Scent has long been known to impact mood and wellness, but traditional methods like candles and essential oil diffusers aren’t the only options anymore. A new trend gaining popularity is the simmer pot – and for good reason.
“Simmer pots offer an easy, natural method for aromatherapy and work as a natural air freshener,” says homesteader Lindsey Chastain on IKEA Hackers. Unlike other devices, simmer pots gently infuse the air with beneficial plant essences through low heat.
Chastain explains how it works: “You add herbs, citrus peels, flowers – anything aromatic really – to a pot of water. As it bubbles on the stove, the rising steam carries those fragrances throughout the space.”
Best of all, simmer pots provide customized control. “You can tailor the blend to your needs – energizing scents in the morning or calming before bed,” Chastain notes. And with no added chemicals, it’s a safe and sustainable choice.
With endless ingredient combinations, simmer pots allow anyone to experience the spa-like benefits of aromatherapy in their own home.
As interest in simmer pots grows, experts emphasize using low, sustained heat to fully release the power of natural plant essences over time. It’s an aromatherapy method that’s easy on both mind and wellness.
Distributing Heat Evenly for Optimal Aromatherapy
Simmer pots rely on gentle, sustained heat to fully release the aromas from ingredients over time. So, the vessel itself plays an important role.
“You want a pot that heats evenly without hot spots,” Chastain says. Such hot spots could scorch delicate ingredients. “Thin pots are also a no-go, as they may warp or cause scorching with prolonged use.”
Chastain recommends sturdy, low-maintenance pots like stainless steel or enameled cast iron. “They distribute heat well and are durable enough for regular simmering.”
Use a slow cooker for a low maintenance simmer pot
For those seeking an even lower maintenance option, some simmer pot enthusiasts are now experimenting with slow cookers. The slow cooker provides a hands-free way to enjoy fragrant home aromatherapy without the need to keep an eye on the water level.
Just add your ingredients to the stoneware insert, fill with water, and set it on high. When the water boils, turn the heat down and let the slow cooker’s low heat do the work all day on its own.
While slow cookers don’t allow for quite as much customization of the simmering process, they’re ideal for set-it-and-forget-it use. On busy weekdays when you don’t want to fuss with the stove, the slow cooker simmer pot keeps the home filled with lovely scents without any effort. For those after maximum convenience, the slow cooker opens up new possibilities for easy aromatherapy.
The Process of Creating a Soothing Scent
With the right pot selected, Chastain walks us through her simple simmering method:
“Start by adding your fragrant herbs, citrus peels, flowers – really anything with essential oils. Then fill with water until the ingredients are submerged.”
From there, she brings the pot to a boil before reducing the heat. “A gentle simmer is key to allow the flavors to fully meld and release over several hours.”
Chastain also suggests keeping an eye on the water level. “Top it off as needed so the ingredients continue to steep throughout the day.”
Chastain shares 5 of her favorite simmer pot recipes to add warmth and comfort to your home this fall.
Warming Cinnamon Apple Simmer Pot Recipe
Place the following ingredients in a large pot and cover with water. Simmer on low heat for a comforting autumn aroma:
- Simmer sliced apples
- Cinnamon sticks
- Whole cloves
- Orange slices
Soothing Lavender Vanilla Simmer Pot Recipe
Place ingredients in an enameled cast iron Dutch oven with water. Simmer gently to scent the air:
- Dried lavender buds
- Vanilla beans
- Lemon slices
Uplifting Citrus Spice Simmer Pot Recipe
Let ingredients mingle on low heat for a bright, festive room fragrance:
- Whole cloves
- Sliced ginger
- Orange peel trimmings
Calming Chamomile Simmer Pot Recipe
The potpourri will infuse the home with relaxing aromas:
- Chamomile flowers
- Rosemary
- Mint leaves
Sweet Simmer Potpourri Recipe
Punch it up with a tropical, spiced scent this autumn:
- Cinnamon sticks
- Nutmeg
- Allspice berries
- Pineapple peels
Saving or Disposing of Ingredients
Once you have finished simmering, you can drain and save the ingredients for future use. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Ingredients can be reused for up to a week or until they lose their scent.
Once ingredients have lost their scent or you are done using them, they can be composted or thrown away.
Here’s to simmering success!
Read the full article on IKEA Hackers.
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