],"entityMap":{},"VERSION":"9.6.3"}'>I often hear about handicraft enthusiasts joining various DIY workshops or distilling hydrosols at home. Indeed, distilling hydrosols by hand is a very interesting activity. Making your own hydrosol is both fun and ensures freshness, making it a great choice. However, there are some things to keep in mind so that you don't turn a good thing into a bad one.
],"entityMap":{},"VERSION":"9.6.3"}'>
],"entityMap":{},"VERSION":"9.6.3"}'>
],"entityMap":{},"VERSION":"9.6.3"}'>
What is a hydrosol?
A Hydrosol is a byproduct of the essential oil distillation process, where essential oils float on the surface while water settles at the bottom. Essential oils, having different densities, float on top, while the water settles below; the water beneath the essential oil is called a hydrosol. In addition to containing a small amount of essential oil components, hydrosols also contain many water-soluble plant nutrients, which have a conditioning effect on the skin and are highly skin-friendly. The scent is similar to, but not exactly the same as, essential oils. Hydrosols are very gentle and can be safely used on pregnant women, children, and animals. They contain no additives, are not diluted with water, and have no preservatives, which is why they have always had many supporters.
High-quality raw materials are key
The distillation methods for home-distilled hydrosols are much the same as non-home distillation methods. There are a few points to note:
- Distillation must use pure water.
- Equipment must be sterilized first; failure to do so will affect the quality of the hydrosol.
- Produce in small quantities to ensure quality.
- If using fresh flowers as raw materials, they must be thoroughly washed with clean water.
- Choose appropriate raw materials. Not all plants have skincare benefits.
- Hydrosols should be stored away from light. Use brown or dark blue bottles to store them. This prevents sunlight from damaging and spoiling the distilled hydrosol.
Do not use ornamental flowers as raw materials for distillation
,{"key":"ecv3v","text":"2. Most flowers generally available at flower markets are intended for ornamental purposes and therefore may contain pesticides and insecticides. If fragrant plants contain pesticides, they will definitely remain after distillation because most pesticides are water-soluble. Therefore, it is not recommended to purchase them for skincare purposes.","type":"unstyled","depth":0,"inlineStyleRanges":[],"entityRanges":[],"data":{"textAlignment":"justify"}}],"entityMap":{},"VERSION":"9.6.3"}'>
1. Take roses, for example; there are already many different varieties. Roses are among the world's most famous ornamental plants, but not all varieties have skincare benefits. Those commonly found in flower markets, such as Kenyan or Kunming roses, have a delicate fragrance. They are quite good for spraying in a space as indoor fragrance.
2. Most flowers generally available at flower markets are intended for ornamental purposes and therefore may contain pesticides and insecticides. If fragrant plants contain pesticides, they will definitely remain after distillation because most pesticides are water-soluble. Therefore, it is not recommended to purchase them for skincare purposes.