Nature's Gift HYDROSOLS

HYDROSOL SAMPLER

One ounce each of five of our Hydrosols (our choice), bottled in plastic, for you to experience. A FREE atomizer top as our gift to you.  The selection normally includes Rose, Neroli, Lavender Mailette, Rose Geranium and Roman Chamomile, and is priced at $18.00. (Contents may vary depending on what we have in stock.)

If you wish to custom select the samples, the charge for a custom selection is $23.00. Be very sure to list the Hydrosols you want in the sampler in the Comments section of your order. Please do not request multiple samples of the same hydrosol. Our intent is to send samples of five different ones.  PLEASE NOTE:  We try to keep all our hydrosols in stock, and try to mark the Out Of Stock items OUT OF STOCK above.  Please list a "second choice" when listing the hydrosols for your custom sampler.  If you order an Out of Stock item, your entire order will be delayed while we email to ask your second choice.

Please note, our samplers include one atomizer top.  If you wish an atomizer for each sample, please order the additional atomizer tops while ordering your sampler.

Carrot Seed Hydrosol

Daucus carota, France, wildcrafted

Carrot Seed Hydrosol is the hydrosol of choice for aging skin. Carrot seed EO is recommended for treating wrinkles, scar tissue, etc., so it stands to reason that the hydrosol would be recommended for the same uses. Very gentle, with out the distinctive scent of the EO (actually, the hydrosol smells more like fresh carrots than the seed.), Carrot seed hydrosol makes a wonderful toner or gentle cleanser for mature skin. It is a great base for a homemade face cream.

Suzanne Catty recommends it's cellular regenerative powers for healing razor burn, abrasions, dermabrasion, etc. Jeanne Rose writes that it is anti-inflammatory and soothing to irritated, itchy dry skin, as well as for calming eczema and psoriasis.

Used internally, it is believed to cleanse and support the liver and gall bladder. I'm wondering if it might not aid irritable bowel syndrome.

CALENDULA HYDROSOL

Organically grown in the US; this herbal water from healing calendula officianalis blossoms is new to us.  The traditional healing uses of Calendula include healing cuts, scrapes and bruises, preventing infection and healing ulcerated skin.  It is known for its healing properties.  Suzanne Catty recommends using this lovely new hydrosol as a mouthwash for any sort of needed oral care.  She recommends internal use as treatment for irritable bowel, ulcers, or nausea.  She also recommends its use as a wash for any sort of yeast or urinary tract infections.

We recommend it as a marvelously gentle wash or toner for irritated skin.

(There are those, usually me among them, who say it can not be a true hydrosol if it is not produced by steam distillation also producing an essential oil.  Well, true, there is no steam distilled essential oil of calendula, only the CO2 extractions we offer, but this floral/herbal water is a true, naturally produced distillate of organically grown Calendula blossoms.)

(See also our Calendula-Chamomile Castile Soap!)

German Chamomile Hydrosol

It has been years since we've offered German Chamomile Hydrosol. In the past, what I have been able to source has been truly nasty smelling, although it worked wonders as an anti-inflammatory.  This new batch from a US distiller smells - like chamomile! 

This is what I wrote about German Chamomile Hydrosol on our website about five or six years ago:

This is the hydrosol I used to use to moisten baby wipes. It is cooling, soothing, and healing for baby's bottom, and for any skin irritation; the hydrosol of choice for irritated skin, rashes, etc. It also makes a wonderfully healing spray for a sunburn, when the sunburn hurts too much to touch. It is one of the hydrosols I recommend as a toner for skin with acne, and other problem conditions. German Chamomile Hydrosol's powerful anti-inflamatory action makes it the toner of choice for rosacea, couperose, and other inflamed skin conditions. We have seen amazing results from the regular use of this hydrosol as a soothing toner for inflamed skin. Try blending it with some green or white clay for a healing facial masque.

I would use German Chamomile hydrosol for burns, possibly mixed with an equal portion of Lavender hydrosol. Suzanne Catty recommends it in a poultice for swollen veins, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and thread veins, either alone, or blended with Witch Hazel or Cistus hydrosols. She recommends its internal use (both as a beverage or a douche) for candida, thrush, and vaginal infections, as well as internally for digestive spasms.

Roman Chamomile Hydrosol

Anthemis nobilis, French, Organic

Roman Chamomile Hydrosol is extraordinarily valuable ... soothing and relaxing. I know of nothing better to sooth dry, flaky, itchy skin, rashes, acne, eczema, etc. Skin problems including the mucus membranes, including mouth, gums, respiratory tract and anal and genital areas may safely be treated with this gentle and relaxing anti-inflammatory. A compress of Roman Chamomile gently eases a migraine, as well as easing tired eyes, and soothing inflammation of the eyes. Some authorities recommend it for intestinal spasms and urinary tract infections. The Essential Oil is known to be effective against muscle spasms. I personally take the Hydrosol orally for intestinal cramps and spasms. A pregnant friend used it as a sitz bath when she developed hemorrhoids. I use it to soothe 'sandpapery' eyelids when I've been on the computer too long, and to 'get the red out'.

Roman Chamomile water has been especially recommended for skincare for delicate complexions with allergic tendencies. A mild astringent, it is an excellent skin toner, but probably should not be used over the long term by very dry skin.  It's astringency would benefit oily or inflamed skin.

