Cozy Healing Stovetop Simmer
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We are battling sickness in our house this week, and it has hit hard. The flu has made its way through our family, bringing sore throats, coughs, tight chests, and restless nights. Similar to many other families I’m sure, I’ve been doing a lot of searching for ways to support sore throats, coughs, and asthma naturally or with at home remedies (in addition to doctor visits and prescriptions). There is so much information out there that it can feel overwhelming .
Then I remembered an herbal book tucked in with my cookbooks: The Alchemy of Herbs by Rosalee de la Forêt. I love this book because it highlights ingredients many of us already have in our kitchens and explains how they can be used, alone or together, to gently support the body through sickness and everyday ailments.
Inspired by both my research and the recipes in the book, I decided to try a simple, natural stovetop air freshener using whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, and a splash of lemon juice. I originally planned to add orange peel, but since I live with two tiny fruit monsters, there wasn’t a peel to be found. 🍊
When I say this scent filled the entire house, I truly mean it.
I filled a small pot about halfway with water, added one tablespoon of whole cloves and a few cinnamon sticks, brought it to a boil, then turned it down to a gentle simmer. It instantly made our home feel warmer, cozier, and calmer. I will admit the first time I did this, the cloves were very overpowering, so I adjusted for more of a balanced ratio. Just be sure not to forget it on the stove add more water if you let it simmer for a long time.
Why cloves and cinnamon?
Whole cloves have long been used to help freshen the air and support breathing. Their warm, spicy scent feels cleansing and comforting, especially when everyone is congested or coughing.
Cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness to the air. It’s comforting, cozy, and perfect for cold and flu season. Together, cloves and cinnamon create a scent that feels like care simple, familiar, and soothing for both body and home.
Cozy Healing Stovetop Simmer
Ingredients
4 cups water (or enough to fill a small pot halfway)
1 tablespoon whole cloves
2–3 cinnamon sticks
Optional: 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice or citrus peel
Instructions
Add all ingredients to a small pot.
Bring to a gentle boil on the stove.
Reduce heat and let simmer.
Enjoy the cozy, comforting aroma as it fills your home.
Add more water as needed if simmering for an extended time.
Tip: Never leave unattended—this is a slow, loving simmer, not a rushed one.
Wellness Note
This stovetop simmer is meant to support a cozy, comforting home environment and freshen the air naturally. While cloves and cinnamon have been traditionally used to support wellness, this is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any illness. Always follow your family’s healthcare provider’s guidance, this is not meant as a medical treatment, strictly for refreshing a sick environment. If strong scents ever feel irritating, discontinue use and adjust ingredients as needed.