Basil Hydrosol
INCI Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Leaf Water
Overview
The fragrant water co-produced when basil leaves are steam-distilled, carrying a fresh, herbal scent.
What it is
Basil Hydrosol is the water collected when basil leaves are steam-distilled, most often for their essential oil. It carries a soft, green, herbal aroma — familiar from the kitchen, but much gentler.
Where it comes from and how it’s made
Basil is grown widely across warm climates worldwide. The leaves are steam-distilled, and the water that condenses alongside the essential oil is collected separately as the hydrosol.
What it does in a formulation
As a light, fragrant water, Basil Hydrosol is used in place of some or all of the water in a formula, bringing a fresh, herbal note into the finished product.
Why Lovebee uses it
Basil has a bright, green freshness that’s hard to find elsewhere, and we like the way it lifts a blend without overpowering it. It’s a nice choice for formulas that want to feel crisp and alive rather than heavy or sweet.
Good to know
- Vegan and entirely plant-derived.
Common questions
- What does Basil Hydrosol smell like?
Fresh, green, and herbal — a softer echo of fresh basil leaves.
- Is Basil Hydrosol the same as basil essential oil?
No. The hydrosol is the water collected during distillation and is much more dilute than the essential oil.
- Is Basil Hydrosol vegan?
Yes — it’s a plant-derived ingredient with no animal inputs.
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