Arq e gulab, or rose water, is a steam-distilled extract of fresh rose petals used for centuries in Unani and Ayurvedic medicine. It soothes tired eyes, tones skin, and supports digestion. This guide covers its proven benefits, safe usage for eyes and skin, how to drink it, current prices in Pakistan, and when a doctor’s opinion is worth seeking.
What is Arq e Gulab?
Arq e gulab is rose water obtained through the steam distillation of fresh rose petals, primarily from the Damask rose (Rosa damascena). The word “arq” means distilled water in Urdu and Arabic, while “gulab” means rose. Together, arq e gulab literally means “distilled rose water.”
The distillation process involves steaming fresh rose petals and collecting the condensed vapor, which contains the water-soluble compounds and fragrance of the roses. The result is a clear to slightly colored liquid with a delicate rose scent and therapeutic properties.
Arq e gulab has been used for over 2,000 years in traditional medicine systems including Unani, Ayurveda, and Persian medicine. It was highly valued by ancient civilizations for its cooling, soothing, and healing properties.
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Arq e Gulab Benefits
Arq e gulab offers a wide range of health and beauty benefits that have made it a trusted remedy for centuries.
1. Cooling and Soothing Properties
One of the most valued properties of arq e gulab is its cooling effect. In traditional medicine, it is classified as a cooling agent that helps reduce internal heat and inflammation. This makes it especially beneficial during hot Pakistani summers.
2. Anti-Inflammatory
Arq e gulab has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation in the skin and eyes.
3. Antioxidant-Rich
Rose water contains powerful antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, helping prevent premature aging and disease.
4. Antimicrobial
The antimicrobial properties of arq e gulab help fight bacteria and prevent infections, making it useful for skin conditions and eye problems.
5. Mood-Enhancing
The gentle, natural fragrance of arq e gulab has aromatherapy benefits. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue, promoting relaxation and emotional balance.
6. Hydrating
Arq e gulab helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance and prevents dryness without making it oily.
Arq e Gulab for Eyes
One of the most popular uses of arq e gulab in Pakistan is as natural eye drops. In traditional medicine, it has been used for centuries to treat various eye conditions:
Reduces Eye Strain and Fatigue: If you spend long hours in front of screens, arq e gulab can provide instant relief from tired, strained eyes.
Cools Burning Eyes: The cooling property of arq e gulab soothes burning sensations caused by heat, pollution, or dryness.
Reduces Redness: The anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and make your eyes appear brighter and clearer.
Relieves Irritation: Arq e gulab soothes irritation caused by dust, wind, smoke, or allergens.
Improves Eye Health: Regular use may help maintain overall eye health and clarity.
Treats Conjunctivitis: In traditional medicine, arq e gulab is used to treat mild cases of pink eye and other eye infections due to its antimicrobial properties.
Arq e Gulab Eye Drops
Using arq e gulab as eye drops is simple, but it must be done correctly to ensure safety:
Step 1: Make sure the arq e gulab is pure and free from additives or chemicals. It should be specifically labeled for eye use or medicinal grade.
Step 2: Wash your hands thoroughly before application.
Step 3: Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid.
Step 4: Place 1-2 drops of arq e gulab in each eye using a clean dropper.
Step 5: Blink gently to distribute the liquid across your eye.
Step 6: Relax for a few minutes and let the cooling sensation soothe your eyes.
Frequency: Use 2-3 times daily or as needed for relief.
Important Safety Tips
- Always use pure, distilled arq e gulab for eyes
- Store the dropper in a clean, sterile container
- Do not share your eye dropper with others
- If you experience persistent pain, vision changes, or severe irritation, consult an eye doctor immediately
Arq e Gulab Benefits for Skin
Arq e gulab is a beloved skincare ingredient in Pakistan, used by women and men of all ages for beautiful, healthy skin.
1. Natural Toner
Arq e gulab works as a gentle, natural toner that balances the skin’s pH, tightens pores, and prepares skin for moisturizer.
2. Brightens Complexion
Regular use of arq e gulab helps brighten dull skin, reduce dark spots, and give you a natural glow.
3. Reduces Acne and Breakouts
The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce acne, pimples, and prevent future breakouts.
4. Soothes Sunburn and Skin Irritation
The cooling effect of arq e gulab provides instant relief from sunburn, rashes, and skin irritation.
5. Anti-Aging Benefits
The antioxidants in arq e gulab fight free radicals and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
6. Reduces Under-Eye Puffiness
Applying arq e gulab to the under-eye area helps reduce puffiness and dark circles.
7. Treats Eczema and Dermatitis
The soothing properties make arq e gulab beneficial for people with eczema, psoriasis, or other inflammatory skin conditions.
How to Use Arq e Gulab for Skin
As a Toner: After cleansing, apply arq e gulab to your face using a cotton pad. Follow with moisturizer.
