Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Saved from the Funk (Hydrosol)

It's Wednesday afternoon. 80 degrees with 61% humidity.....I have less than 10 minutes to spare, to run down the hill 3 blocks and through the state capitol bldg to catch a shuttle back to my building.
10 minutes before:
Do I choose a graphite pencil, medium, soft or hard charcoal w/ peel away sharpening, or a plain charcoal pencil... ooh, look at these... what is this? What is graphite anyway? "Writes like a pencil but dark like chacoal...." I mulled over several erasers as well..... OMG...I snatch a medium charcoalpeel pencil and a gray kneading eraser..... it's 12:46!!!
I have 9 minutes..... I run ( which wouldn't be described assuch) down the way. I pass a few carefree citizens who have formed a horizontal line across the side walk. UGH! When you're in a rush, no one else is. I am in no shape or form or prepared to even remotely run down the 3 blocks, but I put my best foot forward - which is my left. .. and glide around the barricade of people enjoying the nice weather.
Upon block three, at the last moment I decide to vacate all plans to run through the "basement" (concourse) of the Plaza and take a sharp left down a steep hill, turn into a bend, which is the mouth of the bus turn-around, and through a tunnel where a state trooper happens to be waiting. I ignored the fact that I possibly could get a pedestrian ticket for going through this tunnel. I perspire more but, I make my shuttle!!
I can relax...... or can't I? I made it, but has my deodorant? I am perspiring like crazy and I'm not feeling so fresh.....The light bulb went off. When I am back at my cubicle I reach into my tote for my homemade body elixer! My trusty, loyal hydrosol blend!

What are Hydrosols?
Hydrosols are the distillate product left over during the process of producing steam distilled Essential Oils.

What are the benefits of Hydrosol?
Hydrosols are non-abrasive and not irritating to the skin. Although hydrosols are not as concentrated as essential oils they still hold the essential oils therapeutic properties.

How can I use hydrosol?
Many artisans use hydrosols in water-based cosmetic products and for non-toxic linen sprays. My favorite ways of using them are for an after work-out body refresher (when a shower isn't nearby), hair moisturizing mist or a scent mist to keep on my desk at work.

How do I make hydrosols? Where can they be purchased?
In order to make potent safe hydrosols you would need special steam distilling equipment and be knowledgeable in Herbology. I for one do not make my own hydrosols nor essential oils. One place I do recommend, although it can be a bit costly is Fromnaturewithlove.com. Try searching the net for hydrosols and I'm sure you will stumble upon several others as well.

Could you please share a recipe?

Absolutely!
AFTER WORK-OUT REFRESHER
1 Part Rose Hydrosol
1 Part Lavender
3 Parts Witch Hazel Hydrosol
1 part distilled water
A splash of Isopropyl Alcohol
(optional - mixture should be refridgerated)
tsp jojoba
6 - 10 drops of your favorite essential oil (excluding citrus' & almond eo's- can cause skin damage due to photosensitivity. Mints should not be used on the face.)

Do You have another recipe?
Why not. We all as woman have gone a bit too far and shaves a bit too much and a bit too low. When it grows back! YOUCH!
BIKINI AREA PAIN EASE
3 Parts Witch Hazel Hydrosol
1 Part chamomile
1 Part Floral Hydrosol (rose, lavender or something else)
1 part distilled water
A splash of Isopropyl Alcohol (optional - mixture should be refridgerated)
tsp jojoba
3 drops patchouli
2 - 3 drops tea trea oil


Shake and pour liquid onto a cotton ball or what I like to use, dry cotton pads.