Roman Chamomile is also known for its calming, almost sedative qualities. A spritz of Roman Chamomile Hydrosol in the air can calm the crankiest two year old. My son and daughter in law were amazed at the change from 'cranky baby' to 'happy baby' when I sponged my grandson's face and arms with this wonderful liquid. I normally blended our Roman Chamomile and Lavender hydrosols for washing my grandbabies, or spritzed the crib sheet with the blend before putting them to bed.

Jeanne Rose suggests a spritz of Roman Chamomile Hydrosol in the mouth for easing teething pains.

Roman chamomile hydrosol is a wonderfully soothing stress reliever for adults, as well as children.

I personally have used this Roman Chamomile as an eyewash when my eyes were tired, itchy and irritated...when I felt like I might be starting to come down with conjunctivitis. Hindsight being 20/20, I would recommend making a compress of the hydrosol the next time.  There is too much risk of infection spraying anything in the eyes.

This is an especially exquisite French Roman Chamomile Hydrosol. The Essential Oil percentage in this hydrosol must be high; that is obvious from the aroma.

Cistus Hydrosol

Cistus ladanifer, Wild, Morocco

Wild crafted from the resin exuded by the leaves of the Rockrose.
All the aromatic and detoxifying benefits of Cistus essential oil, in a more affordable form. Wonderful added to a clay masque to detoxify the skin and/or the lymphatic system.

Suzanne Catty recommends Cistus hydrosol as an immune system booster, and to clean wounds, since its astringency can help stop bleeding as well as promote healing. She also recommends the use of the hydrosol in a douche (perhaps combined with Helichrysum) or internally to treat endometriosis.

She recommends Cistus hydrosol as a toner to help alleviate wrinkles, since one of its effects is to "plump up" skin cells and erase fine lines.

Energetically powerful, the hydrosol can have powerful emotional effects. I know of one therapist who uses Cistus hydrosol in a desktop water fountain when working with clients who have emotional blockages...like the essential oil, Cistus hydrosol seems to release what is blocked and warm what is frozen.

Clary Sage Hydrosol

Salvia sclaria, Cert. Organic, USA

The distiller sent me a sample of this delightful herbal water, and we had to have more. Then, after falling in love with it, of course I needed to learn what to use it for.

Gentle and delicious, tasting the way Bergamot essential oil smells, and reminiscent of Earl Grey Tea, Clary hydrosol is delicious added to ice water for a refreshing drink. I'm told it's another ingredient in May Wine (in addition to the better known sweet woodruff.)

Like the essential oil, Clary Sage hydrosol is a mood elevator. I would like to see it used with peppermint hydrosol (or alone) as a remedy for hot flashes.

Suzanne Catty recommends the internal use of Clary Sage Hydrosol for treating a range of PMS related difficulties...cramps, bloating, water retention, moodiness... as well as for treating menopausal symptoms. She also recommends using clary sage hydrosol during childbirth...a compress of eight ounces of the hydrosol, with three drops of Clary Sage oil and three drops of Blue Tansy oil (tanecetum anuum)... use as a warm compress on abdomen or lower back for relieving the pain of contractions.

For skincare, Catty recommends blending with peppermint, rose, or geranium hydrosol as a gently astringent toner.

Cornflower Hydrosol

It has been years since we've been able to offer this rare hydrosol and I'm delighted to be able to make it available again!

The first choice for swollen or itchy eyes, as a compress for a stye or conjunctivitis. An excellent choice for dry, devitalized, crepey, or mature skin. A general system tonic sometimes recommended for hot flashes (perhaps with a touch of peppermint added?) I have seen it recommended as a douche for reproductive or urinary tract infections. An excellent compress for bruises. Taken internally it is a mild diuretic. A wonderful toner for delicate skin, and a wonderful cleanser for baby's skin.

Please avoid Cornflower's use during the first three months of pregnancy. (I don't know why, but I've read that warning somewhere, and would rather be safe than sorry!)

Elderflower Hydrosol

Certified Organic - USA

This delightful distillate of Sambucus nigra may be used for eye compresses (to get the red out) or as a gently astringent skin toner.  The distiller blends it with Rose Geranium hydrosol for a delightfully floral facial spritz. 

In olden days, Elderflower water was recommended as a wash to clear the complexion of freckles. 

Elderflower tones and soothes irritated skin.  

It is a delightful flavoring to a glass of icewater.

Balsam Fir Hydrosol

Abies balsamea canadensis, Canada, Wild, organically certified

Brand new, from Canada, this wild crafted water from the steam distilled needles of abies balsamea is an emotional delight. Like the essential oil, it is the aroma of Christmas for those of us from the Northeast. Susan Catty recommends it strongly for the depression caused by SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder)...saying that some of this hydrosol added to a shower or bath once or twice a week will chase away the winter doldrums. She also recommends it in a compress for sore, aching joints or muscles, as a stimulating addition to a foot bath, She says that it is gently stimulating to the circulatory system, while at the same time calming the mind. Recommended for external use more than for internal.

Frankincense Hydrosol

Boswellia carterii Distilled from wild resin, collected in Somalia, distilled in the USA.

 We have sampled several Frankincense Hydrosols over the years, and all were disappointing.  Evidently they didn't travel well, and the trip from Africa was just too much.  Finally someone did it right...imported Frankincense Resin from Somalia (home of my favorite Frankincense Essential Oil) and distilled it in the United States.  If you love Frankincense,  you must experience this delightful distillate.

