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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.
Botanicals
A curated collection of botanical recipes using herbs, flowers, and natural ingredients. Discover beautiful ways to use botanicals in everyday rituals, from cocktail and mocktail blends to simmer pots and simple syrups.


DIY Body Oil for Mature Skin: How to Make Nourishing Natural Blends at Home
Make a DIY body oil for mature skin with natural carrier and essential oils. Hydrate, soften lines, and restore a healthy glow at home.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


How Natural Scents Can Enhance Your Home's Atmosphere
Enhance your home with natural scents. Discover how natural scents can create a calming and inviting atmosphere in your space.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Transform Your Space with Natural Aromas
Enhance your home with natural aromas. Learn how natural aromas can create a fresh and inviting atmosphere in your space.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Lavender Sleep Milk Recipe: A Natural Bedtime Drink for Restful Nights
Discover the soothing Lavender Sleep Milk Recipe, a natural bedtime drink for restful nights. Try this Lavender Sleep Milk Recipe for better sleep.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


What Is Natural Healing? A Gentle Guide to Remedies for Headaches, Anxiety & Stress
Discover what natural healing really means and how it can ease headaches, anxiety, and stress. Explore gentle remedies and calming rituals for everyday wellness.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


How to Make Autumn Equinox Potpourri with Epsom Salt
Discover how to make Autumn Equinox Potpourri with Epsom Salt. Create a soulful, scented atmosphere with these easy, customisable blends.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Spiced Chai Bath Salts: A Cosy Treat for Cold Days
Discover the cosy comfort of Spiced Chai Bath Salts. Perfect for cold days, these bath salts blend warming spices for a soothing soak.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Struggling to Sleep? Try This Calming Herbal Tea with Lavender & Sage
Experience the calming effects of Herbal Sleep Tea, featuring lavender and sage. This Herbal Sleep Tea promotes restful nights and relaxation naturally.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Pulse Points Explained: Where to Apply Essential Oil Perfume for Best Results
Discover the secrets of pulse points for applying essential oil perfume. Learn how pulse points enhance scent longevity and amplify fragrance.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Scent Layering: Herbal Body Oils That Layer Beautifully
Discover the art of Scent Layering with herbal body oils that beautifully complement your favourite perfume. Master Scent Layering today!
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


DIY Pinecone Fire Starters: Natural, Fragrant & Perfect for Gifting
Discover how to make DIY Pinecone Fire Starters that are natural, fragrant, and perfect for gifting. Learn to craft unique DIY Pinecone Fire Starters.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


How Natural Scents Transform Your Living Space
Explore natural scents for your home. Enhance your space with natural scents and enjoy the calming benefits of botanical fragrances.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


How to Make Incense Cones at Home: Easy Natural Recipes & Tips
Discover how to make incense cones at home with easy recipes & tips. Learn how to make incense cones at home using natural ingredients today!
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Hand of Fatima Wax Tablet for Protection and Natural Home Fragrance
Discover the power of the Hand of Fatima Wax Tablet for protection and natural home fragrance. Enhance your space with this symbolic wax charm.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


How to Make a Protective Herb Jar: A Modern Take on Traditional Witch Bottles
Discover how to create a Protective Herb Jar, a modern twist on witch bottles, to shield your space and spirit. Learn to craft your own Protective Herb Jar today!
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Moulding Magic: How to Make Herbal Beeswax Candles by Hand
Discover the art of slow living with "How to Make Herbal Beeswax Candles by Hand." Craft beautiful, aromatic candles with ease and creativity.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Transforming Your Space with Natural and Inviting Scents
Explore natural scents for your home. Natural scents can create a calming and inviting space with botanical-inspired fragrances.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Natural Remedies to Reduce Puffy Skin and Under-Eye Circles
Discover effective Natural Remedies for Puffy Skin and Under-Eye Circles. Learn simple herbal solutions to refresh and soothe tired skin today!
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Essential Oils for Clear Skin: What Works and What to Avoid
Discover the best essential oils for clear skin, including tea tree, lavender, and rosehip oil. Learn which oils suit your skin type and what to avoid.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


DIY Herbal Tinctures: 10 Best Herbs and Their Benefits for Sleep, Anxiety, Detox and More
Discover the Best DIY Herbal Tinctures for sleep, anxiety, and detox. Learn how to make the Best DIY Herbal Tinctures at home with our guide.
Astrid van Essen
5 min read
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