Aromatic Waters

AROMATIC WATERS, aromatic waters, Aquae aromaticae, contain essential oils, and are prepared by distilling with water aromatic plants or by dissolving pure essential oils in water. Distillation is carried out not only with water, but often with water and alcohol (A. a. spirituosae); A. w. are transparent or slightly opalescent, have a characteristic odor, must not be musty, mucilaginous, too turbid, or change from hydrogen sulfide. They must be stored in a cool, dark place, in completely filled and well-sealed bottles. Before dispensing, the water is heated to 15-20°, shaken vigorously and filtered. A. w. act due to their essential oils more or less antiseptically, irritantly, increasing saliva secretion, enhancing appetite and increasing the motor and absorptive capacity of the stomach. A. w. are often used to correct the smell and taste of other medicinal substances.