Exploring Hydrosols (Part 1)

Aromatherapy isn’t just about essential oils. Various products that fall under the aromatherapy umbrella are absolutes, resinoids, CO2 extracts, and hydrosols. Each of these products originates from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in many plants; however, the extraction method will determine the end product.

In this educational blog, we delve into the world of hydrosols, also known as hydrolates. While the term hydrosol is more commonly used, the word hydrolate has gained preference. Coined by the late Jeanne Rose in the early 1990s, the term ‘hydrosol’, ‘hydro’ which refers to water and ‘sol’ which refers to solution. This blog is a tribute to Jeanne Rose and her significant contribution to the field of aromatherapy.

Kelly and I, with the guidance of Ann Harman, had the privilege of learning the art of hydrosol distillation in 2013 at her organic farm in Fruitland, Washington. This experience, where everything we distilled was freshly picked from Ann’s property, was truly magical. Jeanne Rose, who began as Ann’s mentor, and later became her colleague, shared the same authenticity and passion for the art of hydrosol distillation.

While hydrosols are often referred to as a byproduct of steam or hydro distillation, the best hydrosols are those that are distilled specifically for hydrosol production. These hydrosols contain just a small amount of the volatile essential oil component (less than 1%) (Harman 2015). However, it's worth noting that hydrosols can also be made from plant material that does not contain VOCs, such as cucumber.

Unlike essential oils, which are hydrophobic and do not dissolve in water, hydrosols are water-soluble. They are less concentrated and therefore gentler than essential oils, making them suitable for direct application without the need for dilution. It's important to understand that hydrosols are not essential oils mixed with water, but distinct products with unique properties.

The shelf life of hydrosols is about one year. To extend the shelf life make sure to follow these instructions.

• keep the hydrosol in a dark glass bottle
• store your hydrosol away from direct sunlight and ideally in a cool, dark location (can be refrigerated)
• make sure to screw the cap tightly on the bottle
• keep bottles full by transferring hydrosols to smaller bottles as needed. When a bottle of hydrosol is left partially full, the oxygen that also lives inside the bottle reacts with the hydrosol and begins to oxidize it. This process can cause the hydrosol to deteriorate more quickly and harm the fragile aromatic and therapeutic constituents of the hydrosol.
• don't allow unsterilized items such as fingers, cotton balls, or other items to come into direct contact with your hydrosol. Instead, pour off the quantity needed or measure it into a different container. Then, work from that container, leaving the integrity of the original hydrosol intact.
• purchase your hydrosol from a credible source

Hydrosols are a refreshing and gentle way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy during the hot summer months. Here are some ways to use your hydrosol:

• Facial Mist: Spray hydrosol on your face to cool down and hydrate your skin.
• Body Spray: Use as a refreshing body spray to keep cool and fresh.
• After-Sun Care: Apply to sunburned skin for its soothing and healing properties.
• Compress: Soak a clean cloth in hydrosol and apply it to the forehead or back of the neck to cool down.
• Bath: Add 1 – 2 cups of hydrosol to your bathwater for a relaxing and refreshing soak.

Two hydrosols that are particularly well-suited for summer use:

Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) Hydrosol: With its cooling and invigorating effects, peppermint hydrosol can be used as a refreshing facial mist or body spray to help cool you down. Spray a clean cloth with peppermint hydrosol to use as a compress for alleviating headaches and fatigue. Add 1 – 2 cups of peppermint hydrosol to a cool bath to cool down before bed. 

 True Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) Hydrosol: Known for its soothing   properties, lavender hydrosol can help cool and refresh when sprayed on the skin   on hot summer days. It is also recommended for children when dealing with   tantrums and crankiness. It can be used on baby’s bottoms for diaper rash. A mist in a baby’s or child’s room before nap or bedtime will help with sleep. Lavender hydrosol is also great for soothing sunburns and insect bites. Jeanne Rose recommended lavender hydrosol for jet lag.

In Part 2 of this blog series, we will discuss other hydrosols and what they can be used for.

Ann Harman teaches the hydrosol component of the Professional Certification Program in Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Science and advanced hydrosols in the Master's Program Diploma in Aromatherapy, Essential Oil Science, and Research.

References

Article by: Colleen Thompson, Cert Ed, MIFPA, RA®, EOT®, CA

For over 25 years, Colleen Thompson has been a passionate and highly respected aromatherapy educator. She has owned 3 aromatherapy stores and a holistic spa, and she founded Essence of Thyme in 1995, where she mentors budding aromatherapists from all over the world, helping them create their own thriving aromatherapy businesses.

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