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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.


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


5 Ayurvedic Herbs Winning the Anti‑Ageing Game
Discover the power of Anti‑Ageing Ayurvedic Herbs to rejuvenate your skin and mind. Learn how these Anti‑Ageing Ayurvedic Herbs offer natural vitality.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


10 Natural Ways to Get Clear Skin at Home
Discover 10 natural ways to get clear skin at home, from honey masks to green tea toner. Learn skincare tips and easy remedies for healthier, glowing skin.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Natural Ways to Remove Damp Smell: Vinegar Cleaning Tips That Work
Discover how to Remove Damp Smell Naturally with vinegar cleaning tips. Transform your home with these simple, natural solutions to Remove Damp Smell Naturally.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Safflower Secrets: Tea, Skincare & Home Uses for This Underrated Herb
Discover the versatile world of Safflower in tea, skincare, and home uses. Discover how safflower can enhance your natural beauty and wellness routine.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Cute Travel Essentials: Mini Epsom Salt Potpourri with Essential Oils
Discover the ultimate travel essential: Mini Epsom Salt Potpourri. Perfect for freshening up on-the-go, this Mini Epsom Salt Potpourri is a must-have!
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Homemade Pumpkin Spice Air Freshener – Naturally Scent Your Home
Discover how to make a natural Pumpkin Spice Air Freshener for your home. Enjoy the cosy scent of Pumpkin Spice Air Freshener without harsh chemicals.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Simple Autumn Bath Rituals for Slow Evenings
Discover the magic of Autumn Bath Rituals for slow evenings. Unwind and relax with these simple Autumn Bath Rituals to welcome the season.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


DIY Pumpkin Spice Body Scrub: A Cosy Treat for Your Skin
Discover the perfect seasonal treat with our DIY Pumpkin Spice Body Scrub. Indulge in a cosy, skin-loving experience with Pumpkin Spice Body Scrub.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


DIY Cocktail-Inspired Herbal Teas: Part 2
Discover more Cocktail-Inspired Herbal Teas in Part 2! Enjoy 5 new botanical blends, perfect for garden parties or a relaxing tea moment.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


DIY Herbal Smudge Sticks: Seasonal, Simple, Beautiful
Discover how to create your own DIY Herbal Smudge Sticks using seasonal herbs. Learn to make beautiful, respectful DIY Herbal Smudge Sticks today!
Astrid van Essen
5 min read


DIY Reed Diffuser Recipe: Naturally Scent Your Home with Essential Oils
Discover a simple DIY Reed Diffuser Recipe to scent your home with essential oils naturally. This DIY Reed Diffuser Recipe is easy and toxin-free!
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


5 Refreshing Infused Water Recipes for Natural Hydration
Discover 5 simple and refreshing infused water recipes using fresh herbs, fruits, and botanicals. Perfect for summer hydration and a healthy lifestyle.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read
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