Who can use hydrosols?

When we talk about aromatherapy, we often limit it to essential oils: concentrates of aromatic molecules that are very active, but which present numerous contraindications and risks of use. Most essential oils are therefore not recommended for pregnant women, children, and generally sensitive users. Should these users deprive themselves of the benefits of aromatherapy? No, of course. Hydrosols are a branch of aromatherapy in their own right, just like essential oils. Mainly composed of water, they contain all the active water-soluble molecules of the plant as well as a tiny part of aromatic molecules. They are therefore very gentle, yet active, which is why they are preferred for young children and pregnant women. And there’s a hydrosol for every problem! Pregnant, breastfeeding women, children or babies, here are some situations where hydrosols can be of great help. To find out more about the uses of each, do not hesitate to consult their dedicated page.

• Nappy rash : hydrosols of Rose, True Lavender, Geranium, Camomile or Roman Chamomile
• Teething : Roman Chamomile or True Lavender hydrosols
• Colic and colitis : Roman Chamomile or Lemon Balm hydrosols
• Constipation : Lemon Verbena or Basil hydrosols
• Hyperactivity or tantrums : hydrosols of Roman Chamomile, Damascus Rose, True Lavender or Orange Blossom
• Insomnia, nightmares, anxiety : hydrosols of Orange Blossom, Roman Chamomile, Damask Rose, Linden or True Lavender
• Immune defenses : Thyme hydrosol with linalool
• Cradle caps : True Lavender or Geranium hydrosols

• Pregnancy nausea : hydrosols of Basil, Bergamot, Lemon Balm or Orange Blossom
• Irritated, chapped nipples : Damascus Rose or Lavender hydrosols

While most hydrosols are almost perfectly safe, some may present some contraindications. This is explained, once again, by their composition. Current analyzes and research on hydrosols are still quite rare today, and the composition of all hydrosols is not precisely known. Unlike essential oils where a chromatographic analysis is always carried out, the molecular concentration of hydrosols is too low to be systematically analyzed. We then base ourselves on the few analyzes available here and there, and on a theoretical analysis based on the chemistry of the molecules. Indeed, we know that hydrosols will contain the water-soluble molecules of the plant, but also some aromatic molecules. Although essential oils are insoluble in water, certain aromatic molecules have good solubility in it. This is the case for ketones, for example, whose toxicity needs to be qualified but which can present risks, notably abortive or convulsive. Based on this theoretical analysis, we therefore know that molecules such as ketones, but also phenols or phyto-hormones are likely to be found in hydrosols.

These warnings are given for informational and preventive purposes: there has never been any poisoning with hydrosols, apart from a few mild skin reactions.

As a precaution, hydrosols that may contain ketones or camphor are not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as children under 3 or under 6 years old. Here are some examples :

• Hydrosols likely to contain camphor: Yarrow, Angelica, etc.
• Hydrosols likely to contain ketones: Peppermint, Hyssop, Clary Sage, Atlas Cedar, etc.
• Hydrosols likely to contain phenols: Oregano, Savory, Cloves, etc.
• Hydrosols likely to contain phyto-hormones (these hydrosols should not be used in cases of hormone-dependent pathology, mastosis, fibroids): Clary and Officinal Sage, Provence Cypress, Officinal Hyssop, etc.

Among the risks that hydrosols may present, there is also an allergenic or irritant risk. An allergy to an essential oil can induce an allergy to the corresponding hydrosol. In this case, a simple allergic test can be carried out, the same as for essential oils: place 2 drops of the hydrosol in the crook of the elbow and observe if redness appears within 24 hours.

Hydrosols containing phenols such as Cinnamon, Oregano or Savory can cause slight skin irritation on the most sensitive skin. To prevent this, it is possible first of all to carry out an allergy test, then to dilute the hydrosol in water before use.

Hydrosols containing phenols such as Cinnamon, Oregano or Savory can cause slight liver problems when used for long periods. Although the risk of addiction with hydrosols is lower, in this case it is preferable to use them for short periods of time.

Some hydrosols should not be applied before exposure to the sun. They contain photosensitizing molecules, which can cause moderate skin reactions. This is the case for coumarins in citrus hydrosols (Lemon, Grapefruit, etc.) or carrot and angelica hydrosols.