Unlocking the Magic of Hydrosols: Your Go-To Guide for Benefits and Uses

Hydrosols are a fascinating result of the steam distillation process. They capture the light scent and natural healing properties of plants, especially lavender. These mild. yet powerful waters stand out from essential oils, which are more concentrated and much stronger.

What Are Hydrosols?

Hydrosols are much more than just water mixed with essential oils or fancy sprays. Instead, they are a natural result of the distillation process and retain the properties of the plants, including their scent and healing benefits.

Hydrosols are floral waters captured during steam distillation

Why Use Hydrosols Instead of Essential Oils?

Essential oils are well-known for their many benefits, but because they are concentrated, they often need to be diluted before use. Here is where hydrosols come into play. Hydrosols are already diluted, making them easy to incorporate into daily life. Because they are water-based, they can be added to recipes like facial mists, cleansers, and hydrosols can be a great alternative for those with sensitive skin or for children, who may benefit from milder properties.

How to Store Hydrosols

Proper storage is key to keeping your hydrosols effective and fresh! To extend their shelf life, store them in a cool, dark place. Here are two tips for storage:

• Cool temperatures: Aim to keep hydrosols in a cooler room or area if possible. Storing your hydrosols in the fridge or even at room temperature is perfectly fine, but avoid leaving them in a hot car for an extended time.

• Light protection: Use tinted amber containers to shield them from sunlight, which can break down their beneficial properties.

  
  

While lavender essential oil can last indefinitely, it is best to use lavender hydrosol within 2-3 years for optimal benefits.

How to Use Lavender Hydrosols

Lavender Hydrosols naturally contain some of the anti-bacterial and antimicrobial properties that lavender has, while also containing some natural "cooling" properties. With a typical pH of 5.6-5.9, lavender hydrosol is ideal to use with all skin types. Here are some great uses for Lavender Hydrosol:

Body:

- As a Skin Toner: Lavender Hydrosol has a pH similar to healthy skin, making it an excellent toner for the face and body.

- Spray on the face or body in hot weather for its cooling effects and to calm sunburns.

- Store in the fridge and use for relief from hot flashes.

- Create a facial mask by mixing hydrosol with facial clay until the desired consistency is achieved.

- Use as a compress for tired eyes: Soak a cotton ball or pad and place on eyes for 5 minutes before applying makeup, or take 10 minutes for a relaxing at-home spa treatment!

- Facial Steamer: Boil water with 50% hydrosol added and pour into a bowl. Cover your head with a towel over the bowl for a deeper pore-cleaning session.

- Moisturizer: Spritz before applying lotion to help skin retain moisture longer. Use as a moisturizing mist throughout the day, even over makeup, for added relief.

- As a Bug Spray:

- Personal Hygiene: Use in a “sitz bath” for healing and repair.

Home:

- Yoga Mat Spray – Acts as a refresher and includes mild anti-bacterial and antimicrobial properties.

- Deodorizer for Athletic Shoes

- Ironing Mister for Linens (test on fabrics first)

- Add to humidifier water to eliminate musty odors

- Use for streak-free glass when cleaning windows

- Carpet Cleaner – Add to the tank to deodorize and refresh when using a carpet cleaning machine.

- Laundry: Add a small amount to the rinse cycle of your washing machine. This is one of my favorite methods! I prepare it in advance with a bit of vinegar and store it near my washing machine.

- Washing Fruits and Vegetables, safe to spray on or near food.

- Stainless Steel Cleaner

Kids and Babies:

Diluted hydrosols offer many safe and enjoyable possibilities. I suggest reading the book “Hydrosols” by Suzanne Caty. She provides detailed instructions for creating kid-friendly “perfume” or “monster spray,” as well as recipes for wet wipes and bum spray for babies, or for adding to bath water or laundry. Lavender hydrosol is especially beneficial for healing and preventing diaper rashes.

The Benefits of Hydrosols

Hydrosols offer a wonderful way to explore the healing properties of plants, especially lavender. Their mild nature makes them suitable for many applications. By discovering what hydrosols are and how to use them, you can tap into a treasure trove of benefits!