The hydrolat is also called hydrolysate or even floral water. Like essential oils, these extracts are directly derived from the distillation of plant extracts with steam. It is the liquid above which the essential oil resulting from the distillation process is supernatant. Like the essential oil, the hydrolat is enriched throughout the distillation process. It first loads the "light" compounds and then the heavier components. 

Thus, this water contains more or less the same volatile active ingredients as the oils, but they are much less concentrated. Some water-soluble active ingredients are only present in the hydrolate and not in the essential oil. The floral water has therefore a much less pronounced smell and taste. It is also alcohol free.

Because of this, the hydrolat can be an advantageous replacement for essential oils in young children or for more sensitive people, while having the same properties.

As for essential oils, it is the Totum extracted from the part or plant distilled. This precious liquid is truly representative of the plant's potential.

Their culinary, medicinal and cosmetic uses

Milder than essential oils, they require fewer precautions for use.

They can be consumed on a daily basis as a leisure drink with a tablespoon diluted in a glass of water (hot or cold).

They are of course very useful because of their medicinal properties similar to the plants from which they are extracted. They can be enjoyed as an herbal tea or as a cure, diluted in a bottle of spring or purified water, to be drunk during the day.

For external use, they can be applied to the face or body during or after washing. They will be used in friction on the scalp after the rinsing of the shampoo. They are moisturizing, soothing or tonic depending on the plant used.

They can also be sprayed and diffused in sprays to sanitize the air or simply to scent the air.