Fall cleaning: It’s not as common a phrase as “spring cleaning,” but preparing our nests for the long winter is just as wonderful as cleaning out the cobwebs after a cold season spent indoors. And using botanical oils to get our homes cozy for fall is a natural way to nix cold-weather illnesses and boost spirits.
Fall Scents to Warm the Home and Heart
Warming botanicals are high in both phenylpropane and terpenoid compounds, among the strongest antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic agents known in the botanical world, says Marcel Lavabre, author of Aromatherapy Workbook. By carefully using spicy and earthy scents we may not only help prevent harmful viruses from entering our homes, but also help fight the bacteria that tend to accumulate in spaces closed up tight against the elements. In addition to cleansing the home, these warm and inviting scents can stimulate the nervous system and may even sharpen the mind, as new research on rosemary indicates.
- Anise: The slightly sweet and aromatic scent of anise has spicy undertones. It is commonly described as licorice-like. In addition to being a powerful antiseptic, anise also has antifungal properties, as detailed in a 2005 study in the journal Acta Pharmaceutica. The essential oil makes a potent ingredient in any disinfectant cleanser. Historically renowned all over the world for its medicinal properties, the oil can also be used in a diffuser to promote relaxation and a healthy respiratory system. (Learn how to make your own reed diffuser with our video.)
- Cinnamon: One of the oldest spices used by humans, cinnamon has a characteristic spicy fragrance. Various studies have reported the strong antimicrobial activity in cinnamon extract, and the essential oil has been found to be especially effective in repelling insects. Cinnamon’s stimulating volatile oils are also vasodilating, increasing circulation and warmth in the body. Use in a disinfectant spray, sachet or simmering potpourri for a delicious-smelling and healthy home.
Making your own cleansers for a fresh home is easy and economical. The first step is to stock up on basic ingredients such as white vinegar, baking soda and a few spray bottles. Then, gather some old towels or T-shirts to use for rags. Finally, use the scents of warming essential oils in any one of these easy formulas for a fresh fall fragrance.
Clove Spice Air Freshener
- 1 cup water
- 10 drops cinnamon essential oil
- 5 drops anise essential oil
- 5 drops clove essential oil
- 1 tablespoon witch hazel
- Combine all ingredients well.
- Pour into a spray bottle or atomizer.
- Spray generously throughout the home, avoiding contact with eyes.
Rosemary-Fir All-Purpose Disinfectant Cleaner
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 25 drops rosemary essential oil
- 25 drops fir essential oil
- Combine all ingredients well.
- Pour into a large spray bottle.
- Use to cleanse and disinfect kitchens, bathrooms and countertops.
Cinnamon-Anise Carpet Freshener
- 5 cups baking soda
- 50 drops cinnamon essential oil
- 20 drops anise essential oil
- Blend ingredients together thoroughly.
- Store in large Mason jar.
- Drill or hammer holes in lid of Mason jar for a sprinkle top.
- Sprinkle generously over carpets. Leave overnight or for several hours before vacuuming well.
Homemade Potpourri
Potpourris and sachets are great ways to introduce warm scents into the home. Simply gather up a mix of the whole dried plants below and place them in a large jar, vase or bowl. If you wish, add scent by sprinkling a few drops of essential oil over the mixture and stir well. Place throughout the home or tie up sachets of the mixture to place in drawers. To infuse even more scent and moisture into your home, simmer a few cups of potpourri with 2 to 4 cups water on the back of the stove.
