Workshop: Plant destilation Hydrosol & Essential Oil

🌿 DROP BY DROP: A DISTILLATION DAY A small-group day of distillation & plant alchemy in Fremantle · Only 10 places There’s something magical about watching a plant slowly turn into steam, and then into a few precious drops of essence. For me, distillation is one of the most beautiful ways to connect with a plant. This time, I’m joined by my friend Ben from Runo, and together we’ll fire up two stills at the same time: one copper, one stainless steel. Side by side, we’ll follow the same journey of the plant, from preparation to the hydrosol and essential oil, and see, smell and taste how each still shapes the final essence. We’ll also share our own paths: how each of us came to herbalism, distillation and plant alchemy, what we’ve learned along the way, and the different ways we approach this practice. On 21 November, we’ll meet at our favourite apothecary in Fremantle to explore the practical process of distillation, along with some of the deeper ways plants have traditionally been understood: plant signatures, elements, planetary correspondences and Vegetal Spagyria. 🌿 DURING THE WORKSHOP YOU WILL • Watch two stills working side by side, copper and stainless steel • Discover how the material of the still affects the process, aroma and final product • Learn the essential principles of botanical distillation • Prepare plant material according to its characteristics • Explore how water, temperature, plant material and time influence the distillation • Learn about hydrosols and essential oils, including their qualities, uses and preservation • Develop your sensory observation by comparing both distillates • Hear two distillers share their personal journeys in herbalism and alchemy • Explore plant signatures, elements and traditional planetary correspondences • Get an introduction to Vegetal Spagyria and plant alchemy This is not simply about learning how to operate a still. It’s an invitation to slow down, observe what happens drop by drop, compare two ways of working, and experience the transformation from plant to essence. You’ll also take home a small portion of the distillates created during the day. ☕ ON THE DAY Herbal drinks will be provided throughout the workshop. Shared lunch: please bring something to share, and we’ll enjoy a relaxed communal lunch together. 21 NOVEMBER · FREMANTLE 10 to 2 pm 🌿 This is an intimate workshop with only 10 places, so everyone can get close to the stills and the process. Come spend a day with two stills, fire, steam and water, and a small group of curious plant lovers.