Hydrosol is derived from the Latin words hydro and sol, meaning "water solution." Hydrosols usually have strong aroma because they contain small amounts of essential oil and other water soluble molecules. The distillate water that accompanies the essential oil during distillation contains a variety of water-soluble molecules, many of which have medicinal and other biological activities.  The distillate water may not necessarily smell like the essential oil from which it separated. This is because the kinds of compounds that go into the water phase are more polar than those that are in the essential oil. Some polar compounds are known to be beneficial on account of their anti-oxidant activities. Since most distillate waters are not concentrated, they may be used as they are or diluted a bit before use.
One of the most popular distillate waters is that of Eucalyptus, which can be used for a variety of purposes such as antiseptic spray around the home, as toilet water, as body spray, for wound cleansing, for footbath and for hair and skin rinse. Immersing the feet in a bowl containing distillate water of Eucalyptus is one of the best ways of treating tired and sweaty feet. Also try a facial compress after dipping a small towel in aromatic water. Rosemary distillate water is particularly ideal for hair rinse.

Chamomile distillate water is excellent addition to room sprays, lotions, facial toners etc. It can also be added into a spray bottle and used directly on the skin even of children. The list of innovative ways of using the by products of steam distillation is long. Distillate waters of thyme, ginger, clove and cinnamon can be used as additives to tea and beverages and for home made mouthwashes and gargles. Myrrh distillate water is particularly known for its anti-inflammatory and gum-wound healing properties. If you have pets as part of your household, certainly distillate water may be an important tool to keep at bay fleas and other pests. Cheer your dogs, cats and other domestic animals by spraying them periodically with refreshing aromatic water.