From Field to Bottle: The Art of Crafting Lavender Hydrosol at Hambly Farms
Lavender, with its soothing fragrance and myriad uses, has been cherished for centuries. At Hambly Farms in Paso Robles, we take great pride in growing various lavender varieties, not only for their beauty but also for their therapeutic properties. One of the most versatile and beloved products derived from lavender is Lavender Hydrosol. Today, we invite you on a journey through our farm to discover how this wonderful product is made.
The Harvest
The creation of lavender hydrosol begins in our lush lavender fields. We carefully select the optimal time for harvesting, usually in the early morning when the essential oils are most concentrated. Our team handpicks the lavender flowers, ensuring that only the best blooms make it to the next stage. This meticulous selection process is crucial for producing high-quality hydrosol.
The Distillation Process
Once harvested, the lavender flowers are promptly transported to our distillation facility on the farm. Here, we employ the steam distillation method, a traditional yet effective technique to extract the essence of the lavender.
Preparation: The freshly harvested lavender is placed in a copper alembic still, which is known for its excellent heat conductivity and its ability to preserve the purity of the extract.
Steam Generation: Water is heated in a separate chamber to produce steam. This steam is then channeled through the lavender flowers. The heat causes the plant cells to burst, releasing their aromatic compounds.
Condensation: As the steam rises through the lavender, it captures the essential oils and water-soluble components of the plant. This steam, now laden with lavender's essence, passes through a cooling coil where it condenses back into liquid form.
Separation: The resulting liquid, known as distillate, is collected in a vessel. This distillate consists of two parts: the essential oil, which floats on top, and the hydrosol, or floral water, which contains the water-soluble components of the lavender and a small amount of essential oil.
Bottling the Hydrosol
After distillation, the lavender hydrosol is filtered to remove any impurities. It is then stored in sterilized containers to maintain its freshness and potency. We take great care in bottling our hydrosol in glass bottles to ensure a long shelf life.
The Benefits and Uses of Lavender Hydrosol
Lavender Hydrosol is a versatile product with a myriad of uses. Its gentle yet effective properties make it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Here are some popular applications:
Skincare: As a natural toner, lavender hydrosol helps to balance the skin's pH, soothe irritation, and reduce redness.
Aromatherapy: Its calming scent can be used in diffusers or as a linen spray to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Household: Lavender Hydrosol is an excellent natural cleaner and can be used to freshen up rooms, linens, and even as a mild disinfectant.
Sustainability and Community
At Hambly Farms, we are committed to sustainable farming practices and community involvement. Our distillation process is designed to minimize waste and environmental impact. After distillation, the spent lavender flowers are composted and returned to the fields, enriching the soil for future crops.
We also welcome guests to our farm to learn about lavender cultivation and the distillation process firsthand. By sharing our knowledge and passion, we hope to foster a deeper appreciation for this incredible plant and its many benefits.