So I'm still investigating hydrosols. I've always known about the power of herbs, but I never knew flowers had healing properties as well. I'm really amazed at the practical and medicinal uses for flowers. They're not just ornamental. Did you know there are people who believe that plants are senscient? Sometimes people have the gift to understand the language of flowers. Modern day shamans listen to plants and use the knowledge they glean to help heal people of illness.

Some of the more common hydrosols and their uses:

Arnica
Recommended sore muscles, bruises, and relief of muscle’s pain. Added to milk and lotion, it can combat cellulites, varicose veins, phlebitis etc.

Witch Hazel Hydrosol
Widely used in skin care products because of it's anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties; reduces redness of rosacea, burns, eczema, psoriasis.

Lemon Balm Hydrosol
Smells of lemon; useful as antioxidant, anti inflammatory; soothes herpes, anti viral, anti fungal.

Neroli Hydrosol
Both fruity and floral smelling; calming and refreshing, often used as room spray; good facial toner for oily skin. Many people mix with rose; antibacterial, antifungal.

Clary Sage Hydrosol
Helpful during the menstrual cycle and menopause; some find the smell unpleasant so mix with another more fragrant hydrosol.


Make Love Not War Room Spray

2 drops Ginger (Zingiber officinale) essential oil

3 drops Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) essential oil

4 drops Juniper (Juniperum communis) essential oil

10 drops Neroli (Cistus sinensis) hydrosol

Combine essential oils in a small glass vial with an orifice reducer. Diffuse the blend for 5 minutes using an electric nebulizer. Or, place a few drops on a cotton pad for passive diffusion. For a quick hit to stay calm, put some hydrosol on a cotton ball and seal in a plastic baggie. Keep it in your car and inhale during rush hour.