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Simmer&Stir Blog – Natural Scents & Botanical Recipes
Welcome to the Simmer&Stir blog, where scent meets slow living. Here, you’ll find a fragrant mix of simmer pot recipes, herbal blends, and natural home fragrance ideas to bring calm and comfort to your space. I also share simple, thoughtful recipes —perfect for cooking or gifting. From seasonal potpourri and cocktail-inspired botanicals to cosy kitchen creations, it’s all about making your home feel warm, welcoming, and wonderfully scented—one stir at a time.
All Posts


How to Make Rosemary Infused Oil: A Simple DIY Recipe
Discover how to make rosemary infused oil with our simple DIY guide. Learn how to make rosemary infused oil for natural beauty and self-care.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


How to Make Rosemary Water for Your Hair: A Simple DIY Recipe
Rosemary water has become one of the most popular natural hair care remedies in recent years. Across social media, thousands of people share how they use homemade rosemary water as part of their hair care routine. But what exactly is rosemary water, how do you make it, and how should you use it? The good news is that you don't need expensive products. With just two simple ingredients, you can make a fresh herbal infusion at home in less than 30 minutes and easily add it to yo
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Rosemary: Benefits, Uses and DIY Recipes for Hair, Skin & Wellbeing
Discover the amazing rosemary benefits for hair and skin! Learn how to use rosemary in DIY recipes for healthy hair and glowing skin today.
Astrid van Essen
5 min read


What Is Dry Brushing? Benefits, Technique & Tips for Softer, Healthier-Looking Skin
Discover What Is Dry Brushing? Learn the benefits, technique & tips for softer skin. What Is Dry Brushing? Explore this mindful self-care ritual.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


How to Make Herbal Bath Salts: A Natural DIY Gift for Relaxation
Discover how to make herbal bath salts for relaxation with our easy DIY guide. Create a natural, luxurious gift with herbal bath salts today!
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


DIY Nail Oil Soak: A Natural Treatment for Dry, Brittle Nails
Discover the benefits of DIY Nail Oil Soak for dry, brittle nails. Learn how to create a nourishing DIY Nail Oil Soak at home for healthier nails.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


7 Healing Spices to Add to Your Smoothie (and Why They're Worth It)
Discover the power of 7 Healing Spices For Smoothies! Transform your daily blend with these spices for added flavor and health benefits.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Herbal Remedies for Dry Eyes: Natural Ways to Soothe Dry, Irritated Eyes
Discover effective Herbal Remedies for Dry Eyes to naturally soothe irritation. Explore trusted herbs and tips for healthier, comfortable eyes.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Prep Herbal Ice Cubes for Instant Glass Skin: An Easy Natural Skincare Ritual
Discover the secret to radiant skin with Herbal Ice Cubes for Instant Glass Skin. Easy to make, these cubes offer a natural glow effortlessly.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Pumpkin Spice Wax Melts or Sachets – Handmade Autumn Home Fragrance
Discover the charm of Pumpkin Spice Wax Melts for a cosy autumn vibe. Handmade Pumpkin Spice Wax Melts bring warmth and a hint of spice to your home.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


What Is a Bouquet Garni? How to Use This Classic Herb Bundle
If you enjoy making homemade soups, stocks or slow-cooked meals, you've probably come across the term bouquet garni. This classic bundle of fresh herbs has been a staple of French cooking for centuries, adding subtle depth and aroma to a wide range of dishes. Although a bouquet garni serves a similar purpose to a herb sachet, the two aren't exactly the same. If you're new to herb sachets, start by reading our guide to What Is a Herb Sachet? to discover how they work and when
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


What Is a Herb Sachet? Everything You Need to Know
Discover what a herb sachet is and how to use it in cooking, tea, and wellness. Learn everything about what is a herb sachet and its versatility.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract: A Simple Guide
Discover how to make homemade vanilla extract with simple ingredients for a rich, pure flavor. Learn how to make homemade vanilla extract today!
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Air Fryer Dried Apples with Ginger
Discover how to make Air Fryer Dried Apples with a hint of ginger. Perfect for snacking or tea blends, these Air Fryer Dried Apples are a must-try!
Astrid van Essen
5 min read


How to Make Cranberry Syrup at Home (Plus Benefits, Uses & Colour Inspiration)
Learn how to make cranberry syrup at home with our easy guide. Learn the benefits, uses, and color inspiration of cranberry syrup.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


How to Make Pomegranate Syrup at Home (Plus Benefits, Uses & Colour Inspiration)
Learn how to make pomegranate syrup at home and explore its benefits, uses, and color inspiration. Discover the art of pomegranate syrup crafting!
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Add Natural Colour to Winter Cooking with Botanical Fruit & Vegetable Powders
Discover how Fruit and Vegetable Powders can transform your winter cooking! Add vibrant colors and nutrients to your dishes with Fruit and Vegetable Powders.
Astrid van Essen
5 min read


How to Make Orange Salt and Orange Pepper: Festive Seasonings for Winter Cooking
Discover how to make Orange Salt and Orange Pepper, perfect festive seasonings for winter cooking. Learn how to make Orange Salt and Orange Pepper easily.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


How to Make Flavoured Chocolate Milk: 5 Simple Variations
Learn how to make flavoured chocolate milk at home with five easy recipes using cinnamon, lavender, cardamom, nutmeg and chilli. Simple, cosy and delicious.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


7 Herbal & Spice-Infused Winter Drinks to Boost Immunity and Wellness
Discover seven easy herbal and spice-infused winter drinks that naturally support immunity and wellness. Simple recipes using everyday botanicals.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read
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