Hydrolats, also known as floral waters, are part of the world of aromatherapy and natural cosmetics. These are waters extracted during the distillation of plants, and their properties and uses are attracting increasing attention from natural product enthusiasts and scientists alike.
Hydrolats – what are they and how to use them?
Hydrolats are waters extracted by steam or water distillation. The process is primarily used to extract essential oils from plants, but at the same time it generates so-called “essential oils”. “Bio-substance” – that is, hydrolate. Hydrolat is a valuable product because it contains plant ingredients in a water-soluble form. The composition of hydrolats depends on the type of plant from which they are obtained. It’s not just an aqueous carrier of plant aromas and flavors, but also a product containing valuable compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, minerals, vitamins, phytosterols and other active ingredients. In addition, hydrolats are poor in essential oils, which means they are softer and less concentrated than the oils themselves.
Hydrolats have been widely used in aromatherapy and natural cosmetics. They are used in the production of soaps, creams, tonics, face masks, and as ingredients in hair care products. The effects of the hydrolate are soothing, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, making them excellent for skin and hair care. In aromatherapy, hydrolates are used as gentle forms of scent therapy.
Properties of hydrolats – why you should and how to use them
Hydrolats have many uses, from moisturizing and refreshing the skin to aromatherapy. With anti-inflammatory and soothing properties and a wealth of natural plant ingredients, hydrolates support body and hair care. They are also safe for sensitive skin and are increasingly used in the production of natural cosmetics. It is a natural and environmentally friendly solution that is gaining popularity in the field of healthy living and beauty.
Quality control of hydrolats
Quality control of hydrolats is a key aspect of their production and use. Here are some aspects to consider:
- Source of raw materials: the first step in quality control of a hydrolate is to ensure that the raw materials come from organic and uncontaminated sources. Plants used for distillation should be healthy and free of pesticides;
- Distillation process: quality control begins with the distillation process itself;
- Laboratory analysis: hydrolate samples should be regularly tested in laboratories to determine their chemical composition, microbiological purity and other quality parameters;
- Packaging and storage: proper packaging and storage of hydrolats is important to preserve their shelf life and quality. Hydrolats are sensitive to light and temperature, so they must be stored in dark bottles in a cool place.
Hydrolats, or floral waters, are valuable products extracted during the distillation of plants. Their content depends on the type of raw material, and the applications are wide, both in aromatherapy and cosmetics. Quality control of hydrolats is extremely important to provide users with quality products that are free of impurities and harmful substances. With proper quality control, hydrolats can provide numerous benefits for both health and beauty, while remaining a natural and safe solution.