Suzanne Catty suggests its use in mouth or gum infections, perhaps as a gargle or rinse, perhaps combined with Helichrysum Hydrosol. She also suggests its use for infections of the reproductive and urinary systems, combined with Cistus.

 I plan to use it for skincare, Frankincense Essential oil is wonderful for mature skin and this gentle hydrosol should also be helpful.  Catty recommends its use as a toner to refine skin texture, or using it in face masks for an instant "face lift"  Combined with Cistus and other anti-aging hydrosols it should help keep wrinkles at bay.

Catty also recommends the use of Frankincense hydrosol in areas of high heat and humidity. 

Energetically it will be a wonderful preparation for meditation or energy and ritual work.

I think it will also make a wonderfully calming and grounding room spray and linen spray.  

Christi P. of Tennessee was the first to try it, and she writes:

From the moment I sampled the new Frankincense hydrosol, I immediately fell in love!  And after using it on my face for just one week and seeing the changes, it is without a doubt, my favorite Nature's Gift product of all-time. I was totally surprised at the results on my skin, because I was basically trying it as a toner to cool down my face in our hot and humid Southern weather before going to sleep. Being a red head, I have fair complexion & once I entered my mid 30s, began battling combination skin, which left my face looking uneven or ruddy so I would compensate with base & powder makeup.  Each day since I began using this incredible product, I've seen improvement.  All I do is put a small amount on a cotton ball each night and apply the hydrosol to problem areas on my face. I've had comments from friends and family about looking, "clearer," and "lighter," & I actually feel younger and rejuvenated from the results.  I've used many so-called skincare toners over the years which always ended up irritating my skin or with less than spectacular results.  My skin has responded better to the Frankincense hydrosol than any product I've ever tried & the scent is a perfect end to the day setting a "tone" for reflection, meditation, or prayer before sleeping.

Christi P.

Rose Geranium Hydrosol

Pelargonum graveolens, Certified Organic, USA

This hydrosol of Pelargonium graveolens is cooling for hot flashes, especially when blended with Peppermint Hydrosol, as either a spritzer or in a glass of cool water.

Geranium is thought to be a cellular regenerative, thus the hydrosol is the toner of choice for mature skin, or the perfect liquid to use in creating a facial masque. Like Geranium Essential Oil, Rose Geranium Hydrosol is recommended for balancing combination skin, since it balances both oily and dry skin. Suzanne Catty says that it is a humectant, wonderful for dry skin, or mixed into a clay and honey mask. She also recommends it as an anti-inflammatory, useful for sunburns, Rosacea, rashes, any condition where redness or heat is present. (I think blending with Helichrysum hydrosol or even Yarrow hydrosol would improve its anti-inflammatory properties, and the Rose Geranium would certainly improve the aroma of the Yarrow water!)

Emotionally, this lovely spray can bring balance to our psyches, it is said to balance female and male energies..

Helichrysum Hydrosol

Helichrysum italicum,  Organic, France

Helichrysum italicum essental oil is the most powerfully anti-inflammatory essential oil, and an essential component in Rosacea and bruise blends.

The gentler helichrysum hydrosol is the perfect toner for Rosacea, couperose (thread veins) and inflamed or irritated skin.

It is a wonderful cool compress for bruises, as well. Having seen how wonderful Helichrysum's essential oil is in healing scars, I'd suggest trying helichrysum hydrosol (perhaps blended with carrot seed hydrosol?) for treating acne scars.

We've used it diluted (and sometimes mixed with Tea Tree hydrosol) as a mouthwash after oral surgery or tooth extraction. Suzanne Catty recommends it as a mouthwash for gingivitis and/or receding gums.

If you often use helichrysum essential oil, then Helichrysum Hydrosol is a must have.

I've heard back from people using Helichrysum Hydrosol and Roman Chamomile hydrosol together to sooth sunburns, radiation burns, rashes, skin irritations of all types.  One client raves about the combination in keeping eczema manageable.  

In spite of its cost, Helichrysum Hydrosol has traditionally been our best selling hydrosol, month in, month out.  Nothing else that I know of is its match for gentle care for sensitive skin.

Our clients rave about the use of Helichrysum Hydrosol in treating rosacea, and in helping ease eczema.  You may read some of their comments on our "Helichrysum hydrosol and essential oil Healing" page.

Lavender Hydrosol

Lavender officianalis,   Lavandula angustifolia

See our two specimens of Organic Lavender Water, below

The following description applies to both the Lavender Hydrosols we currently offer, Lavender Mailette and Lavender Buena Vista.

The "all-purpose" Essential Oil plant also yields an "all purpose" Hydrosol. Lavender hydrosol is gentle, balancing for all skin types, cooling in summer's heat, soothing sunburns, healing irritation, gently tones oily, dry and mature skin, cleanses gently and safely. Lavender has always been recommended for fragile or damaged skin. The hydrosol makes a wonderful ingredient for face masks for all skin types, a gentle toner or cleanser; and a great mister to ease sunburn or windburn.

Emotionally, Lavender Water is relaxing and revitalizing. It can ease stress and reduce mental fatigue. Lavender is an "adaptor," adapting itself to your body and your psyche's needs, soothing or revitalizing as needed. Jeanne Rose recommends it as a remedy to jet lag.

