Wellness DIY: Stovetop Aromatherapy
Let’s be real…things are a little nutty right now.
But on a positive note, I’ve been seeing such a huge increased interest for homesteading practices. More and more of you are sending in questions about your garden, bread making and ways to nourish and nurture yourself and loved ones during this unexpected time at home. I’m thrilled to connect with so many people all over the world looking for ways to not only focus on your physical health…but our mental health as well. Activities such as gardening, cooking and crafts help give a moment for your mind to wander - it is important to focus on these kinds of creative and loving acts rather than the stress we can't control in the world right now.
Aromatherapy has always been a part of my daily routine. I have an immunity boosting oil blend I apply before sleep or a hot shower that has a combo of bay laurel, spruce, and ginger which really opens up your head and chest. I also diffuse a combination of peppermint, lavender and lemon at night which gives me a sense of calm and peaceful sleep. Over the weekend I put together a bubbling pot of odds and ends from the garden and spice drawer to freshen up the house, which caught the attention of Domino Magazine. I never thought a simple act of DIY aromatherapy would ever be of mass interest, then again we are living in a time where self care is more important than ever.
I know a lot of people don’t have a huge stockpile of essential oils on hand, so it’s been fun to share ways to create the same mood boosting (or calming) aromas using foraged items from your backyard garden and pantry. A big thanks to Domino for featuring this easy DIY, but I thought it important to document it here as well with a more robust list of ingredients and combinations for you to experiment with.
GARDEN & PANTRY AROMAS TO EXPERIMENT WITH
Citrus/Fruits: Orange, Lemon (try Meyer for a softer aroma), grapefruit, apple, cranberry
Woodsy: Pine/spruce branches, thyme, rosemary, juniper berries, sage, eucalyptus
Floral: Lavender, rose, bay leaf, citrus blossom, chamomile, geranium, jasmine, cardamon, coriander, vanilla extract
Spicy: Star Anise, peppercorns, cinnamon sticks, cloves, all spice, nutmeg, fresh ginger
Fresh: Basil, fresh mint, peppermint extract, lime, lemongrass
A FEW COMBOS TO TRY
Cardamon, ginger, rose petals, cloves, peppercorn
Juniper Berry, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Lemon
Cinnamon Sticks, Oranges, Geranium
Lavender, lemongrass, thyme, sea salt
Pine/Spruce, Orange, Mint or Peppermint
Cinnamon, Orange, Nutmeg
Rose petals, Lavender, Lemon, Orange
Star Anise, Cardamon, Orange
Chamomile, Lavender, Meyer lemon
Sage leaves, Ginger, Lavender, Lemon, Orange, Rosemary
Bay leaf, thyme, coriander, lemon, orange
Whole spices and fresh herbs work best, but don’t be afraid to use what you’ve got on hand and experiment for a blend that fits your unique personal needs and style. Simply fill a large pot with water, add ingredients, bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer on low. Replenish water as needed. If using dried herbs/ or powdered spices, try making a little satchel with cheesecloth and twine so tiny loose ingredients can mingle.
I hope that you’re able to spend some moments outdoors in the coming weeks, plucking a branch or a few herbs to bring that sense of freshness back inside with you. If you have some favorite combos that you’re going to try - please share them below! And if you’re stumped whipping up your own individual sent…let me know what you’ve got on hand and I’d love to help you out.
Most importantly, take care of yourself and wishing everyone good health.
xox, Kristin
