Patchouli Hydrosol

Patchouli hydrosol, derived from the leaves of the patchouli plant (Pogostemon cablin), is obtained by steam distillation. This hydrosol is a clear to slightly cloudy liquid with an earthy, woody scent and a hint of sweetness.

The pH of patchouli hydrosol is usually between 4.0 and 5.0. This slightly acidic solution contributes to the soothing and skin caring properties of the hydrosol.

The main components of patchouli hydrosol are aromatic compounds such as patchoulol , α-patchoulene and β-patchoulene. Patchouli hydrosol is often used in aromatherapy and skin care products for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Properties

• Hydrating: It helps to hydrate and firm the skin, leaving it supple and soft.
• Soothing: It can help reduce redness and irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
• Antibacterial: It has antibacterial properties that can help fight skin infections.
• Antifungal: It has antifungal properties, which can be useful in treating fungal infections.
• Calming: It has a relaxing and calming scent, making it useful in aromatherapy.
• Refreshing: It refreshes the skin and can help reduce swelling and fatigue.

Applications

• Facial Toner: It can be used as a hydrating and soothing toner to soothe and refresh the skin.
• Body Mist: It works great as a refreshing body mist, especially on hot days or after exercise.
• Aromatherapy: It can be used in diffusers to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere.
• Bath Additive: Add to bath water for a relaxing and aromatic experience.
• Compresses: It can be used in compresses to soothe skin inflammations and irritations.
• Hair Care: It can be used as a hair rinse to soothe the scalp and refresh the hair.
• Wound care: It promotes the healing of wounds and scars and can be used to treat minor cuts and scrapes.

What is a hydrosol?

• A hydrosol is created during the distillation process of plant material. The plant material is exposed to steam or immersed in boiling water. The heat causes the cells of the plant material containing the essential oil to soften and release their contents.
• The essential oil, which is volatile, rises together with the steam in cooling tubes. Here the steam cools and condenses into water. This condensed water, which comes from the cells of the plant, is known as hydrosol. It contains many components, including the water-soluble (hydrophilic) micromolecules of some components that are also found in the essential oil of the plant.
• Hydrosols often have different properties than the essential oil of the same plant material, providing unique applications and benefits. They are particularly suitable for children, the elderly and people with sensitive skin due to their mild nature.