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Hydrosol Side Effects

Hydrosols, or essential waters, are aqueous solutions obtained by steam distillation of aromatic plants. Hydrosols are used for several purposes, including use as flavorings, ingestion as alternative medicine, and as a topical rub. Although many distributors claim that there are no dangers inherent to using hydrosols, in reality there are certain side effects that may occur with hydrosol use.

  1. Skin Irritation

    • When applied topically, some hydrosols (such as cinnamon bark) may cause your skin to become irritated. If this happens to you, you should clean the affected area and discontinue use.

    Stomach Problems

    • One of the most common dangers of orally-consumed hydrosols is that they may be contaminated by fungi and bacterial growth. This is the case because hydrosols are composed primarily of water and are thus excellent breeding grounds for bacteria if left untreated. Hydrosols can be contaminated by many of the same bacterial contaminants as tainted bottled water, such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia.

      Likely side effects of consuming contaminated hydrosols include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. More dangerous outcomes are also possible, such as pancreatitis or intestinal infections.

    Sensitivity to Sunlight

    • Topical use of hydrosols may cause your skin to become overly sensitive to sunlight. This may result in an increased susceptibility to sunburn or skin irritation and may increase your risk of becoming afflicted with skin cancer.

    Stomach Problems

    • Ingestion of certain hydrosols (including rosemary) can cause epileptic seizures in some people. This risk is minimal when hydrosols are used topically.

    Poisoning

    • Some hydrosols are made from plants that have been demonstrated to be toxic or poisonous. These hydrosols may pose a risk of poisoning if consumed in excess. Children may be at particular risk for poisoning if your hydrosols are not packaged in a child-proof bottle.

      If you are pregnant or nursing a child, remember that any hydrosol that you consume will be passed through your blood to your child.

    Carcinogenicity

    • Some hydrosols, such as Calamus, are made from plants that have carcinogenic properties and thus may not be safe to use. Before ingesting any hydrosol you should be sure to investigate the suspected carcinogenicity of the source plant that it was distilled from.

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