Herbal Hacks Creative Ways to Use Herbs in Crafts and Relaxation From the calming characteristics of lavender to the practice of pressing plants, our readers find all sorts of ways to add a bit of herbiness to their crafty arts and relaxing rituals. Please enjoy our next installment of reader-submitted herbal hacks–herbs for crafts, health, and beauty.
Natural Gnat Repellent
I place a little crystal bowl of lavender buds on my bedside table. It helps me relax and get a good night’s sleep. – Janice Cox
Spray your pillow at night with lavender water for a relaxing sleep. – Kim Labash
If you are unfortunate enough to have an allergic reaction to poison ivy while working in your yard, did you know that jewelweed can help with the itchiness? It usually grows nearby. Just break off a stalk and rub the liquid onto the rash. – Janice Waite
Pressed Herbs for Beautiful Crafts
Pressed flowers and herbs make stunning additions to homemade cards, bookmarks, and framed art. Use a phone book or microwave press to preserve your favorite herbs, such as lavender, rosemary, or chamomile, and create unique, personalized gifts.
I love pressing herbs and flowers in a phone book or microwave press. I use the flowers for cards, bookmarks, etc. – Marilyn Roberts Rhinehalt
Before embroidering, wash your hands with lavender and lemon verbena soap–it keeps you calm and lends a lovely aroma to the work. – Kim Labash
Calming herbs such as calendula, parsley, and lavender make wonderful facial masks. Simply mix a tablespoon of natural clay with a teaspoon of fresh leaves or flowers, then add enough water to form a creamy mixture. – Janice Cox
Use a cloth on your lap when making lavender wands, and then gather the dropped heads and use for sachet making. – Kim Labash
On hot, humid days in the garden, when not a breath of air is stirring and the gnats insist on flinging themselves into your face, tuck several sprigs of southernwood (bruised to release the essential oils) into your headband or under your hat brim. It smells lovely and keeps the gnats at bay. – Kathleen McGowan
Fragrant Rose Bead Earrings
Buy a pair of rose bead earrings from the Potomac Unit of the Herb Society of America–the smell will waft around your head all day. 😉 – Kim Labash
I love pressing herbs to make note cards. I print quotes on the front, package them with envelopes, and give as gifts! Everyone loves them! – Dianne Duperior
Light a “heady” smelling candle, such as gardenia, before you get into the bath for a soak–you won’t regret it. – Kim Labash
Photo Credits: 1) Columbines (Pikrepo); 2) Pressed flower luminaries (Erin Holden); 3) Lavender wand and rose bead earrings (Erin Holden)
Conclusion
Incorporating herbs into your daily routine not only enhances relaxation and creativity but also connects you with nature in a meaningful way. Whether you are crafting, pampering yourself, or simply enjoying their natural fragrances, herbs offer an easy and enjoyable way to bring peace and beauty into your life. Embrace these herbal hacks and let nature’s gifts enrich your everyday moments.
