Home grown and distilled
We are artisan growers and distillers of rosemary. Our aim is to do one thing and do it well. We grow one species of Rosemary - Rosmarinus Officinalis "Herb Cottage" in South Gippsland, Victoria Australia. Our Australian soils and conditions mean that we produce Verbonone type rosemary essential oil (GMS available on request). This is a particularly herbaceous smelling oil with less camphor that the more common Spanish rosemary. We use no chemicals, or pesticides, just rainwater and physical labour.
The oil is grounding and yet stimulating, aiding circulation and digestion. It is said to promote healthy lungs, particularly where relating to cold or flu-type symptoms. It can be effective in pain management. The verbonone type in hydrosol form is known as the anti-aging herb. It is well absorbed by the skin leaving it hydrated smooth and supple.
Growing
Our philosophy in gardening is to work with local conditions, naturally to allow the plant to prosper. Rosemary was chosen to fit with our site conditions. Therefore our rosemary is organically produced although not certified.
Essential oil
Extremely concentrated oil extracted from fresh rosemary by steam passing through the leaves and flowers. Oil collects on top of the hydrosol.
Distilling
To distill rosemary we strip the plant from the stems and place in a column above boiling water. Steam passes through the rosemary and the oil molecules attach. The steam then passes through a condenser ( cold water) and becomes a liquid, comprising hydrosol and oil.
Hydrosol
The aromatic water that has been through the rosemary, and contains tiny molecules of oil and other aromatics. It has a pH of less than 5 making it easy to be absorbed by the skin. We use rainwater.