Hydrosols | Flower Waters

Hydrosols | Flower Waters – What are they?

Hydrosols are the waters that are recovered after the steam distillation of essential oils.  A hydrosol contains not only the water that was used in distillation but also small amounts of essential oil that could not be separated out in the final stage of the extraction process, as well as non-volatile plant compounds that were extracted by the steam. Enjoy the wonderful experience of rubbing or spraying flower waters on your skin?

“Hydrosol” is not a word you hear every day and you may be more familiar with terms like “Rose Water” or “Lavender Water” –  that’s what we’re talking about. They’re are also known as flower waters, hydroflorates, and hydrolats. All of these terms mean the same thing but you should be aware that the term “flower water” has been used incorrectly by a few suppliers to refer to a product that was made by adding a little essential oil to ordinary water; these products are not true hydrosols and do not have the same properties as the real thing.

Our Hydrosols come in a spray bottle, for a cooling face mist. There’s nothing like a spritz of aromatic hydrosol to refresh yourself when you’re feeling hot and tired.

Although Hydrosols are water-based and therefore far less concentrated than essential oils, it is still a good idea to treat them with respect and follow sensible safety precautions. Many aromatherapists recommend that you can apply flower waters directly to adult skin without further dilution but if you have especially sensitive skin or are applying to young children then diluting your hydrosol is wise and is certainly most economical. Please stick with external use unless you have appropriate training in other methods. Also, you should be aware that hydrosols have a much shorter shelf life than essential oils. To prolong shelf life, you can store these floral waters in your refrigerator with the added benefit of being able to give yourself a cooling spritz whenever you want.