As the southwestern United States hit record temperatures this past week, including here in Sedona, Arizona, I revisited a post I had written a few years ago about essential oil recipes for hot days. I decided to update that post with the addition of some hydrosol recipes. These particular hydrosols should help to keep you cool during those hot summer days which – if predictions are correct for future summers – will only increase in frequency.

Hydrosol Cooling Spray

All hydrosols are water based so, by their very nature, are in fact “cooling.” However, some types of hydrosols provide more “cooling” benefits than others; they can be used on their own or combined with others. Here are a few of my suggestions for cooling hydrosol sprays:

• Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) – peppermint provides a refreshing, minty boost on a hot day.

• Melissa (Melissa officinalis) – melissa, also known as lemon balm, givens a light lemon-y lift, without being too overpowering.

• Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) – reminiscent of a herbal garden, there is a reason why people express the phrase, “cool as a cucumber…”

• Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus) – cornflower hydrosol is recommended for women with hot flashes in menopause; say no more….

• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – lavender is always a great “go to” if you don’t have another hydrosol available, as it covers almost every situation and problem.

Summer Spritzer Hydrosol Combo

If you are looking to make a custom blend of cooling hydrosol spray, try this quick and easy recipe:

• 4 oz spray bottle

• 1 oz peppermint hydrosol*

• 2 oz melissa hydrosol

• 0.5 oz cucumber hydrosol

• 0.5 oz lavender hydrosol

* Avoid use with children under three years of age.

• Simply combine all of the hydrosols in the spray bottle and apply as needed.

Hydrosol Cooling Compress

Another welcome relief on a hot day is the use of a cooling compress on your forehead, back of the neck, or top of the head. This is also a helpful method for those suffering from headaches or migraines.

Simply combine a mix of your chosen hydrosols in a 4 oz spray bottle. Completely spray a small wash cloth, or towel, with the hydrosol spray. Fold the wash cloth or towel into a “bandana” style shape, and place on the back of the neck, forehead, or the top of your head until you feel cooler.

Hydrosol Ice Cubes

As hydrosols are water-based, you can freeze some of your favorite hydrosols in a conventional ice cube tray in the freezer. If you are looking to apply that “extra bit of cool,” or need to cool down in a hurry, hydrosol ice cubes are the way to go. Use them in combination with a compress for instant relief from the heat.

Learn More About Hydrosols with Sedona Aromatics

If you would like to learn more about how to use hydrosols and essential oils safely, take a look at the Sedona Aromatics Certificate in Holistic Aromatherapy.

References:

• Author is a 20 year veteran in the health care and aromatherapy industry, a UK-certified aromatherapist, published author in aromatherapy, an approved education provider for the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), an aromatherapy business owner, a consultant, and Chief Editor for the NAHA Aromatherapy Journal.