What are 'hydrosols'?

HYDROSOLS

"Hydrosol" is a term coined by Jeanne Rose in the 1980s to describe herbal distillate waters. Resins, roots, leaves, flowers, etc can be steam distilled to craft several substances including essential oils - and Hydrosols. The plant material is subjected to steam and pressure, extracting the cellular waters and aromatic compounds.

True hydrosols have measurable amounts of plant medicine and can be used by herbalists to help re-balance imbalances in the body.

Most folks are familiar with Rose Water and Witch Hazel. Both have traditionally met the definition of a hydrosol. But it’s common for floral waters (like rose water) to be manufactured as distilled water with added fragrance.

When essential oils are processed using a still, there are two products: the essential oil, and a herbal/floral water. Those of us that are passionate about creating the distillate water don’t set out with the goal of achieving the collection of essential oils.

Therefore the process is slower and produces a hydrosol that contains more of the precious and potent plant material.

HOW TO USE HYDROSOLS

• I recommend using them as literal hydration- spritz liberally!

• layer between applications of oils, serums, lotions and other unguents for healthier skin

  • easier absorption

  • less expensive product used

• You can also use the ones you purchase from me as the water phase in lotion making

• Add to clays to make masks and cleansers

• Use a couple of pumps to thin out thick body butters

• Spritz into your palm with our oils and emulsify gently before applying to create a lotion effect

The fragrance is fleeting as there are minute particles of plant essences suspended in water - but they are a pleasant refresher.

Hydrosols are a singular herb: rose geranium, lavender, etc. I also like to experiment with co-distillation. For example Chaos Garden a distillate made with all the skin safe herbs from my garden including clary sage, lemon thyme, and lemon-verbena (full list on the website). And Witchy Water is a post-distillation that includes many hydrolates blended like a perfume.

Curious about distilling your own? or thinking of buying a still, but have questions? Contact Me

If you’re in metro-Detroit, I have learning and demo opportunities. Custom distillations on request.