I had not heard of coyote mint, Mondarella villosa, before this summer. A dear friend and fellow gardener showed me the few plants she had growing in her garden and offered her summer blossoms for a hydrosol distillation. Carol went on to explain how she uses the herb in her practice as an herbalist and I was immediately intrigued.
Coyote mint is an aromatic, perennial herb native to the west coast of the United States. It can be found throughout most of the western United States, from New Mexico to Washington. It has the traditional mint characteristics, a square stem and opposite leaves, though at first sight, it looks more like a sage. Its leaves are much smaller than other mint species though its scent is recognizably minty and delicious. The small, purplish pink flowers emerge in clusters and bloom nearly all summer. The blossoms invite every pollinator in the garden to investigate, it is quite a sight. The plant is hardy, drought tolerant and oh so fragrant!
Coyote mint was used by several native tribes throughout California. The Ohlone on the central coast used the herb both internally and externally. A decoction was made to aid in respiratory problems. Topically, they used the herb to draw out toxins by making small cuts and applying a poultice of the leaves and flowers. The most notable use for coyote mint was to soothe indigestion and stomach aches, a remedy that is still used today. The taste is quite unique, somewhat bitter and spicy, slightly perfumey - the tea must not be boiled, but steamed lightly.
The coyote mint hydrosol is true to form, aromatic and energetic. The scent is minty and musky, a hint of smoke and an after note of sage. As a facial toner, it is bright and nourishing. Similar to other mint varieties, it is naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal. The hydrosol makes for an excellent hair tonic, linen spray or natural deodorant.
This hydrosol is not available to purchase on our website. We will be gifting this product to you with purchases under $100 during the GARA Gift Week which starts Tuesday, December 1! We have a limited supply of this hydrosol, available for gifting while supplies last. Gift Week ends Tuesday, December 8, 2020.
COYOTE MINT
Minty and spicy, slightly smoky with a hint of sage
Aromatic strength: Medium-strong
- A nourishing and aromatic toner
- Refreshing for mind and body
- A member of the mint family - energizing
- Excellent as a hair tonic, deodorant or linen spray
HOW TO USE: Mist onto face, neck and chest after cleansing, or whenever your skin needs a boost. Your hydrosol may be used as a therapeutic mist or as a hair and scalp tonic, and can be added to baths or diffusers.
Store in a cool, dry place. Do not expose to direct sunlight or heat. For a cooling mist, store in the refrigerator. Discontinue use if irritation occurs. Use within 12-16 months of distillation date.
WHY IT WORKS
This aromatic skin tonic is a colloidal suspension of plant acids, minerals, microparticles of essential oil, and other water-soluble compounds found in coyote mint. The potent energetic and therapeutic properties of this herb are concentrated in this pure, undiluted hydrosol.
As they are naturally acidic, hydrosols help to balance the pH of the skin, regulate oil production, and clear problematic or irritated skin. This herbal solution also contains water from the plant itself, along with the elemental essence and life force of the plant.
INGREDIENTS
Undiluted Coyote Mint Hydrosol, less that 0.5% nano silver.
Botanical Name: Monardella villosa
Origin: Ojai, California
Method: Combo distillation
Parts Used: Flowers
Distilled: 08/20
1.7oz (50ml)