This lovely floral water is a wonderful addition to creams and lotions, and Colleen K. Dodt recommends it for infant care.

I like to use it as a linen spray, just a tiny spritz on the pillow on a sleepless night.  One young friend uses it as "monster spray" when her little one is afraid of monsters under the bed or in the closet. Safe and gentle enough to let the child banish the monsters all by himself.

This is one hydrosol I don't use internally, whether full strength or diluted, I honestly don't enjoy its taste.

Please be aware that Lavender Hydrosol does not smell the same as the essential oil.  No hydrosol truly matches the EO that is produced with it, but Lavender seems to vary more widely.   The aroma probably differs because the linalyl acetate is not present in the water.  Shirley Price suggests adding a small amount of either Geranium or Peppermint hydrosol to improve the aroma.

Lavender Buena Vista - 2007

Lavender angustifolia, Organic, USA

 Freshly herbal with a slightly spicy after scent.  I think the men in the family will love this one.  Fresh and clean.  A beautiful specimen.

Lavender Mailette Hydrosol-2007

Lavender angustifolia, Organic, USA

Softly floral, rather than the herbal scent of the Buena Vista described above, this specimen is closer to the aroma of our  French Lavender Mailette essential oil.   Either will work beautifully for all the uses above.

Spike Lavender Hydrosol

Lavandula latifolia, Spanish, Wild

fresh, delightful, antibacterial.

Spike Lavender is the most powerfully antibacterial member of the Lavender family. We can see using this delightfully soft scented floral as a toner/wash for oily skin or acne.

Courtney tested it out with her teenaged brother and his friends...they all liked it, didn't think it smelled too "girly" for their use. We are experimenting with a blend of witch hazel (the kind from the drugstore, with alcohol added) and Spike Lavender Hydrosol for an aftershave for troubled skin.
We had expected this lovely water to smell camphorous, as does the oil which is its co-distillate, however, we were pleasantly surprised by the soft herbal scent that we all loved. Unanimously, we prefer its aroma to that of our true Lavender hydrosol.

We've heard that the hydrosol is also helpful in easing the symptoms of Psoriasis and Eczema, either used as a compress or as an ingredient in a lotion or cream.

Ledum Hydrosol

Ledum groenlandicum, Organic, Canada

Another new herbal water from Canada, Ledum groenlandicum, , often called Labrador Tea or Greenland Moss. Ledum is said to be a powerful detoxifier, and a support to both the liver and the immune system. Also said to stimulate lymphatic circulation. May have anti-inflammatory effects. Recommended for use during recuperation from major illness.

Like the rare essential oil that is its co-distillate, Ledum water is a powerful healers tool. We have only a limited amount.

(One client writes of using a spritz of ledum hydrosol on feet and ankles to help ease Restless Leg Syndrome.)

 Because of the strength of Ledum Hydrosol, we recommend avoiding its use during pregnancy or with small children.  If using internally, please use only half as much as you would any other hydrosol.

Lemon Verbena Hydrosol - Lippia citrodora

We've had so many requests for this lovely lemon herbal water we couldn't resist any longer.  Organically Certified from a master distiller in California, this is an aromatic delight!

Jeanne Rose recommends Lemon Verbena hydrosol for calming the nerves, as a sleep aid (when taken internally), or as a reviving and refreshing spritz when traveling.

Suzanne Catty calls it a powerful mental relaxant and "stress buster" and recommends its use for stage fright, pre-exam jitters, the kind of fear that creates a knot in ones stomach.  She says it helps boost self esteem and self confidence.  Because of its sedating qualities, if mental focus is required, she suggests blending it with a less sedating relaxant such as Neroli or Cistus hydrosols. 

Internally, Catty says that it can relieve PMS symptoms, and reduce cramps. 

The hydrosol has a wide range of uses, according to the above authors. One caveat, although I may be super vigilant: the pure essential oil of Lemon Verbena is proven to be a powerful sensitizer and should never be used topically.  Although lemon verbena hydrosol is recommended for use on oily, combination or problem skin, I hesitate to recommend it for skin care use, and topical use should be avoided with those who tend to become allergic or sensitized to fragrant materials.

Green Myrtle Hydrosol-Out of Stock

Myrtus communis, wild crafted, leaves

A wonderful eyewash for tired, irritated eyes. One of my friends used a bit of this healing hydrosol to self-treat a case of allergic conjunctivitis.

A strong expectorant, useful for bronchitis, allergies, etc. I add a spoonful to a water jug to loosen a dry cough. A bit stimulating, better to use in the morning than evening.

I find it helpful for the mental fatigue that can accompany allergies or chest colds. Helps me stay focused when I absolutely have to be productive.

Jeanne Rose recommends Myrtle Hydrosol as a toner for all skin types, saying that it is both reviving and refreshing.

Melissa Hydrosol

Melissa officianalis, USA Organic

Melissa is known for its anti-viral effects. The hydrosol may be of use in a compress to help ease the symptoms of shingles. The anti-viral power of Melissa Essential Oil is well documented. My supplier adds a teaspoon of the hydrosol to her water bottle every day during the flu and virus season. It is also often recommended to settle upset stomachs, recommended for both nausea and indigestion.

