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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


Refreshing Herbal Cold Brews: Best Summer Herbs to Keep You Cool
Discover the best herbs for Herbal Cold Brews this summer. Learn how to make refreshing Herbal Cold Brews to keep you cool and hydrated.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


DIY Cocktail-Inspired Herbal Teas Part 1
Discover the vibrant world of Cocktail-Inspired Herbal Teas. Learn to craft delicious, alcohol-free blends that bring cocktail vibes to your tea time.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Herbal Tea Series: Lemon Balm Tea Benefits: Energy & Focus
Discover the soothing Lemon Balm Tea Benefits for energy and focus. Learn how Lemon Balm Tea Benefits can calm nerves and enhance clarity.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Herbal Iced Tea: The Coolest Way to Sip Summer
Discover the ultimate summer refreshment with Herbal Iced Tea. Learn how to craft delicious herbal iced cold brew blends using fresh or dried ingredients.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Herbal Tea Series: Sage Tea Benefits. A Grounding Brew
Discover Sage Tea Benefits for a grounding brew that supports hormonal balance, boosts memory, and soothes sore throats. Explore Sage Tea Benefits now!
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Natural Sun Protection for Mature Skin: Gentle Ways to Prevent Dark Spots
Discover gentle sun protection for mature skin to prevent dark spots. Learn natural remedies that offer effective sun protection for mature skin.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Natural Remedies for Sunburn: Gentle Ways to Soothe and Heal
Discover effective Natural Remedies for Sunburn to soothe and heal your skin gently. Learn how to use these remedies for sunburn relief today.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Herbal Shower Bundles: Simple Rituals with Botanical Benefits
Discover the botanical benefits of Herbal Shower Bundles! Transform your shower into a spa with Herbal Shower Bundles and enjoy natural relaxation.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Herbal Tea Series: Lavender Tea Benefits: Fragrant & Soothes the Senses
Discover lavender tea benefits for relaxation and digestion. Unwind with lavender tea benefits and enjoy a fragrant, soothing experience.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Easy DIY Toners Using Herbal Teas & Flower Waters
Gentle, natural toners to support your skin at any age – a calming step in your basic skincare routine When I started creating a basic...
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Embracing the Lavender Girl Lifestyle: A Soft Minimalist Approach to Mindful Living
Discover the Lavender Girl Lifestyle: a soft minimalist approach to mindful living. Embrace Lavender Girl Lifestyle for a serene, curated home.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


How to Preserve Summer: Simmer Pot Recipes and Homemade Jam Ideas
Discover how to preserve summer with Simmer Pot and Homemade Jam. Learn to make delicious jams and fragrant simmer pots effortlessly.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


5 DIY Epsom Salt Scrub Recipes for Glowing Skin
Discover 5 DIY Epsom Salt Scrub Recipes for glowing skin. Easy, natural, and aromatic, these DIY Epsom Salt Scrub Recipes are a treat!
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Herbal Tea Series: Chamomile Tea Benefits: A Brew for Calm and Sleep
Discover Chamomile Tea Benefits for relaxation and sleep. Explore how this soothing brew can enhance your evenings with its calming effects.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Epsom Salt for Natural Fragrance: 7 Ways to Use It in Your Home
Discover 7 creative ways to use Epsom Salt for Natural Fragrance in your home. Enhance your space naturally with Epsom Salt for Natural Fragrance.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Herbal Tea Series: Rosemary Tea Benefits: A Brew for Mind & Body
Discover the stimulating power of Rosemary Tea Benefits for the mind and body. Learn how Rosemary Tea Benefits can boost focus and soothe digestion.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


DIY Shower Mists: Easy Aromatherapy for Shower Lovers
Discover DIY Shower Mists to elevate your shower routine with easy aromatherapy. Learn how to create DIY Shower Mists for a refreshing escape.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Why Is Sage Used for Cleansing? Traditional Uses and Ethical Alternatives
Discover why sage is used for cleansing and explore ethical alternatives. Learn about the history, benefits, and how to practice respectfully.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


Herbal Baths Benefits: A Natural Way to Relax and Rejuvenate
Discover the soothing power of Herbal Baths Benefits. Learn how Herbal Baths Benefits can relax your mind and rejuvenate your body naturally.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


How to Make Your Home Fragrance Mist with Essential Oils
Create your own home fragrance mist with essential oils! Discover how to make natural, customizable home fragrance mists with simple ingredients.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read
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