Aromatherapy and Hydrosols
Hydrosols are another type of product commonly used in aromatherapy. They’re frequently combined with essential oils and carrier oils as a way to enhance the base product. The steam and water distillation processes used for extracting essential oils from plants, roots, flowers and fruits produces another byproduct: water. This leftover water retains the scent of the plant from which it was extracted and the fragrant liquid is what’s referred to as the hydrosols. Hydrosols are known by other names including hydrolytes and hydrolates.
Hydrosols are much lighter than essential oils. They maintain many of the same attributes of essential oils and the addition of water simply makes a milder product. There are times 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.
Hydrosols are water-based so 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 scented with a few drops of essential oils. Most hydrosols are nearly without color, so steer clear of those that have color.
A few drops of your favorite scented hydrosols can calm, invigorate, relax and soothe. Believe it or not, these light scents can 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.
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.
About the Author
Dr. John Spencer Ellis
Each week, over one million people enjoy a fitness and wellness program created by John Spencer Ellis. His programs are implemented in the top resorts, spas and health clubs. John is the CEO of NESTA (National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association), the Spencer Institute for Life Coaching, and the Get America Fit Foundation.
He created Adventure Boot Camp, the largest fitness boot camp system in the world. His TriActive America signature series of outdoor exercise equipment is used worldwide. John has been featured on ABC, NBC, CBS, PBS, FOX, FOX Sports, FOX Reality, SPIKE and ESPN. He is the fitness and lifestyle expert on Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Orange County and Daybreak OC (KDOC news). John is the producer of the documentary The Compass (Jan. 2009).
Making a White Rose Hydrosol
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ThermaSol B01-2001 Bulgarian Rose Hydrosol – 90ml Bottle Bulgarian Rose Hydrosol – Anti-bacterial & Restores Skin PH BalanceA truly refreshing Bulgarian Rose Hydrosol that is the pure genuine and authentic co-product of rose distillation. Our therapeutic Hydrosol is made from ECOCERT certified, 100% true organic quality roses, is anti-bacterial and restores the natural PH balance of your skin.90 ml bottle… |
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My Beauty Diary Bulgarian White Rose Mask-10 Piece $10.49 My beauty Diary Bulgarian White Rose Mask realizes translucent and white skin. It is ideal for all skin types, especially dull skin. Perform translucent and white skin: containing Bulgarian White Rose hydrosol, it soothes and hydrates skin. Blended with licorice and kiwi essence, it whitens and nourishes skin, for bright, fine, translucent and white skin. Leave skin watery and soft: natural hyd… |
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Organic Bulgarian Rose Water- 250ml (USDA organic) $15.95 Bottled in the heart of the Valley of Roses in Bulgaria, Alteya’s certified organic Bulgarian Rose Water is world’s most exquisite 100% pure, natural, organic flower water. The beautiful fragrance, special qualities and plants’ synergy of our organic rose water are well known all over the world. Alteya’s Pure Organic Rose Water is Therapeutic and Food Grade product. By using a unique distillation … |
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John Masters Organics – Rose Foaming Face Wash, 4 fl oz liquid $22.00 Tranquility and calm for your skin is one of life’s ultimate rewards. When skin redness and irritation is relieved, your entire body relaxes. John Masters Organics Rose Foaming Face Wash is the most gentle of cleansers, yet also works to improve your skin. Soothing oils and extracts like Safflower Oil and Aloe Vera help increase water retention while pure Rose Hydrosol balances your skin and incre… |
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375 Essential Oils and Hydrosols $9.35 This thorough guide profiles 375 different essential oils according to botanical family, habit and growth, chemical components, and actions. Historical notes and lore, often from Chinese alchemy as well as western botanical sources, are featured. Essays on evergreens, lavender, chamomile, jasmine, and more fill out important categories. Graceful botanical illustrations illuminate the text…. |