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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.


Thoughtful Christmas Gifts with Crystals for Healing — A Meaningful Way to Share Calm and Care
Discover thoughtful Christmas gift ideas using crystals for healing and natural herbs. From calming sachets to simmer blends, explore meaningful, mindful presents that nurture wellbeing and warmth.
Astrid van Essen
5 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


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


How to Make Potpourri: A Natural Way to Freshen Your Home
Discover how to make potpourri for a natural way to freshen your home. Learn simple steps to create your own potpourri and enhance your space.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


DIY Epsom Salt Potpourri: 5 Seasonal Blends for a Naturally Fragrant Home
Discover how to create Epsom Salt Potpourri with 5 seasonal blends for a naturally fragrant home. Transform your space with Epsom Salt Potpourri.
Astrid van Essen
3 min read


How to Create a Naturally Scented Home with Botanical Elements
Transform your space into a scented home. Explore botanical ways to create a beautifully scented home with natural elements.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


How to Make Solid Perfume Using Beeswax and Essential Oils
Discover how to make solid perfume with beeswax and essential oils for a natural, pocket-friendly fragrance. Learn how to make solid perfume today!
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


How to Make the Perfect Potpourri Blend: A Year-Round Natural Guide
Discover how to make the perfect potpourri blend with our year-round natural guide. Learn how to make the perfect potpourri blend today!
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


The Best Herbs & Flowers for Dried Potpourri (and How to Grow Them at Home)
Discover the best herbs and flowers for potpourri to fill your home with natural fragrance. Learn how to grow the best herbs and flowers for potpourri.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Mood-Based Simmer Pot Recipes: Natural Scents for Every Feeling
Discover how mood-based simmer pot recipes can naturally transform your home! Find classic, exotic, and creative simmer pot ideas to suit every feeling.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Create Your Personalised Stovetop Pot Pourri: Natural Scents for Unforgettable Moments
Discover how Personalised Stovetop Pot Pourri can create unforgettable moments with natural scents. Learn about crafting your unique potpourri today!
Astrid van Essen
2 min read


How to Harvest and Dry Flowers for Potpourri, Simmer Pots, and Natural Home Décor
Discover how to harvest and dry flowers to create stunning potpourri, simmer pots, and natural home décor. Discover the art of harvesting and drying flowers effectively.
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


Full Moon Ritual And Simmer Pot Recipe for Setting Intentions
Discover the Full Moon Simmer Pot Recipe to set your intentions with ease. Create a calming ritual with our Full Moon Simmer Pot Recipe today!
Astrid van Essen
4 min read


10 Cocktail-Inspired Potpourri Blends for Summer Vibes
Discover 10 Cocktail-Inspired Potpourri Blends to infuse your home with summer vibes. Perfect for parties or gifts, these blends are a must-try!
Astrid van Essen
6 min read
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