Aromatic herbal water is a traditional type of drink that brings the distinctive scent and taste of plants to the table in liquid form. In WeNatur's Aromatic Waters collection you will find Zühre Ana's artichoke, thyme, pine cone, çakşır and chaste tree (hayıt) waters in one place. In this guide we explain in plain language what is written on each product's label, how to choose the right product, how to use it in the kitchen and how to store the bottle once it has been opened.
In Anatolia, the tradition of obtaining water from plants has a long history. Thyme, cones or various roots are processed with water and steam; the resulting liquid carries the aroma of the plant. Today this tradition continues with products offered in glass bottles whose ingredients are clearly stated on the label. Every bottle we ship from our warehouse in Germany makes it easy for you to try these familiar flavours in your kitchen in Europe.
What is aromatic herbal water?
Put simply, aromatic water is a liquid obtained by processing a plant with the help of water and steam, carrying the scent and characteristic taste of that plant. In some products a small proportion of plant extract is added to this water, and the proportion is stated as a percentage on the label. For example, in Zühre Ana çakşır water the çakşır root is processed by steam distillation under hygienic conditions, and 0.3 percent çakşır extract is added to the water.
An aromatic water should not be confused with fruit juice or syrup. Fruit juices are usually obtained by pressing fruit and have a noticeable sweetness; syrups are thick and concentrated. Aromatic waters, on the other hand, are fluid, light and have a plant-like taste. For most products in our collection, the label clearly states that they contain no added sugar and no preservatives. This simple composition makes it easy to use the product on its own or in different drink recipes.
Aromatic waters at WeNatur
All products in the collection belong to the Zühre Ana brand. The thyme, çakşır and pine cone waters come in 500 ml glass bottles. The ingredient list, allergen information and serving suggestion for each product can be found on the product page and on the label. Below we have grouped the varieties by flavour character.
Thyme and cones: familiar forest and mountain aromas
- Zühre Ana Thyme Water with Extract: contains thyme water obtained from the thyme plant and 0.3 percent thyme extract. No added sugar, preservatives or additives; supplied in a 500 ml glass bottle.
- Zühre Ana Pine Cone Water (Çam Çırası) with Extract: contains pine cone water and 0.1 percent picolinate extract. No added sugar, sweeteners, flavourings or preservatives; also packed in a glass bottle.
Root and vegetable based varieties
- Zühre Ana Çakşır Water with Extract: contains natural water obtained from the roots of the çakşır plant and 0.3 percent çakşır extract. No preservatives, added sugar or artificial flavourings; the root has been processed by steam distillation.
- Zühre Ana Artichoke Water with Extract: obtained by processing carefully selected artichokes and carries the distinctive character of the artichoke. It has a light, plant-like taste and can be enjoyed on its own or diluted with water.
An aroma from the Mediterranean: chaste tree
Zühre Ana Chaste Tree Water (Hayıt) with Extract offers the distinctive aroma of the chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus), a plant that grows in the Mediterranean region, in liquid form. It has a balanced taste reminiscent of mild spice and a clean finish. It can be enjoyed plain or with meals; when served chilled, its aroma becomes more pronounced.
Choosing aromatic herbal water: what to look for on the label
Two bottles on the same shelf may look similar at first glance, but the label shows the difference immediately. When choosing an aromatic water, we recommend paying attention to the following points:
- Ingredient list: The name of the plant water should come first. If an extract has been added, its proportion is stated as a percentage, for example 0.3 percent in the thyme water and 0.1 percent in the cone water.
- Added sugar and preservatives: If you are looking for a plain taste, check for the statements "no added sugar" and "no preservatives".
- Production method: Some labels also state the processing method, such as steam distillation. This information helps you understand how the product was obtained.
- Packaging: A glass bottle is a preferred type of packaging for preserving the product's scent and taste.
- Serving suggestion and quantity: The recommended daily amount is written on the label. Do not exceed the recommended amount.
- Best-before date and storage conditions: Be sure to read the storage information for after opening.
Important note: These products are not medicines and do not replace a varied, balanced diet. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or take medication regularly, consult your doctor or pharmacist before consuming them.
Kitchen and serving ideas with aromatic herbal water
As long as you follow the serving suggestion on the label, aromatic waters are a practical way to add a different flavour to your everyday drinking habits. Here are a few ideas:
- Serve chilled: Chill the bottle in the fridge and serve the water plain in a small glass. With varieties such as chaste tree water, the aroma is more noticeable when cold.
- Dilute: If you find the taste intense, dilute it with a little still or sparkling water. Artichoke water is particularly well suited to this.
- Smoothies and fruit blends: Add artichoke water to green smoothies or fruit blends for a plant-like touch.
- Herb-flavoured ice cubes: Mix thyme water with water, freeze it in ice cube trays and serve it with lemonade or soda.
- With meals: With its mildly spicy aroma, chaste tree water can be a different drink option alongside a simple lunch.
If you enjoy the culture of plant waters, it can also be fun to explore the collection together with our fruit extracts, so you can try both herbal and fruity flavours at the same table.
Storage tips
The most accurate information for each aromatic water is on its label; in general, the following rules make things easier. Store unopened bottles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. After opening, close the cap tightly and follow the after-opening storage instructions on the label. Pour the water into a clean glass; drinking straight from the bottle can affect the freshness of the product. Take care not to break the glass bottles when carrying them and placing them in the fridge.
Frequently asked questions about aromatic herbal water
How much aromatic water should I drink?
The amount is stated on the label and on the product page of each product. We recommend not exceeding this amount. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication, consult your doctor first.
Can aromatic water be diluted?
Yes. For artichoke water in particular, the label states that it can be enjoyed on its own or diluted with water. For the other varieties, adding water is also a practical way to soften the taste.
Which variety should I start with?
If you are looking for a familiar taste, thyme water is a good place to start. For a lighter, vegetable-like drink you can try artichoke water, and for an aroma reminiscent of spice, chaste tree water.
When will my order arrive?
Orders are shipped from our warehouse in Germany with DHL or DPD; within Germany, shipping is free for orders over 100 €. For details, please see our shipping policy.
Conclusion
From thyme to pine cone, from çakşır to chaste tree, each aromatic water presents the character of a plant in a simple, easy drink. By reading the label carefully, sticking to the recommended amount and storing the bottle properly, you can try these traditional drinks with peace of mind. You will find all varieties in the Aromatic Waters collection and more traditional products on our Traditional Food Products page. If you have any questions, you can reach us via our contact page.
Source: Wikipedia – Hydrosol
