When plant material is steam distilled to produce an essential oil, the water that comes off of the process has a considerable amount of essential oil in it…that water is known as a hydrolat. An important clarification…previously, we described this product as a “hydrosol”. However, we have recently learned that some producers are adding chemicals such as alcohol to the distillation water (perhaps to extend shelf-life) and marketing it as a hydrosol. So, we have moved away from using the term hydrosol, and have embraced the term commonly used in Europe, “hydrolat”, to describe the pure, unadulterated product.

Hydrolats are commonly used as room fresheners, for toning and moisturizing the skin, and as wound healers.