Melissa is a great toner/astringent for oily skin, as well. I don't recommend the essential oil in skin care since it can be irritating. This is where the gentleness of the hydrosol makes it the delivery method of choice. Hope uses it as a morning toner for her oily skin, and one client writes that it has helped her hormonal acne tremendously.

Jeanne Rose writes that Melissa hydrosol has powerful uses in skin care products, that it is antifungal, relieves skin infection and breakouts and can cure herpes. The hydrosol is considered useful in tonic drinks for 'attention deficit disorder' and dietary uses.

Shirley Price recommends Melissa Hydrosol for regulating irregular periods, relieving painful menses, and controlling PMS.

It has a brisk, lemon-like scent and flavor that I find refreshing and revitalizing

It is also recommended for times of emotional crisis. Emotionally, a spritz of Melissa hydrosol for the face or body may bring emotional calmness, soothing anger, and relieving insomnia. Melissa is both uplifting and antidepressant, as well as being relaxing. and yummy!

MYRRH Hydrosol

wildcrafted in Somalia, distilled in the USA

For years I've been saying that Myrrh Essential Oil is the perfect remedy for sore or inflamed gums, or any sore inside the mouth.  And I've been urged to source Myrhh Hydrosol for dental care.   We finally found one and couldn't resist it.

Tart and astringent in aroma, true to the resin from which it is distilled, this lovely hydrolat should be perfect for care of the gums and teeth.

For skincare, Myrrh hydrosol is a wonderful toner for oily skin, or skin troubled by acne.  Its astringency and antibacterial effects are wonderful for troubled skin.

Neroli Hydrosol

Citrus aurantium, Organic, France

This imported hydrosol, distilled from the blossoms of the Bitter Orange tree, smells the way orange blossoms should, mild and sweet enough to drink. I have been using it as a cologne to echo my Reunité blend (which I often wear as perfume.) I spray it in the room when any of us are feeling anxious or stressed. Instant release. Some of my friends have talked about making a sorbet of a blend of the rose and Neroli hydrosols. (Perhaps we need to contact Ben and Jerry's?). A spritz or two in a glass of spring water is soothing and emotionally settling. Wonderful stuff! (I like a drop added to a cup of black sweet coffee, and always thought it was weird, until I recently read that Neroli can help calm "coffee jitters", not that I'm ever jittery, of course!)

A client mentioned that she uses a spritz of this to calm her cat when it needs a trip to the vet. My daughter the groomer took this idea and ran with it; she uses the Neroli Hydrosol to calm nervous animals before bathing/grooming them. Says it works like a charm!

Another friend reports using Neroli Hydrosol as a body spray during her daughter's labor and delivery. The new mother stayed cool and calm, the Neroli helped immensely. This same friend reports that using as a toner, on a regular basis, seems to be helping with thread veins (couperose). Shirley Price recommends Neroli water for people suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder or to relieve stress or emotional upsets.No end to the uses of this sweetly scented floral water. 

Neroli hydrosol is mildly astringent and may be the hydrosol of choice for oily skin. If it is your choice,  try blending it with rose, chamomile or geranium. It is superb for oily or acnied skin.  Anita Ink recently wrote: "I have combination skin, and have found the neroli hydrosol to be a good toner and balancer for both the oily and drier areas.  In the dry areas it smooths and polishes my skin without excessive tightening, and I follow that with a light moisturizer.  In the oily areas I use several spritzes of neroli and rub it in well.  It really tightens the pores and gently clears any oily debris that might be lurking under the surface.  Makes skin care ultra easy...and fun!"

One friend uses either a spray of Neroli Hydrosol or a dampened cloth to wipe her toddler's face to ease him out of a temper tantrum. Price recommends its use for over-excited babies, since it is calming without causing sleepiness.

Oregano Hydrosol

Oreganum vulgaris, Wild, Turkey

Much has been written (elsewhere) about the antibacterial properties of Turkish Oregano Oil. There are those who recommend internal use of the diluted essential oil for any and all medical conditions. (I don't, but that's another story!) However, it seems to me that if one were to want the germ killing effects of Oregano oil, this gentle hydrosol would be a much safer and more effective way to experience them. Much gentler and lighter in aroma than the essential oil it still is definitely oregano scented, but lighter. yummy!

I can see using this hydrosol as a mouthwash, as a gargle for sore throats. Moisten a clay mask to apply its antibacterial effect to acne. If one of our fur family ever develops a cut that could become effected, this would be the wound-cleaner I would reach for. Internally it has been traditionally used in the Near East as a daily beverage to aid digestion. It is a general health tonic.

OWYHEE HYDROSOL

Artemisia ludoviciana type latiloba CT Esters

Organically grown and distilled, this sweetly scented floral water from a uniquely American artemesia species is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and a delight for both the skin and the spirits.  The essential oil is very high in esters, which carry over into the hydrosol during the distillation process.

Jeanne Rose states that this new hydrosol is a wonderful substitute for Roman Chamomile, and is both soothing and mildly sedating.  She suggests that Owyhee Hydrosol has powerful uses for skin care and in custom body care products.  There are applications in skin care for healing inflamed skin, as a soothing facial spray, and that it is great as a fragrant mister on bed linens for scent and sleep.

Peppermint Hydrosol

Mentha x piperita, Cert. Organic, USA

This delightfully mild hydrosol from an Organic farmer in the Midwest is that rarest of goodies, an organic Midwestern mint. She doesn't produce enough of her lovely distillate to offer us an organic essential oil, but the hydrosol alone is well worth the search.