Face Mist: Pour arq e gulab into a spray bottle and spritz on your face throughout the day for instant refreshment.
Face Mask: Mix arq e gulab with multani mitti (fuller’s earth), gram flour, or honey to create face masks.
Under-Eye Treatment: Soak cotton pads in cold arq e gulab and place them on your eyes for 10-15 minutes.
Arq e Gulab for Drinking
In traditional medicine, arq e gulab is not just applied externally. it is also consumed for various health benefits such as:
Improves Digestion: Arq e gulab helps relieve constipation, bloating, and indigestion. It stimulates bile production and improves gut health.
Reduces Acidity and Heartburn: The cooling properties help neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from acidity.
Detoxifies the Body: Drinking arq e gulab helps flush out toxins and purify the blood.
Relieves Stress and Anxiety: The aroma and properties of arq e gulab have a calming effect on the nervous system.
Improves Mood: Regular consumption may help reduce depression and improve emotional well-being.
Reduces Inflammation: Internal use helps reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Supports Respiratory Health: It may help soothe sore throats and reduce coughing.
How to Drink Arq e Gulab
Plain: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of pure arq e gulab in a glass of water and drink on an empty stomach in the morning.
With Honey: Add arq e gulab and honey to warm water for digestive benefits.
In Drinks: Add arq e gulab to lassi, milk, or fruit juices for flavor and health benefits.
In Desserts: Use arq e gulab in traditional Pakistani desserts like kheer, falooda, and kulfi.
Important: Only consume food-grade or medicinal-grade arq e gulab. Do not drink cosmetic rose water or products with added chemicals.
Other Traditional Uses of Arq e Gulab
Beyond eyes, skin, and drinking, arq e gulab has many other uses in Pakistani culture:
Hair Care: Add to hair rinse for shine and fragrance, or mix with hair oil for scalp health
Mouth Freshener: Gargle with diluted arq e gulab to freshen breath and soothe mouth ulcers
Aromatherapy: Sprinkle on pillows or in baths for relaxation
Religious Practices: Used to cleanse the Kaaba, in religious ceremonies, and for spiritual purification
Cooking: Added to traditional sweets and drinks for fragrance and flavor
Arq e Gulab Price in Pakistan
The price of arq e gulab in Pakistan varies depending on purity, quantity, and quality.
General price range:
- Small bottles (100ml-200ml): PKR 100 to PKR 400
- Medium bottles (300ml-500ml): PKR 400 to PKR 800
- Large bottles (1 liter): PKR 800 to PKR 1,500
Pure, distilled arq e gulab from reputable sellers may be slightly more expensive but is worth the investment for medicinal and eye use.
How to Store Arq e Gulab
Proper storage ensures arq e gulab stays fresh and effective:
- Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight
- Keep the bottle tightly sealed after each use
- Refrigerate after opening to extend shelf life
- Use within 6-12 months of opening for best quality
- Check for changes in smell or appearance, discard if it smells off or develops cloudiness
Side Effects and Precautions
Arq e gulab is generally safe, but there are some precautions:
Allergic Reactions
Though rare, some people may be allergic to roses. Do a patch test before using on skin or in eyes.
Eye Use Precautions
- Only use pure, medicinal-grade arq e gulab in eyes
- Never use cosmetic rose water in eyes
- If you have a serious eye condition, consult a doctor before use
Internal Use Precautions
- Only consume food-grade or medicinal-grade arq e gulab
- Start with small amounts to see how your body reacts
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before consuming regularly
Quality Matters
Using impure or adulterated arq e gulab can cause irritation or other problems. Always buy from trusted sources.
The Bottom Line
Arq e gulab is a timeless, natural remedy that has stood the test of centuries. From soothing tired eyes and beautifying skin to improving digestion and calming the mind, this traditional elixir offers countless benefits for modern life.
In Pakistan, arq e gulab is not just a product. It is part of our cultural and medicinal heritage. It is affordable, easily available, and safe for almost everyone when used properly. The key to getting the best results is using pure, high-quality arq e gulab and incorporating it consistently into your routine. Remember, natural remedies work gradually but deliver lasting benefits.
If you need medical consultation for eye problems, skin conditions, or digestive issues, you can easily connect with the best eye specialist, dermatologist, or gastroenterologist in Pakistan through Marham. Call 03111222398 for more information.
Is It Safe to Use Arq e Gulab as Eye Drops?
Arq e gulab can be used near the eyes, but the grade and sterility of the product matter greatly. Standard cosmetic rose water is not manufactured under sterile ophthalmic conditions, so placing it directly inside the eye carries a risk of bacterial or fungal contamination.
