One of the best beauty secrets of all time could in fact be one of the most underused secrets in the kitchen.

For years, roses have been used in skincare products as a way to relieve stress. Rose water is a good example of this. It has been used for centuries in the middle east because of its antioxidant and medicinal properties. In fact, there is evidence of ancient civilizations actually using it to help treat infections, wounds, and even respiratory issues.

But the benefits don’t end there. Ancient civilizations have also used roses in their food to help reduce inflammation and even some forms of anxiety. Science today backs up these claims, so why shouldn’t you take advantage of the awesome effects of rose water today?

Hesitant to try this new ingredient? You can often find rose water in bakery treats or even in a rose jam. Rose water can be found in so many different places that anyone could find a way to take advantage of its effects.