Scent is the language of plants. Nature speaks to us. Its plant fragrances touch our feelings, moods, and dreams. They can also provide healing impulses.

Aromabotany listens and pays attention. Then we are ready to skillfully produce floral waters and essential oils using stills. Aromatherapy teaches us how to use essential oils for healing, care, cosmetics, and cooking. A touch of self-sufficiency from nature's garden and nourishment for body and soul.

In the early 1970s, I first encountered essential oils in India and was fascinated. I followed their fragrant trail for decades to learn aromatherapy.

My book "Heavenly Scents," a classic of aromatherapy, first published in 1989, continues to be updated and reprinted to this day. It established aromatherapy in German-speaking countries. The book is the ABCs of aromatherapy and has inspired many people to explore essential oils in a wide variety of areas. Essential oils are now used for healing and care in hospitals, nursing homes, and home care settings.

And now, hydrosols, which are also produced through distillation, have made a comeback. Known as remedies centuries ago, then almost forgotten, they are currently experiencing a renaissance.

They are healing yet very mild, making them safe for use even in times of high allergy prevalence.

The best part is that you can make them yourself, from plants in your garden, wild harvesting, or dried herbs.

Instructions for distilling, detailed descriptions of hydrosols, and over 200 recipes can be found in my book,

"The Big Book of Hydrosols."

Since essential oils now predominantly come from monocultures, which harm plants, soil, and animals and reduce biodiversity, hydrosols, which require far less plant material to produce, offer a sustainable alternative.

In my seminars, I teach the art of distillation and aromatherapy, which allows us to recognize the healing powers of plants.

In the advanced course "The Magic Kitchen Table," we create medicines and cosmetics from hydrosols.