Medical guidance from ophthalmology bodies indicates that only products specifically labelled as sterile ophthalmic rose water eye drops should be applied inside the eye. For general soothing, a safer approach is the compress method: soak cotton pads in chilled, pure arq e gulab and rest them over closed eyelids for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Always choose medicinal-grade or ophthalmic-grade arq e gulab for eye use, not cosmetic facial mist.
- Never use homemade or unbranded rose water directly in the eyes.
- If you wear contact lenses, remove them before any eye application.
- Persistent redness, pain, or vision changes are signs to stop use and consult an eye specialist promptly.
If you have a diagnosed eye condition such as conjunctivitis, dry eye, or pterygium, speak with an ophthalmologist before adding any traditional remedy to your routine.
Arq e Gulab for Skin: Dermatologist-Backed Tips
Dermatologists recognise rose water as a gentle, low-irritation ingredient suitable for most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Its mild astringent and anti-inflammatory properties make it a practical addition to a basic skincare routine.
A Simple Daily Routine
- Morning cleanse: Splash face with water, then apply arq e gulab with a cotton pad as a toner before moisturiser.
- Midday refresh: Pour into a small spray bottle and mist the face to combat heat and pollution, especially useful in cities like Karachi and Lahore during summer.
- Night treatment: Mix with a few drops of aloe vera gel and apply to acne-prone areas before bed.
Conditions It May Help
- Acne and oily skin: Reduces surface bacteria and controls excess sebum without stripping moisture.
- Sunburn and heat rash: The cooling effect provides quick relief after sun exposure.
- Eczema and dermatitis: Soothes inflammation and itching; always patch-test first if skin is broken.
- Under-eye puffiness: Cold arq e gulab compresses reduce morning puffiness effectively.
If a skin condition does not improve within two to three weeks of consistent use, or if it worsens, a dermatologist can identify the underlying cause and recommend targeted treatment.
When to See a Doctor Instead of Using Home Remedies
Arq e gulab is a supportive remedy, not a substitute for medical treatment. Certain symptoms need professional evaluation regardless of how mild they seem at first.
Eye Symptoms That Need a Doctor
- Redness or discharge lasting more than 48 hours
- Pain inside the eye, not just surface irritation
- Blurred or reduced vision at any point
- Sensitivity to light or seeing halos around lights
- Swelling around the eye socket
Skin Symptoms That Need a Doctor
- Acne that does not respond to gentle cleansing after four to six weeks
- Rashes that spread, blister, or are accompanied by fever
- Suspected eczema or psoriasis flare-ups
- Pigmentation changes that appear suddenly
An online consultation with a verified eye specialist or dermatologist through Marham takes only a few minutes to arrange and can prevent a minor issue from becoming a serious one.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is arq e gulab and how is it made?
Arq e gulab is pure rose water produced by steam-distilling fresh rose petals, primarily from the Damask rose (Rosa damascena). The process captures water-soluble plant compounds and the natural fragrance of roses, resulting in a clear, gentle liquid with cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains no synthetic additives when produced correctly and has been used in Unani and Ayurvedic medicine for over 2,000 years.
Is arq e gulab safe to put directly in the eyes?
Only sterile, ophthalmic-grade arq e gulab should be placed directly inside the eyes. Standard cosmetic rose water is not manufactured under sterile conditions and can introduce bacteria or fungi to the eye. A safer alternative for most people is a cold compress: soak cotton pads in chilled arq e gulab and rest them over closed eyelids for 10 to 15 minutes. If you have an existing eye condition, consult an eye specialist before use.
What are the main benefits of arq e gulab for skin?
Arq e gulab acts as a natural toner that balances skin pH, reduces redness, and controls excess oil without causing dryness. Its anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial properties help calm acne, soothe sunburn, and reduce under-eye puffiness. It is suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin, and can be used as a daily toner, face mist, or ingredient in DIY face masks with multani mitti or honey.
Can you drink arq e gulab, and what are the benefits?
Yes, food-grade or medicinal-grade arq e gulab can be consumed safely. In traditional Unani medicine it is used to support digestion, relieve acidity, and calm the nervous system. A common method is mixing one to two tablespoons in a glass of water, taken in the morning. Only consume products labelled as food-grade or medicinal-grade; never drink cosmetic rose water, which may contain additives not safe for internal use.
What is the price of arq e gulab in Pakistan?
Arq e gulab is widely available across Pakistan at pharmacies, herbal stores, and online. Small bottles of 100 ml to 200 ml typically cost between PKR 100 and PKR 400, medium bottles of 300 ml to 500 ml range from PKR 400 to PKR 800, and one-litre bottles cost approximately PKR 800 to PKR 1,500. Medicinal or ophthalmic-grade products from reputable brands may cost slightly more but are the safer choice for eye and internal use.
Medically reviewed by Marham Medical Team. Updated July 2026.
