Phytonauten-Expedition: Artemisia Annua

The journey begins

We meet at the Artfarm in Pölzgraben in Niklasdorf.
Together we prepare the plant and our 250-liter copper still. Then the journey begins.
Water turns into steam.

Steam flows through the plant.
Aromas are released.
The first drops appear.
And suddenly, botany becomes a sensual experience.


Our “Dicke Berta,” the large copper still of the Phytonauts, is not only the center of the action – it is our laboratory, our observation station, and sometimes even a bit of a diva.


What to expect


We will engage intensively with the plant that will be distilled that day.
Botany, ingredients, traditional uses, and the special properties of each plant make up the first part of our journey.


The technique

How does steam distillation actually work?
Why do we need pressure, temperature, and time?
What happens in the kettle, in the cooler, and finally in the collecting vessel?
Martin brings the technical perspective of the Phytonauts and makes visible what normally happens inside a still.


The hydrosol

The hydrosol is much more than a “by-product.”
We will look at what is produced during distillation, what properties the plant water has, and why hydrosols can differ so significantly from one another.


The essential oil

At the end of the distillation, we will see whether and how much essential oil the plant has released.
We will look, smell, compare, and talk about the fascinating world of volatile plant substances.


The fine-substance level

And then there is that level that cannot be easily captured in tables and measurements.
How do we perceive a plant?
What atmosphere is created during a distillation?
What changes in the room when something new is created from plant, water, and heat?

We will also allow space for that.


Knowledge, but not as a lecture

The Phytonauts do not see themselves as classic seminar organizers.
We want to make knowledge experienceable.
Therefore, short knowledge blocks alternate with observation, conversation, practical work, and shared experiences.

You do not need to bring any botanical or technical prior knowledge.

Curiosity is enough.


And then things get cozy

While the distillation runs, something is created that is missing in many courses:

Time. Time for conversations. Time to look. Time to smell. Time for questions. Time to get to know people.
The still is working – and we have the opportunity to engage in conversation.
That is exactly what belongs to the Phytonaut experience for us.


You won’t leave empty-handed

At the end of the day, you will not only have learned a lot about a plant and the art of distillation.
You will have witnessed the creation of a hydrosol live.
And of course, every participant receives a small bottle of hydrosol to take home.


Who is it for?

For people,

who find plants fascinating,
who have always wanted to know how distillation works,
who are interested in essential oils and hydrosols,
who like to experience things themselves instead of just listening,
who want to view nature from a different perspective,

and for all those who simply want to spend an unusual, sensual, and educational day.


No prior knowledge required.


The facts:
Location: Artfarm / Pölzgraben
Waltenbach 42
8712 Niklasdorf

Duration: approx. 5 hours

Number of participants: small group
Price: € 120,- per person

Including: Workshop, materials, and a freshly distilled Phytonauts hydrosol


More info & registration
Tel: 06991 5665 386
or email to: office@mikeandthemuse.com