Understanding Hydrosols

When most people think of plant medicine or aromatherapy, essential oils come to mind. These tiny glass bottles packed with powerful aromatic compounds dominate wellness aisles and natural beauty routines. Yet there’s a gentler, often overlooked sibling to essential oils: hydrosols.

Also known as “floral waters” or “water distillates,” hydrosols capture the essence of plants in a softer, safer, and more approachable form. They are easy to make at home, endlessly versatile, and perfectly positioned between the world of teas and tinctures on one side and essential oils on the other. From aromatherapy to flavor enhancers, these aromatic waters can offer so much for all aspects of wellness.

What Are Hydrosols?

Hydrosols are the water-based byproduct of steam distillation. When plant material is heated with water, steam rises, carrying volatile aromatic molecules with it. Once cooled, the process separates into two parts: essential oil floating on top and aromatic water below. The aromatic water is hydrosol.

Hydrosols contain a delicate concentration of plant constituents (usually less than 1%), making them safe to use directly on the skin or in food preparation. In comparison, essential oils are considered extremely potent, as they are as concentrated as possible for the parts of the plant captured through distillation. The water that remains, however, has just a whisper of those fragrant oils, which makes them very handy for myriad uses.

Historically, hydrosols have been used in traditional medicine and perfumery across cultures. Rosewater, for example, is a staple in Middle Eastern and South Asian kitchens as well as a beauty ritual dating back to ancient Persia. Chamomile water was prized in Europe for calming the skin and soothing children. These timeless applications highlight hydrosols’ unique appeal: they’re gentle enough for daily use yet potent enough to deliver therapeutic benefits.

Hydrosols and Other Extraction Methods

Hydrosols sit in a unique position among botanical preparations. At one end of the spectrum are herbal teas, which extract water-soluble compounds but lose volatile aromatics to evaporation. This is often why herbalists will tell you to steep your tea covered: it captures some of those aromatics and infuses them into the drink.

Tinctures, made with alcohol, capture a broader range of phytochemicals and are much stronger, but often alcohol is not desired or must be avoided. Essential oils, highly concentrated and fat-soluble, deliver intense aromas but can be irritating and even dangerous if misused.

Hydrosols occupy the middle ground: more nuanced and aromatic than tea, but far gentler than tinctures or oils. They allow everyday enjoyment of plant medicine without risk of overpowering the senses.

RELATED RECIPE: Infused Water

Hydrosol Uses

The beauty of hydrosols lies in their versatility. Because they are water-based and mild, they can be used across culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic realms without the safety concerns that come with concentrated essential oils.

Culinary Applications

Hydrosol is a hidden gem in the kitchen. Rose or orange blossom water adds floral notes to desserts, syrups, and beverages. Lavender hydrosol can elevate lemonade or mocktails with a refreshing herbal twist. A splash of rosemary hydrosol in salad dressings adds brightness without overwhelming the palate. Their subtlety makes them ideal for experimentation, especially when you just want a whisper of flavor.

Medicinal Uses

Gentle yet effective, hydrosols can be used much like herbal teas, but with the added benefit of aromatics. Chamomile or calendula hydrosols have potential as skin-soothing sprays for sunburn or minor irritations.¹ Peppermint hydrosol can cool overheated skin or act as a refreshing mouth rinse.

Because they contain only trace amounts of volatile compounds, hydrosols are often safe for children, the elderly, and even pets, making them an accessible form of herbal care.

Beauty and Self-Care

Hydrosols shine in personal care. They make excellent facial toners, delivering hydration without alcohol or synthetic fragrance.¹ Rosewater has long been beloved for its ability to soften and refresh skin.² Lavender hydrosol can double as a pillow spray to promote sleep or as an after-sun mist. Rosemary hydrosol can be used as a scalp rinse to enliven hair and support circulation.³ With no need for dilution, they are simple ways to incorporate botanicals into daily rituals.

RELATED: Natural Remedies for Better Skin & Hair

How to Make Hydrosol

Making a hydrosol at home doesn’t require specialized distillation equipment. With a few household items, anyone can capture the aromatic waters of plants. The simplest method is sometimes called the “pot-in-pot” technique.

1. Place fresh or dried plant material in a large pot and add enough water to cover it by 1-2 inches. Don’t worry if some of the plant floats.
2. Set a smaller, heat-safe bowl inside the pot for collecting condensation. The lip of the bowl should be above the water line and not touching the sides of the pot. It may be helpful to put it on top of another inverted (and heat-safe) bowl to get it closer to the rim of the pot.
3. Take a fitted pot lid and invert it so it curves downward. Place it on top of the pot and add ice. As the water heats, steam rises, condenses on the cool lid, and will drip into the collection bowl.
4. Bring the water to a gentle simmer and heat until all the ice has melted. If you want to continue making more or feel the herbs are still giving off an aroma, you can replace the ice and keep simmering.
5. Once off heat and cooled to room temperature, remove the inverted lid and retrieve the collection bowl from the pot. There may be an ounce or more of hydrosol, depending on the length of boiling time.
6. Store hydrosol in a sterile container and keep refrigerated.

When getting started, it’s easiest to use aromatic herbs you’re familiar with like lavender, rose petals, mint, chamomile, or rosemary. Hydrosols should be stored in sterilized glass bottles and kept cool and out of direct sunlight for longest shelf life.

Often, without preservatives, external-use hydrosols can last three to six months. If ingesting, however, discard after one to two weeks of refrigeration out of an abundance of caution for potential microbial growth.

See Which Hydrosol You Like Best

Hydrosols are one of nature’s most approachable extractions that are simple to make and endlessly adaptable. They bring the beauty of plants into the kitchen, medicine cabinet, or vanity table with ease. For anyone curious about exploring herbalism or aromatherapy, hydrosols offer the perfect entry point. Try starting with a favorite herb, distill a batch at home, and discover the quiet elegance of these aromatic waters for yourself.

References

1. Olivero-Verbel, J., Quintero-Rincón, P., & Caballero-Gallardo, K. (2024). Aromatic plants as cosmeceuticals: benefits and applications for skin health. Planta, 260(6), 132. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11538177/
2. Wang, H. (2023). Beneficial medicinal effects and material applications of rose. Heliyon, 10(1), e23530. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10758878/
3. Bin Rubaian, N., Alzamami, H., & Amir, B. (2024). An Overview of Commonly Used Natural Alternatives for the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia, with Special Emphasis on Rosemary Oil. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, Volume 17, 2495–2503. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11549889/