Gentle and delicious, I would, first of all, use this lovely herbal water chilled in ice water after a full dinner, or to calm an upset stomach. A wonderful "spritzer" in the car to both keep the driver alert, and allay any chance of carsickness among the passengers.

I would recommend blending it with Rose Geranium Hydrosol to counteract or minimize "Power Surges". I plan on adding a few drops of it to a pitcher of lemonade or iced tea when the weather warms up. Mint's astringency should make it the perfect summer toner for oily skin. There is no end to the uses I can think of for this one!

I'm grateful to the new friend who produces it, and the old friend who introduced us! More affordably priced than the nonorganic Spearmint hydrosol we used to offer, and better flavored, as well.

Other suggested uses: Peppermint Hydrosol is a great mouthwash/breath freshener, I've seen it recommended as a coffee substitute when you need a quick energy lift, a mild antiseptic, it will gently ease the itch of rashes and stings, a great, soothing after shave, easing razor burn. It's helpful in combating a hangover, since it both settles the stomach and energizes. Wonderful at settling an upset stomach, and added to cold water Peppermint hydrosol is the ultimate thirst quencher. Suzanne Catty recommends its internal use in combating the effects of IBS or Crohn's Disease. (Please consult her book Hydrosols, The Next Aromatherapy for details on internal use for treating serious medical conditions.) Applied topically, either as a spray or with a moist compress, it is a wonderful "de-itcher" for mosquito bites, poison ivy, or any sort of itching.

Unlike most of our hydrosols, I would not recommend using this with children. I'd avoid using it with toddlers

Rosa Alba (White Rose) Hydrosol

Rosa alba, Organic, Bulgaria

Many of you already love our Bulgarian Rose Hydrosol. This White Rose hydrosol, on the other hand, is richer, deeper, more intense, and yet somehow clearer, more innocent feeling than that of the red rose. So I splurged on a little bit of it because I love it so. We can only offer this lovely rarity while supplies last.

The Alba Rose is a descendant of the antique Rosa gallica, a sweetly scented ancient rose.

Rose Hydrosol

Rosa damascena, Organic, Bulgaria

Rosewater has been used through the millenniums for religious ceremonies, as a courtesy to guests, for physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. Today, the best rose hydrosol is distilled in Bulgaria, although France also has a thriving rosewater industry.

Rose hydrosol is wonderful in homemade skin care products. It can be used by itself as a toner, used to moisten a mask, or used in place of water in lotions or cosmetics recipes. Rosewater stimulates the skin, heightening the blood flow. Experts disagree about using it on extraordinarily sensitive skin. Rosewater controls and balances sebum production, making it useful for both dry and oily skin. It can balance and restore the skin's Ph and helps tighten pores. Its antibacterial properties help fight acne giving troubled skin a gentle, rather than a harsh treatment. It is reputed to be useful in the treatment of all sorts of dermatitis. Suzanne Catty recommends blending Rose Hydrosol with Cistus Hydrosol as an anti-wrinkle treatment.

In Bulgaria, there is much scientific research being done about the therapeutic and medicinal benefits of Rosewater indicates that Rosewater, taken internally. is effective against strep and staph infections, among many others. Rosewater has been recommended as a gargle or throat spray for sore or inflamed throats.

Rose Hydrosol is a wonderful woman's tool for healing. It may be used externally, as a facial or body spray, or in a compress. Some recommend taking a teaspoon of the hydrosol to calm stress and anxiety. Others recommend a rosewater douche as a treatment for frigidity; it seems to act on both the body and the psyche to gently bring down barriers. Catty recommends taking Rose Hydrosol internally to help balance female hormones. She writes that by helping balance the endocrine system it can combat PMS, menstrual cramps and moodiness, as well as assist during menopause.

Rosemary Verbenon Hydrosol

Rosemarinus officinalis var Verbenon, California, ethically farmed

Excellent for skincare, Rosemary Verbenon Hydrosol is said to work on the middle layers of the skin, calming irritation and skin problems "from the inside out."  In steam or a warm compress it is recommended to help bring skin impurities to the surface and decongest clogged pores.  Rosemary Verbenon hydrosol has very strong antioxidant properties and is a free-radical scavenger.  Nelly Grosjean recommends it as a skin regenerator. We recommend it as a part of any anti-aging routine.

Jeanne Rose says that this softly scented herbal water is a gentle tonic for all skin types, it is antifungal (all external uses) and can be taken internally for anti-aging, liver problems and candida.  Catty says that it works on the middle layer of the skin, calming irritation from the inside out.  Us it in a steam or hot compress to bring impurities to the surface and decongest clogged pores.  She suggests combining it with Rose geranium, melissa, roman chamomile, and carrot seed hydrosols for skin rejuvenation.

Susanne Catty recommends taking Rosemary Verbenon Hydrosol internally for treating the respiratory system and problems of congestion and mucous. She also recommends its use in a hot compress over and/or around the ear to aid with ear infections.

Read more about these, and our other hydrosols on our descriptive hydrosol listing.

