Unlocking the Magic of Hydrosols

Have you tried Hydrosols? I'll admit, when I first began experimenting with Hydrosols, I didn't expect to like them as much as essential oils. Compared to essential oils, they are much milder, and I wasn't sure how to use them. However, now I can't imagine living without them. I use them for countless purposes! I literally have a bottle in every room of the house! Hydrosols are amazing and completely natural. We produce them alongside lavender when we distill it for essential oils. Through heat and pressure, the water is transformed like magic into this essence of lavender. This contains many of lavender's properties and benefits—already diluted and suspended in water!

These gentle yet incredibly effective waters offer a lighter, more subtle touch while still packing a powerful punch.

What Are Hydrosols?

Hydrosols are more than just water mixed with essential oils or fancy sprays. Instead, they naturally result from the distillation process. They 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. However, because they are concentrated, they often need dilution before use. Here's where hydrosols come into play. They are already diluted! This makes them easy to integrate into daily life. Since they are water-based, they can be used as facial mists and cleansers. Hydrosols are a fantastic alternative for those with sensitive skin or for children, who 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: Keep hydrosols in a cooler room or even store them in the fridge. Avoid leaving them in a hot car or a windowsill for extended periods.

• Light protection: Use tinted amber containers or store them in a cabinet. This protects them from sunlight, which can break down their beneficial properties over time and reduce their shelf life.

  
  

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 contain antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that lavender has, while also offering natural "cooling" effects. With a typical pH of 5.6-5.9, lavender hydrosol is ideal for all skin types. Here are some great uses for lavender hydrosol:

For the Body:

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

• Cooling Effect: Spray on the face or body in hot weather to calm sunburns.

• Hot Flash Relief: Store in the fridge for relief during hot flashes.

• Facial Mask: Mix with facial clay until the desired consistency is achieved.

• Tired Eyes: Soak a cotton ball or pad and place it on your 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, pour into a bowl, and cover your head with a towel for a deeper pore-cleansing session.

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

• Bug Spray: Acts as a natural bug repellent!

• Personal Hygiene: Use in a "sitz bath" for healing and repair.

  
  

Home Uses:

• Yoga Mat Spray: Acts as a refresher with mild antibacterial properties.

• Deodorizer for Athletic Shoes: Keeps shoes smelling fresh.

• Ironing Mister for Linens: Test on fabrics first!

• Humidifier Water: Add hydrosol to eliminate musty odors.

• Window Cleaner: Use for streak-free glass cleaning.

• Carpet Cleaner: Add to the tank of a carpet cleaning machine for deodorizing.

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

• Washing Fruits and Vegetables: Safe to spray on or near food.

• Stainless Steel Cleaner: Keeps steel shiny and clean.

For Kids and Babies:

Diluted hydrosols offer many safe possibilities. From kid-friendly “perfume” or “monster spray,” as well as wet wipes and bum spray for babies. Hydrosols can also be added 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, from beauty routines to household cleaning. By discovering what hydrosols are and how to use them, you can tap into a treasure trove of benefits and unlock the magic of Hydrosols!

Hydrosols are an incredible addition to any home. Their versatility and gentle nature make them a great companion to essential oils, providing a fantastic alternative for many uses.