Benefits of Potpourri

Potpourri is made from dried flower petals, spices and fragrant oils. Its scent is similar to that of perfume and when used can be very soothing. Another name for using potpourri is known as aromatherapy. Potpourri can be made with very little trouble at home with your own ingredients. However, for the last thirty years, potpourri has been produced and sold in packages to consumers. The potpourri market is currently a 3 billion dollar business in the U.S. alone

Potpourri is very easy to make. The main ingredients are: flowers, leaves, fragrant oil, spices and herbs. The most popular flowers for making potpourri are roses and lavender. Other flower choices include violets, honeysuckle, carnations and peonies. Spices used in potpourri are usually those of cinnamon, cloves and allspice, as well as nutmeg. Herbs are important to use in making potpourri. Some common herbs are rosemary and thyme, along with mint, bay leaves and basil. Oils that work best are eucalyptus oil, almond, sandalwood, ginger and vanilla. Peppermint, lemon and lavender oils are also very popular in making potpourri.

The two steps in making potpourri are first, selecting the ingredients you want and second, drying the mix. Remember to collect at least four times the amount needed since drying causes the mixture to shrink. It is important to be gentle with the flowers and herbs. Any rough handling can cause bruising and this can diminish the aroma and scent of the mixture.

The benefits of potpourri and aromatherapy help in calming and stress relief. Also, the fragrance from using potpourri can help in increasing mood elevation. Another form of aromatherapy is a scented candle. Vanilla and cinnamon scented candles are well known for their soothing aroma and work best if used during the evening hours before bedtime.

Once you have the potpourri made and you are ready to benefit from your careful labor and efforts, there are several ways to use what you have. One method is using an electric potpourri pot. These pots come with a lid that you keep over the pot as it simmers slowly. The lid is made to allow the steam and fragrance to escape. First, place a small amount of the potpourri and water into the pot. Cover and let it simmer. The aroma usually lasts for several hours. You can add mixture and water as needed. This method works best for just one room to be scented.

Another way to benefit from using potpourri is to make sachets. Place these small packets in various rooms of your house or apartment. Used generously, the smell will spice up the room. This method is excellent if you want to improve fragrance throughout the entire home vs. just one area.

You can also use sachets of potpourri by freshening clothes drawers and closets. A nice way to send a romantic letter is to add some of your favorite scent inside the envelope or stationery itself. The use of potpourri is up to the individual. Imagination and creativity is important. Making and using potpourri can be an art. Enjoy.

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