I love rosewater – it not only smells gorgeous, but has antibacterial properties as well. In Middle Eastern countries, they will pour it on their hands for cleansing before eating.
You can buy it at ethnic food shops, as it is used extensively in Asian and Indian cuisine, but I found this lovely old recipe for making your own. Try it out if you have enough rose petals in your garden, or perhaps you have a friend who is willing to part with some.
Rosewater
2 cups rose petals (old-fashioned, fragrant varieties are best)
2 cups boiling water
Pour the boiling water over the petals and steep them in a glass, porcelain or pottery jar, jug or bowl for two days. Keep covered with a plate or tea towel. Stir often, then strain and store in a glass jar or bottle.
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