Product Field NotesBath & Body
Lavender Hydrosol: The Gentle Floral Water Left After Distilling
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When lavender is distilled, the essential oil gets most of the attention. The Lavender Hydrosol is the quieter half of the process: the fragrant floral water left behind once the oil is collected. We think it is one of the nicest things a lavender field can give you, and it means nothing from the still goes to waste.
How hydrosol is made
In steam distillation, steam passes through lavender and carries the plant's aromatic compounds into a condenser. As the vapor cools, two things collect: a thin layer of essential oil and a much larger amount of fragrant water. That water is the hydrosol. It holds a gentle version of the plant's scent, without the concentrated punch of the oil.
Hydrosol or essential oil?
| Trait | Lavender hydrosol | Lavender essential oil |
|---|---|---|
| Scent | Soft, sweet, green and herbal | Strong and concentrated |
| Form | Water-based spray, ready to use | Small bottle of oil, used by the drop |
| Typical use | Face mist, linen spray, room spritz | Diffuser, as directed on the label |
Ways to use it
- Face mist: close your eyes and mist lightly on a warm afternoon or after a long drive.
- Linen spray: spritz pillows and sheets while making the bed, then let them air-dry.
- Room refresher: a few sprays into the air of a stuffy bedroom or guest room.
- Ironing: a light mist over cotton pillowcases before pressing gives them a faint lavender scent.
- Cool spritz: keep the bottle in the fridge for hot July days.
For delicate fabrics, mist a hidden spot first and let it dry before spraying the whole piece.
Storing your bottle
Hydrosol is a natural water product, so give it a little care: keep the cap on, store it somewhere cool and out of direct sun, and the fridge is a perfectly good home for it. The 8 oz spray bottle is easy to keep on a nightstand or vanity.
Frequently asked questions
Is hydrosol just essential oil mixed with water?
No. It is the water collected during distillation itself, which is why its scent is softer and greener than oil added to water.
Why does it smell different from lavender oil?
Hydrosol carries a lighter, more herbal side of the plant. Many people find it fresher and less perfumy than the oil.
Is it a good gift?
Yes, especially for someone who likes lavender but finds strong scents too much. Pair it with other farm goods on our gifts page.
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