White Sage Hydrosol

Salvia apiana. Ecocert Organic, Canadian

Brand new, from Canada, a potent herbal distillate from the distiller of our White Sage Oil. This is the most aromatically powerful hydrosol I have ever encountered. (One of my staff commented that she has seen samples of essential oil come through here that were less intense, aromatically.) This is the desert sage that has been used for millennium by Native Americans for ritual, smudging and healing. Those sensitive to the energetics of the oils and hydrosols will be amazed by this White Sage water...and find a hundred uses for it. We already are using it to clear crystals, Debi is going to use it instead of smudging when she's in a place that burning sage is not advisable. (setting off the smoke alarm in a hotel room is not the way to endear yourself to the staff.)

Suzanne Catty recommends Sage Hydrosol as a hormone balancer, useful for PMS and menopausal symptoms.

I have seen Sage Hydrosol recommended for treating oily skin and acne.  Its antiseptic properties would help with eczema and other skin conditions as well. Price states that it is both astringent and antiseptic, suitable for treating acne and very oily skin.  She writes that it also improves the appearance of mature and inflamed skin.

Shirley and Len Price recommend gargling with Sage Hydrosol to soothe and heal a sore throat.  They also recommend it as an aid against hot flashes, during menopause.

WARNING: Jeanne Rose says that the hydrosol of Salvia officianalis (sage, but not white sage) must be avoided whenever there is high blood pressure, that its use, in any dilution, will raise blood pressure.  I am not certain whether the warning would apply to White Sage or not, but caution should be used.

Black Spruce Hydrosol

Picea mariana. Organic Canadian

Brand new, from Canada, a delightful water distilled from the branches of wildcrafted Pinea mariana.. I ordered the hydrosol because after my recent bout of pneumonia, I found I could not get enough of our Black Spruce essential oil, so I've been taking the hydrosol internally in spring water. Susan Catty recommends Black Spruce for boosting the immune system, as well as for the respiratory system, so it seemed the perfect remedy for what ailed me.

Ms. Catty recommends Black Spruce hydrosol to revive the adrenals in times of stress, and as a compress to ease painful and inflamed joints. She also recommends a spritzer of black spruce and peppermint hydrosols to tone the breasts...to "add visibly and not insignificantly to both the size and the tone of the breast tissue". I'd love feedback from someone who tries this.

She goes on to write that Black Spruce is a stimulating and restorative body spray and good aftershave that can connect us with the ancient wisdom of the trees.

St. John's Wort Hydrosol

Hypericum perforatum, Cert. Organic, USA

New and experimental. This is a newly produced hydrosol, and it remains unclear how many qualities of the herb come through the process of steam distillation. I have read that the hydrosol is proving to be a mild euphoric, perhaps useful in cases of Seasonal Affective Disorder, and of asthenia.

Taken internally it is a mild laxative and is said to be very effective in combating intestinal spasms and colic.

And speaking of spasms, one client recently wrote that she was suffering from severe muscle spasms.  She tried spritzing chilled St. John's Wort Hydrosol "where it hurt" and was amazed at the immediate relief she experienced.

It is a wonderful skin toner, healing, regenerative and soothing, softening and clarifying the complexion. We have always recommended (and had wonderful feedback) the use of Helichrysum Hydrosol for Rosacea...I'd like to see some of our clients with Rosacea try St. John's Wort as an alternative. Anita Ink recently wrote:

I've been using the St. Johns Wort hydrosol on cotton compresses for irritated eyes--it\'s very refreshing and helps reduce redness.

Suzanne Catty writes that internal use of the hydrosol has shown effects in easing back pain, and improving the overall well being of those suffering chronic back pain.

Unlike other forms of the herb, the hydrosol does not seem to present any problems with photosensitivity.

Blue Tansy Hydrosol

Wild, Morocco, Tanecetuum anuum

Our Tanecetuum Anuum essential oil is one of the most powerful, and yet the sweetest smelling of the anti-inflammatory "blue" oils. It functions, in skincare, as an anti-inflammatory skin soother...but smells sweet and fruity, unlike the other high azulene oils.

Now, I love the use of the hydrosols of the blue oils in skincare... but in total honesty, their aroma is less than pleasant. It can be hard to get past the scent of German Chamomile Hydrosol. My British Distiller doesn't even save the distillate...says "it smells so bad no one will buy it" and our German Chamomile hydrosol was not a good seller. So many people ordered it and loathed it that we finally had to discontinue it.

Drum roll please. Blue Tansy Hydrosol smells as sweet as honeyed cider. One wants to drink the stuff. (please don't! I've tasted it, and it's bitter and soapy and nasty tasting.) But it SMELLS wonderful. The producer recommends its use for redness, rashes, burns, eczema and psoriasis. I would use it for allergic dermatitis, since Tanecetuum anuum can have an anti-allergic effect. (Some clients diffuse the oil to help prevent seasonal allergies.)  I would use this delightfully sweet water for sunburn, for any sort of burn or skin irritation, for Rosacea, for any condition involving inflammation of the skin. I suspect it would also be helpful for insect bites, rashes, heat rash, etc.
My mentor Sylla used a combination of Helichrysum italicuum and Tanecetuum anuum essential oils diluted in a water spray. while undergoing radiation treatments to protect her skin. She said at the time she didn't know of a source for the two hydrosols that she could trust. Today, if I were in that situation, these are the gentle hydrosols I would reach for.

