What is a Hydrosol?
I have been excited to share hydrosols in my Etsy shop, then I realized many people are unaware as to what exactly hydrosols are. Hydrosols are known as ‘flower water’ with hydro meaning water and sol meaning solution.
Hydrosols have a lot in common with essential oils ~ they are essentially a less concentrated form. Actually, hydrosols and essential oils are created in the same process, a steam distillation in a copper still. If you have never experienced a hydrosol from a small distiller like myself I highly suggest you give it a try ~ they are pure magic! This is because I do not separate the essential oils from the hydrosol due to the small yield of oil. Therefore my hydrosols contain the essential oils and are quite aromatic!
I prefer hydrosols to essential oils for various reasons. For one, essential oils can be harmful to our plant friends as so much plant material is needed to create even a tiny amount of oil. Essential oils are also quite intense medicine. Hydrosols are more versatile in use.
Hydrosols are a sustainable and safe aromatherapy to bring the spirit of the plant into one’s home. Hydrosols are water soluble so they are a great addition to any skin care routine as they are easily absorbable. They can be used as toners or sprayed on the skin throughout the day for moisture. Each plant of course has a different chemical makeup offering different uses. For example, my little secret is using Lavender hydrosol for sunburns! Once you give it a try you will not go back. The Sagebrush and Doug Fir hydrosol in my Etsy shop are antimicrobial and therefore great for cleaning the air and countertops. I love using aromatherapy in my home because scent has a way of bringing us to the here and now ~ centering us into the present moment.
Pouring distilled water into the basin.
Sealing the cracks with rye flour.
Waiting for the yield.
Distillation Process:
To create my hydrosols I use a copper still which is the traditional method. I am by no means an expert, but I have been absolutely loving the process and feel very connected to the medicine I am creating. I love being involved with traditional processes our ancestors used. Recently I have been thinking about how living in a fast paced instant gratification society has affected my ability to sit down to read and study. I have been saddened to see myself look for instantaneous answers as I complete tasks. The process of using my hands and connecting to ancient ways is so healing for my soul.
If you have any questions about the process of distillation or hydrosols in general please reach out I love sharing my knowledge!
Xx
Paige
Instagram: Paiges.Potions