So You Want To How to Start off When Distilling Essential Oils and Hydrosols
Ann Harman
Distill? Guest writer and seasoned distiller Ann Harman takes us through understanding the first steps to take in beginning distillation. I love distilling, I was hooked the first time I saw a distillation of roses. Needless to say, I was hooked from the start! I have now been distilling hydrosols for nearly 30 years. The journey has taken me to many places, and I have learned much along the way. I have distilled on different styles and sizes of stills, different metals and glass, I have even distilled on a clay replica of an ancient still. Each has its own distinct nature. So how does one choose? Let’s start at the beginning. The following is a list of questions to ask yourself before you purchase a still. •
Why do I want to distill? Is it for essential oil, hydrosol or perhaps a combination?
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How will I use the product? Is it for personal and family use or do I want to make value added products and/or sell the essential oil or hydrosol?
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What access do I have to plants? Do you plan on growing your own, wildcrafting or purchasing?
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Do I want to specialize in one botanical or distill many different plants?
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