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Hydrosol:  What is Hydrosol? What can I do with Hydrosol?

Hydrosol, also known as herbal distillate, is a byproduct or co-product of oil distillation. In our case, it is the water that is left over after distilling lavender to extract lavender essential oils. Wikipedia defines it as “colloidal suspensions of essential oils as well as water soluble components obtained by steam distillation or hydro distillation from plants/herbs” (Wikipedia contributors). So basically, when you use steam distillation for making lavender oil, the steam that carries the oils out of the lavender converts back to water as it cools and separates from the oil. 

 Courtsey of http://www.essentialoilco.com/hydrosols.html  

Courtsey of http://www.essentialoilco.com/hydrosols.htm

Once the oil has separated and is collected, what is left is lavender hydrosol or ‘essential water’ (not to be confused with ‘lavender water’), which contains small quantities of oil and other water-soluble plant flavonoids and pigments. It smells quite different than the oil, but is very aromatic. And this, of course, varies depending on the type of lavender that is being distilled. Hydrosols tend to be acidic and should be stored and handled with care. It is best to keep them in amber or dark colored glass containers, sealed tightly. Hydrosol should be stored in a cool, dry place. With proper storage, it can last up to several years.  

Our distillation process is explained at How to Distill Essential Oil where we explain our distillation process.  However, once we have have our oil the question quickly arises, what do I do with Hydrosol?  Below are some common uses for hydrosol, in particular lavender hydrosol.  Please test hydrosols before use to avoid any irritation or staining of materials.  

1.    Cosmetics – the higher acid pH as well as it’s antibacterial properties makes hydrosol a desired component for skin

 Courtsey of Seth Doyle Courtsey of Seth Doyle

  • Toner/Facial Spray
  • Aftershave
  • Body Spray
  • Foot Spray
  • Deodorant Spray
  • Wound Spray – rinsing, cleansing and rapid healing of skin abrasions
  • Itch Spray – skin irritation associated with sun, eczema, wind, dryness or aging
  • Hair Freshener

2.    Fragrance sprays- lavender is a popular scent that most people find very pleasant

  • Room Spray
  • Linen Spray
  • Car Freshener
  • Garment Freshener

3.    Mood Spray- known for it’s calming and relaxing fragrance, lavender can enhance certain feelings

 Courtsey of Dingzeyu Li Courtsey of Dingzeyu Li

  • Calming Spray
  • Meditation or Prayer Spray
  • Aphrodisiac Room Mist

4.    Cleaning Spray

 Courtesy of Jennifer Burk Courtesy of Jennifer Burk

  • Hard Surfaces – cleaning and disinfecting
  • Solvent – removal of oily substances
  • Shower Spray – prevent mildew
  • Window Cleaner – non-streaking for glass, mirrors and windows 
  • Produce Spray
  • Stainless Steel Cleaner – for removing fingerprints and water spots

5.    Other

 Courtesy of Lubormirkin Courtesy of Lubormirkin

  • a.    Baby Wipe Moistening Solution
  • b.    Compress
  • c.    Dog shampoo
  • d.    Plant Spray – for dealing with aphids, mealy bugs, etc.