Rose water is a natural remedy that people have used for centuries to treat a variety of health issues, including dry eye symptoms. It is famous for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help to relieve the discomfort and irritation of dry eyes. Compresses are an age-old remedy for relieving many types of ailments and are especially useful for treating dry eye symptoms. They can reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, and provide soothing moisture.

Rose water compresses are also known to be gentle on the delicate eye area, so they are an ideal choice for those with sensitive eyes. For occasional, minor symptoms of dry eye disease, here’s a free DIY home-spa treatment!

Homemade Rose Water Compress for Dry Eyes Recipe

Please note: this is a soothing, spa-like treatment that may provide some relief from minor dry eye symptoms. However, a rose water compress is unlikely to address the root of dry eye symptoms. To speak with an optometrist about dry eye relief available at Royal Oak Optometry, book a dry eyes consultation.

1. Pick 2 cups of fresh organic or culinary red rose petals. Use only organic, and unsprayed petals. Discard all stems, leaves and hips. (Yellow roses work, but turn the rosewater brown.)
2. Wash fresh petals well under cool running water, in case of bugs or debris.
3. Gently simmer fresh petals (covered) in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes, until the petals turn translucent and all colour is extracted. Remove from heat, but keep covered and allow the saucepan to cool and steep (keeping the rose petals in the pot) until liquid is room temperature.
4. Once cooled to room temperature, strain out the petals from the rose water.
5. With a clean cotton face cloth, use as a compress on your eyes. Rose water has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-infection properties, which can be a relief to your dry eyes. Re-soak and wring out cloth as needed.
6. Store remaining rose water in a clean glass bottle (a jam jar with lid, both rinsed with boiled water, works well.) Cover and keep remainder for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
7. Use refrigerated rosewater in a cold compress for puffy eyes, or a refreshing face rinse!

* A little water, time, and patience can reconstitute dried organic rose petals into rose water. Use 2 Tbsp. organic dried rose petals to 3/4 cup water and follow recipe instructions above. Dried petals yield enough rose water for one single Spa Treatment.

This post does not provide medical advice and is intended for informational purposes only. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice or delay in seeking treatment because of information found on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor (the Royal Oak Optometry Clinic phone number is 250-479-8206) or dial 911.