A safe and gentle (and less expensive) alternative to the use of rare EO's are Hydrosols, a by-product of the steam distillation process that produces the Essential Oils we use.
During the distillation procedure that yields the Essential Oils, the steam containing the oils is chilled, thus turning into water, with a layer of EO floating on top.
The Essential Oils are skimmed off and bottled for our use. In cases the remaining water is just discarded. Though, this water contains both minute molecules of the Essential Oil, as well as all the water soluble elements of the plant that are not present in the Oil.
The 'misters' that you find in the store have their uses. Often they are made of distilled or pure spring water with a few drops of the appropriate Essential Oil added. You can make and use them yourself, for room scenting, for disinfecting, etc. However they aren't to be confused with a true hydrosol, which can contain many other therapeutic benefits.
Hydrosols have lots of uses. They may compliment the EO's, as well as extend the scope of the oils themselves. Also they allow us to experience some of the benefits of, for example, true bulgarian rose oil at a much more affordable price.
Sample uses:
- use Helichrysum Hydrosol to sooth the redness of rosacea or other skin inflammations.
- a spritz of Yarrow Hydrosol sooths and heals hot spots on my tiny pomeranian. (Max is far to small for me to use essential oils on his skin.)
- Neroli Hydrosol was what my daughter-in-law Hope carried on the plain to ease her 'fear of flying' and to keep the dry airplane air breathable.
- Rose Hydrosol is both a facial toner and a wonderful linen spray.
- Lavender or Chamomile hydrosols can soothe a sunburn or also function as a relaxing 'monster spray' to banish night-time monsters.
- Chilled peppermint hydrosol is the ultimate summer cooler, either spritzed on, or a bit added to a bottle of spring water.
- Rose Geranium hydrosol is said to calm 'power surges'...Jeanne Rose suggests blending it with one of the mints.
- Melissa Hydrosol is a wonderful 'blotter' for oily skin.
- Spike lavender or tea tree hydrosols both make gentle antibacterial toners for skin with acne.
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