top of page
Simmer&Stir Blog – Natural Scents & Botanical Recipes
Welcome to Simmer & Stir — a place for seasonal inspiration, natural home fragrance and simple botanical recipes. Discover simmer pots, potpourri, herbal drinks, homemade syrups and easy ideas for bringing the scents and flavours of the season into your home.


Herbal Bath Sachets: An Easy Botanical Bath DIY
Make reusable herbal bath sachets with dried herbs, flowers, salts and optional colloidal oats, with blend ideas, storage and safe-use tips.
Astrid van Essen
6 min read


Hibiscus and Citrus Bath Sachet: A Botanical Recipe
Make a hibiscus and citrus bath sachet with dried peel, Epsom salt and optional colloidal oats, including safe use, storage and gifting tips.
Astrid van Essen
5 min read


DIY Lavender Bath Salts with Lavender from the Garden
Turn properly dried garden lavender into homemade bath salts with a simple recipe, safe essential-oil dilution, storage tips and easy variations.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


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 with Dried Botanicals
Learn how to make herbal bath salts with properly dried flowers and herbs, including a safe base recipe, blend ideas, storage and gift packaging.
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


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


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


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


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


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


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


Summer Skin Care: DIY Epsom Salt Soak for Sunburn Relief
Discover the benefits of an Epsom Salt Soak for Sunburn relief! Soothe and refresh sun-kissed skin with this simple DIY Epsom Salt Soak for Sunburn.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Greek Herbal Baths: Healing Waters with Timeless Benefits
Relax and restore with ancient Greek bath rituals. Learn how to use thyme, bay, and lavender for a nourishing soak.
Astrid van Essen
2 min read


Epsom Salt Foot Soak: How to Make and Use It
Make a simple Epsom salt foot soak at home, with sensible quantities, optional additions, skin-safety guidance and tips for cleaning up afterwards.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read
bottom of page