Sometimes you will hear the terms hydrosol and spritzer used interchangeably which is incorrect and misleading. Although true hydrosols are the original true floral waters (or herbal waters), be aware that any product sold as a "Floral Water" may or may not be a natural product. The term floral water could refer to a true distillate, but is just as apt to refer to a product containing nothing but synthetic fragrances in a chemical base.
That being the case, you may be wondering what the difference is between a true hydrosol and a spritzer or mister with a combination of water and essential oils. In reality, there is a huge difference. The 'misters' or 'spritzers' that you find in the store or even make at home, have their uses. They often are made of distilled or pure spring water with a few drops of the appropriate Essential Oil added and sometimes used for room scenting, for disinfecting, etc. But they aren't to be confused with a true hydrosol, which can contain many other therapeutic benefits.
Hydrosols are a by-product of the steam distillation process that produces the essential oils we use, and a safe, gentle, and less expensive alternative to the oils as well. During the distillation process that yields the Essential Oils (EOs), the steam containing the oils is chilled, thus turning into water, with a layer of EO floating on top. The EO's are skimmed off and bottled for our use. In some cases the remaining water is just discarded. However, 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.
Hydrosols have many uses. They can compliment the EO's, as well as extend the scope of the oils themselves. They also allow us to experience some of the benefits of, for example, true Bulgarian Rose oil at a much more affordable price. Hydrosols are a less expensive way to 'back up' the EO's that you use.
True, natural hydrosols contain no preservatives, should be treated as perishable, and constantly stored under refrigeration to maintain freshness & sterility. Shelf life varies based on a number of unpredictable factors including storage, age, and sometimes even the particular crop in a particular year. For safety, keep hydrosols refrigerated, and watch for any changes that might indicate the product has gone bad. Remember, true hydrosols are natural, preservative free products.
Nature’s Gift Aromatherapy offers a large selection (over 30) of all natural true hydrosols. Sample uses include: Helichrysum Hydrosol to sooth the redness of rosacea or other skin inflammations. Try Yarrow Hydrosol to treat hot spots on dogs, and Neroli Hydrosol for nervousness when flying or other anxious situations. (Some women giving birth find Neroli helpful to ease fears in the delivery room.)
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 or bad dreams for children. 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” of energy. Melissa Hydrosol is a wonderful 'blotter' for oily skin and contains antiviral properties. Witch Hazel or Tea Tree hydrosols both make gentle antibacterial toners for skin with acne.
This is just a small sampling of the uses available for hydrosols. For more information about hydrosols, essential oils, or aromatherapy, visit www.naturesgift.com.
Over 15 years experience sourcing, selecting and making available highest quality therapeutic essential oils and aromatherapy products, founder of Nature's Gift, Inc., author of Essential Oils and Aromatics.