them in my shop! These would make excellent gifts. They have many uses...less heavily scented than colognes, they can be used as splashes or toilet waters for a refreshing pick-me-up or as perfumed additions to baths. I use them to perfume the house. Left uncovered in pretty glass bottles, they subtly scent a bathroom or dressing area. You can use them in finger bowls at the table, or boiled in a saucepan for a few minutes, they can beautifully perfume several connecting rooms of your home.

When mixing the recipes, measure out the distilled water, then pour into a mixing bottle. Add the vodka, (rubbing alcohol will not work). Mix in the herbs(or flowers) so that they are thoroughly wet. Let the mixture stand in a covered bottle in a cool, dark place for one week to allow the scent to age. You can leave the peals or herbs in the mixture for a pretty visual effect.....however, some petals don't fare as well as others...so if that's the case, just strain them out.

You can use this recipe for making any herb-scented water you prefer. I made it using dried chamomile flowers, and the result was marvelous.

You will need:3 cups distilled water1/4 cup vodka1 ounce dried chamomile flowers

Follow the directions above.

Lavender Water is not only a delicious bath additive, it's also a terrific way to pick up your spirits on a warm day....just dip a handkerchief into a batch that you've kept cooling in the refrigerator and pat some onto your face and neck as the Victorians used to do.

You will need:2 cups distilled water1/4 cup vodka8 drops lavender fragrance or essential oil(I use the essential oil)

Follow the directions above.

Rose Water In ancient times, rose water was sprinkled onto visitors as they entered the house. While I wouldn't advise doing this for your guests, you might consider putting rose water into finger bowls the next time you give a dinner party.....or, do as I do....uncap it and let it sweetly fragrance the bathroom, or guest room.

You will need:2 cups distilled water1/4 cup vodka 10 drops rose oil 1/2 cup fresh deep-red rose petals

About the Author:Karen is an avid gardener and crafter. She and her husband have a Backyard Wildlife Habitat, plus 'Fairy Gardens' where the children can learn about different herbs and hear Karen read a story about the Garden Fairies and Flowers. For more information about Karen and her herb discussion lists, WindowsillGarden, visit windowsillgarden. or NatureCrafts at NatureCrafts.