Easy Fall Simmer Pot

We’ve had a cold front come through our area and it is starting to feel more like fall! Hip hip hooray! Autumn is such a cozy time of year! I love the crisp, cool air and the warm scents of cider or pumpkin spice! I used to love the smell of candles and wax warmers too, until I learned how toxic they were! These cozy-pleasant smelling options often come with hidden health risks.

Reducing my toxic exposure is one of the important things I focused on at the beginning of the cancer journey I went on. I had already begun to switch things out prior to that, but the cancer diagnosis gave me a kick in the butt to get even more serious about things!

Embracing natural scents, instead of synthetic, chemically created scents, can offer a safer and more holistic way to keep your home smelling fresh. But before I get to the super simple simmer pot recipe, here are a few compelling reasons to consider ditching the commercially created scented products:

1. Indoor Air Quality Concerns

Candles, especially those made from paraffin wax (the most common type), release harmful chemicals into the air. When burned, paraffin wax can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like benzene and toluene, which have been linked to cancer and respiratory issues. A 2009 study found that burning paraffin wax candles released toxic chemicals that could impact indoor air quality and pose long-term health risks . These chemicals can linger in the air long after the candle has burned out, reducing the air quality in your home and potentially leading to respiratory irritation or allergies.

2. Fragrance Chemicals

Many wax warmers and plug-ins use synthetic fragrances, which can contain hundreds of chemicals not disclosed on the product labels due to proprietary reasons. These fragrances often include phthalates, chemicals used to make the scent last longer, but which are also linked to hormone disruption. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that phthalates can interfere with endocrine function, affecting hormones in ways that may contribute to health issues like reproductive problems, asthma, and allergies .

3. Formaldehyde & Other Carcinogens

Some scented candles and plug-ins release formaldehyde—a known carcinogen—when heated. Formaldehyde exposure is associated with nasal and respiratory cancers. The American Lung Association also warns that air fresheners, plug-ins, and other chemical-based fragrances can contribute to chronic respiratory issues, especially in children and those with pre-existing lung conditions .

4. Asthma and Allergy Triggers

Synthetic scents in candles, wax melts, and plug-ins can be irritating for individuals with asthma, allergies, or sensitive respiratory systems. The chemicals they release are known to trigger asthma attacks or cause allergic reactions. Even those without respiratory issues might experience headaches, dizziness, or fatigue from breathing in these synthetic fragrances regularly.

5. Natural Scents Are Healthier and Eco-Friendly

Using natural alternatives, like essential oils, dried herbs, or simmer pots with fruits and spices, allows you to enjoy beautiful scents without risking your health. Pure essential oils, for example, offer not only delightful aromas but also potential therapeutic benefits. For instance, lavender oil can help with relaxation, while citrus oils like lemon and orange are uplifting and energizing. When diffused properly, essential oils don’t release harmful chemicals, and their natural properties can support your well-being.

Ok, I’m convinced! Show me the Simmer Pot Recipe!

Ok, ok, I’m getting to it! There are a lot of simmer pot recipes out there online that will give you a deliciously scented home. But this time I didn’t really have some of the ingredients for some of the recipes I’ve collected, but I did have an apple, cinnamon and cloves! All of these will give off a delightfully cozy autumn smell! So I went for it!

Sometimes you just have to use what you have! So I threw the apples, peels, cores and all, into a small crockpot with some cinnamon sticks and cloves and about 4 cups of water and just let it simmer away, making the house smell divine!

Simple Fall Simmer Pot

Let this simple simmer pot recipe create a cozy, comforting smell in your home this autumn.

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Ingredients

• 2-3 apples of your choice, enough to fill your crockpot
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 Tbsp cloves, whole
• 4 cups water

Instructions

1. Slice your apples and place them in a small crockpot.
2. Add the cinnamon sticks and cloves and add the water to the crockpot.
3. Turn the crockpot on low and let it simmer all day.
4. Periodically check to make sure the water hasn't evaporated and add more as needed.

Notes

This recipe is a great way to use any apple peels or cores you may have left over from other recipes as well.

By avoiding synthetic fragrance products and embracing natural scents, you’re prioritizing not only your personal health but also the health of your family. Plus, with endless combinations of natural ingredients, you can create a custom scent experience that’s as unique, personal and healthy as you are.

It feels good to know that your home smells great and is truly safe for everyone! Switching to natural scents is a simple yet powerful way to keep your space fresh and uplifting, without compromising your health!

To your health and healing!