I've made this highly scented sweet water into a lotion in the past. Courtney raves about it for any sort of itchiness or rash, or dermatitis.  She hordes the little bit she has left and is waiting for more of the hydrosol to arrive so I can make more.

Tea Tree Hydrosol

Melaleuca alternifolia, Organic, Australia

All the anti-fungal, anti-bacterial effects of Tea Tree Essential Oil in a gentle, safe hydrosol. The leaves were distilled for the hydrosol, rather than for the oil, by a master distiller.

I can think of so very many uses for this delicately herbal scented hydrosol. A superb toner for acned skin; a mouthwash for infection or for thrush, a baby wipe if baby has a yeast infection, a deodorant spray, a base for a foot spray, washing out wounds or cuts, treating hotspots on dogs or cats...the list goes on.

Jenine Stanley writes of using our Tea Tree hydrosol in caring for her dogs.  She writes: 
Tea tree hydrosol is the best thing to dry out, disinfect and generally clear up oozing nasty hot spots, those patches of skin your dog just loves to chew until raw. Tea tree hydrosolis also an incredible ear wash for killing yeast in dogs' ears. You can tell if your dog has yeast as a part of the gunk in the ear if the discharge coming from the ear has a sweet almost rancid smell and is crusty.

I saturate several cotton balls with the tea tree hydrosol and clean the ear as usual. If the ear is very crusty or moist, I will apply the hydrosol directly to the inside of the ear. You want to do this outside and allow your dog to shake its head to clear the debris and excess liquid.

Both of our dogs are male, but friends tell me the tea Tree hydrosol also works to rid female dogs of yeast infections in the vulva. Simply wash that area thoroughly with the hydrosol. For male dogs, some hydrosol on a cloth can help decrease the urine smell around the back legs and stomach."

Witch Hazel Hydrosol

Hammemelis virginiana, USA

Soothing and anti-inflammatory, anti fungal and anti-bacterial. A wonderful toner for teenage skin, as well as a free radical scavenger recommended for anti-aging skin treatments. One of my mentors uses Witch Hazel Hydrosol in all of her creams and lotions for mature skin. I've read that Witch hazel and Rose hydrosols, combined, is a delightful and easy to make skin toner.

Often recommended for use in a compress or sitz bath for varicose veins and hemorrhoids, we have found it useful for fungal infections in "delicate" places when no other remedy seems to help.

Suzanne Catty says Witch Hazel hydrosol is the most antioxidant of the hydrosols and recommends it for psoriasis, eczema, cracked or blistered skin, for treating insect bites, and as the treatment of choice for varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

This bears no resemblance at all to the witch hazel in alcohol that is available at your local drug store. Soft and soothing, with, of course, no "alcohol" sting.

Vitex Hydrosol (Chasteberry leaves and berries)

Organically grown in the US, Vitex Hydrosol is the safer, gentler version of  Vitex Essential Oil .  The distiller recommends Vitex Hydrosol for internal use (starting with one teaspoon a day in a bottle of water, working up to one tablespoonful [1/2 fl oz] as needed) for easing both PMS and menopausal symptoms.  She says her clients swear by it.  So far the feedback we have received has been positive.

Yarrow Hydrosol

Achillea millefolium, Canada, Certified Org..

This cleansing and astringent hydrosol is wonderful added to a sitz bath or compress for varicose veins or cellulite. Its cleansing and detoxifying actions make it one of the toners of choice for skin with acne. Also useful as an anti-inflammatory for inflamed or irritated skin (although I would reach for witch hazel or one of our chamomiles for that.)

Suzanne says that used internally or in a compress it improves digestion, quickly relieving indigestion and heartburn, and recommends its internal use as a liver cleanse. She also says that in a compress, Yarrow Hydrosol will help remove accumulation of fluid, from edema or injuries.

My source says this is a highly energetic hydrosol, useful in spiritual healing work, that it provides mental calmness and helps one find peace. It is also recommended for cleansing the aura and cleansing crystals.

It has recently come to my attention that Yarrow hydrosol is almost a miracle cure for any sort of itching skin condition. It almost instantly soothes the itch of insect bites, eczema, poison ivy, sunburn... a wonderfully effective skin soother. I've heard that the hydrosol, used as a compress or as the water phase of a lotion is effective in treating both psoriasis and eczema, soothing the itch, and calming inflammation, and assisting the basal cells of the skin in healing.  Jeanne Rose recommends using Yarrow Hydrosol for acne and for damaged skin.

Ginger Root Hydrosol

Organically grown  Ginger Roots, carefully harvested in Indonesia, flown to Canada  and distilled there by an organically certified master distiller, this wonderful digestive hydrosol is a delightful taste treat.

Hope didn't want to try this one, she's not a ginger lover and was afraid it would be too hot, so I got to be the brave one. yummmm ginger without the burn. Mildly spicy, it's delicious.

Airsickness, carsickness, Morning Sickness, any sort of nausea or indigestion can be soothed by Ginger's stomachic properties. We take a half teaspoonful at a time; I'm thinking of tiny crystal liqueur glasses half filled with this wonderful hydrosol to be passed after Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner, or any other time that folks are apt to eat too much rich food.

I think it's gentle warmth would make it a great addition to a compress for painful rheumatic joints, as well, but as costly as it is, we are saving ours for internal use. Order yours now to top off your holiday dinners. As with any hydrosol used internally, it should be refrigerated for safety.