Simple Potpourri
By Brenda Hyde
Making potpourri is simple, but I know from experience
it can be overwhelming if you start with a batch of
something that has 20 ingredients! It's better to start
very simple and get the hang of it. After you try a few
basic recipes then you can add a couple more ingredients
and get a feel for the fragrance that suits you.
You will recognize most of the ingredients, but orris
root and gum benzoin may not be as familiar. Orris
root is a dried ground rizome from a variety of Iris. Gum benzoin
is a nontoxic resin. Both are inexpensive and go a long way.
I buy mine from Glenbrook Farm Herbs
Simple Rose Potpourri
You will need:
1 quart rose petals
3 tablespoons ground orris root
8 drops rose essential oil
Place in a covered plastic container for
3-4 weeks, stirring occasionally. If the
scent does not seem strong enough you
may add more oil. You can also substitute
dried lavender blooms and lavender essential oil. Store in a pretty
jar or use as you would other potpourri.
A Classic Potpourri
You will need:
1 pint each dried peppermint, thyme and lavender
1 tablespoon of crushed spiced (cloves, coriander and nutmeg)
2 tablespoons crushed caraway seed
1 tablespoon crushed gum benzoin
This traditional recipe calls for mixing the items in a crock-
filling about 2/3 full and covering it for 6 weeks to blend;
stirring or shaking occasionally. I happen to have two
medium sized crocks, but if you don't have one you can
use a ceramic container. After 6 weeks you can divide
into jars for gifts. As it ages it will mellow.
About the Author
Brenda is a freelance writer, wife and mom to three
living in Michigan. She is also editor of Old Fashioned
Living.com.
