There is something undeniably timeless about the Magnolia tree.
Its fragrance deepens as the blossoms unfurl in the warm, humid air and it reminds me of one of the first times I came to Southern California. We pulled into Orange County at dusk. As soon as I stepped out of the car, a rich creamy, floral fragrance embraced me. It was intoxicating, almost other worldly coming from the high altitudes of the arid Utah desert. It is a memory I cherish and as I sit here writing to you today about the launch of our Magnolia Hydrosol, I am in awe of the synchronicity that has brought me full circle with this sacred flower.
Long before modern gardens, before honeybees drifted from flower to flower, magnolias were already blooming on the earth. The Magnolia lineage is believed to date back nearly 100 million years, making it one of the most ancient flowering plant families still thriving today. These remarkable trees evolved during a time when beetles were among their primary pollinators, and their thick, resilient petals remain a living reminder of that ancient relationship.
Magnolia blossoms exude an aroma unlike any other floral I have yet to encounter. Rich yet airy, sweet yet grounding, spicy yet green, the scent carries notes of creamy white florals, warm summer evenings, and lush gardens in bloom.
This season, we are honored to introduce our first ever distillation of Magnolia grandiflora. The hydrosol feels both elegant and complex, something truly unique as a skincare mist and as an edible essence.
We often refer to hydrosols as the spirit of the plant. During the process of distillation, the aromatic compounds from the plant are slowly are released and collected by the steam. As the steam rises to the top of the still at its peak temperature, it spirals back down into the condenser where it cools and returns to a liquid state. This magical liquid contains cellular water from the plant, aromatic molecules and other water soluble compounds. This is the hydrosol.
Magnolia Hydrosol can be used as a daily facial mist, skin toner or refreshing aromatherapy spray throughout the day. Its soft floral aroma makes it a beautiful addition to facial rituals, offering a moment of pause and presence while lightly hydrating the skin. We especially love it after cleansing, before applying facial oils, or anytime the skin craves extra moisture.
This hydrosol is distilled with food-grade practices and may be enjoyed as a floral aromatic water. Add a splash to still water, sparkling water, mocktails, tea, or culinary creations for a subtle floral experience. Paul describes the taste as spicy, green, almost cucumber-like with a hint of floral and citrus. We have been adding it to our water daily to enjoy the energetic and flavorful profile. The flavor is delicate and nuanced which seems to reflect the fleeting beauty of the fresh blossoms from which it was distilled.
Magnolia flowers arrive for only a brief moment each year. The scent is fleeting as each blossom offers only a few days of peak aroma before returning to the earth. Distilling them allows us to preserve a small piece of the short season. The hydrosol is an homage to a flower that has graced the Earth for millions of years.
Every bottle is filled to order and as always, we distill low and slow, specifically for the hydrosol to preserve the traditional method that defines our work. You will not find another Magnoila hydrosol out there as beautiful and timeless as this.
SHOP MAGNOLIA
