The deep green, tiny leaves of peppermint are very popular in cooking, folk medicine and aromatherapy. During sunny days, its leaves and flowers are collected and, with the help of experienced experts, transformed into a refreshing and energizing floral water and its wonderful essential oil through a steam distillation process.
Mint flower water
Mint flower water or hydrosol/hydrosol is used for its refreshing, antibacterial and antiseptic effects. It relieves unpleasant itching after both bites and stings. Compresses with mint hydrosol help irritated skin and reduce inflamed and red acne.
The function of mint hydrosol in hydrotherapy is mentioned by Suzanne Catty in her book “Hydrosols the next aromatherapy”. The combination of this therapy and mint water relieves stiff and sore muscles and also pain, for example, with a sprained ankle. Interestingly, when added to hot water it brings a cooling effect, and when mixed with cold water, the opposite effect.
Mint water in a spray bottle
Mint mist is one of the most pleasant aroma mists. We use it during times when we need to concentrate more, study or work. It calms the nerves and at the same time stimulates brain activity. Direct application to the face refreshes in the persistent summer heat and also relieves hot flashes during menopause. If the smell of this hydrolate is still strong for you, do not be afraid to dilute it in a spray bottle with distilled/boiled water.
The taste and smell of mint water
This flower water is characterized by the fresh aroma of crushed fresh mint leaves, more delicate than the aroma of the essential oil itself. The taste of undiluted hydrolate is very pronounced. Mixing it with water will add delicacy, but its intensity is still far from mint tea. Thanks to its antibacterial and cleansing properties, it can be drunk diluted in case of nausea and other digestive problems (Not recommended during pregnancy!!). However, always mixed with water and in small sips, as S. Catty states in his above-mentioned book. (Here you will also find an exhaustive list of drinking treatments with mint hydrolate - for liver cleansing, for cleansing acne-prone skin, for fatigue.) It is also an excellent alternative to natural mouthwash, I recommend it!
Culinary
Try mint water in both hot and cold dishes. Its light sweetness is suitable for preparing refreshing summer cocktails and smoothies. Don't be afraid to experiment. Treat it like a syrup. Add spoonfuls at a time.
Always keep in mind that mint hydrolate is not recommended for children under 3 years of age, just like classic mint tea.
O Peppermint essential oil We will talk about it in the second part of the article. It will be posted soon.
