Hydrosol - CornFlower (Organic)
About
Cornflower Hydrosol has a delicate, light aroma that is somewhat sweet. Its' taste is also delicate and light, very pleaasant.
Used as an eyewash and to soothe tired eyes. Try a cool compress for swollen or itchy eyes as the hydrosol has an anti-inflammatory effect. This hydrosol is an excellent choice for dry, mature skin, and its relieving for "hot flashes." Susan Cattey states this is one of only four hydrosols recommended as an eyewash. The other three are Roman and German Chamomile and green myrtle. Other possible uses include:
- combine with lavender to cleanse cuts and wounds
- Use in a compress for bruising
- Massage into the scalp for shiny hair and highlights.
- cool
How are hydrosols made?
The distillation process involves filling the still with plant material and passing steam through the plant under pressure. The pressurized steam breaks open the cells of the plant and releases its oil content. The steam and the oil molecules pass through a cooling condenser, which turns the steam back to water. The water is collected in a Florentine flask and the oil generally floats on the surface of the water. This water is the hydrosol.
Safety: Avoid during the first trimester of pregnancy because of potential phytohormones.
References:
Catty, Suzanne. Hydrosols, The Next Aromatherapy. Vermont: Healing Arts Press. 2001
Price, Len and Shirely Price. Understanding Hydrolats: The Specific Hydrosols for Aromatherapy. London: Churchill Livingston. 2004
