Boy, even in something as seemingly simple as aromatherapy, strange terms just keep cropping up, don't they. Now we want to discuss hyrdosols.
So, what the heck are they?
Hydrosols are basically just another type of product commonly used in aromatherapy.
They are frequently combined with essential
oils and carrier
oils as a way to enhance the base product. Steam
distillation, and water distillation, two processes commonly used for extracting essential oils from plants,
roots, flowers and fruits produce another byproduct: water.
This leftover water
retains within it the scent of the plant from which it was extracted
and this fragrant liquid is what's referred to as the hydrosols.
Hydrosols are also known by
other names including hydrolytes and hydrolates.
By their nature, hydrosols are much lighter than essential
oils.
However, they also
maintain many of the same attributes of essential oils and the addition
of water simply makes for a milder product than the essential oils
themselves. There are times in aromatherapy
when a milder version of an essential oil is preferred. For example,
hydrosols are perfect for using as a toner for skin. Hydrosols, because
they are milder, are also safer to use on children's skin and sensitive
skin.
Since hydrosols are water-based, they're sometimes also called
"floral water". Just be certain to read the label as
some floral water products claiming to contain hydrosols
really are nothing more than colored water which has been scented with
a few drops of essential oils. This color is a clue. Most hydrosols are
nearly colorless, so steer clear of those that have color.
WHAT HYDROSOLS CAN DO:
A few drops of your favorite scented hydrosols can calm, invigorate, relax and soothe.
Believe it or not, these light scents can help turn a cranky person
into a happy person in just a few minutes. Aromatherapy hydrosols
really are that effective.
The thing that's important to remember about hydrosols is that in order
to preserve their shelf life, they need to be refrigerated. And
although they are primarily used externally, they can be used
internally, with caution. Some need to be heated prior to use. When in
doubt, always read the product label.
THREE HYDROSOLS AND THEIR
USES
Roman Chamomile
hydrosol is an excellent way to alleviate a number of skin
problems.
Whether you have dry,
flaky skin or a problem with eczema, acne and even hemorrhoids, a few
drops will make a huge difference. A few drops on a compress can
alleviate tired eyes and can even dull the pounding pain of a migraine
headache.
If you love the aroma of freshly cut Christmas trees, a few drops from
a bottle of balsam fir
hydrosol can fill the air
inside your home with that same pleasant scent all year 'round. The
scent is distilled from a balsam fir's needles. Besides adding the
aroma to the air, you can pour a few drops into a foot bath to help
invigorate tired feet. This scent is a powerful mood booster, too.
One of the most popular aromatherapy hydrosols and one that has been
used for thousands of years is rose hydrosol.
Rose hydrosol is used in
many different types of skin care products including toners and
moisturizers, body sprays and douches. Rose hydrosol can help balance
the skin's pH and its antibacterial properties can help those with
acne.
