Clients of Uniquely Organic may already be aware of the delights and benefits of aromatherapy. As Christmas approaches, there are many ways in which this gentle art can be used to enhance the seasonal spirit whether in recipes, home-made presents or festive ambience and decorations. This month we bring you some ideas of how essential oils can be used in the kitchen and as the basis for individual Christmas gifts.
Christmas food and drink
An essential oil can sometimes turn a good recipe into a great one. Add a drop of lemon or orange oil to your mincemeat and watch your household flock to the kitchen at the first waft of your mince-pies. A spicy essential oil like ginger or cinnamon can add a kick to both the aroma and flavour of Christmas pud, while these and other oils distilled from spices, such as nutmeg, clove or mace are wonderful in Christmas cake.
Did you know you can also make mulled wine using essential oils instead of spices and fruit? Try blending a drop or two of cinnamon, clove, and your choice of citrus essential oil in two tablespoons of honey and stir this into a 750 ml of wine which has been slowly heating in a non-metallic saucepan. Whip it off the hob as soon as it starts to bubble, allow to cool a little, then serve in wine glasses whose rims have been wetted and pre-dipped in sugar... well, it is Christmas and it warms the cockles of your heart!
Christmas food and drink
An essential oil can sometimes turn a good recipe into a great one. Add a drop of lemon or orange oil to your mincemeat and watch your household flock to the kitchen at the first waft of your mince-pies. A spicy essential oil like ginger or cinnamon can add a kick to both the aroma and flavour of Christmas pud, while these and other oils distilled from spices, such as nutmeg, clove or mace are wonderful in Christmas cake.
Did you know you can also make mulled wine using essential oils instead of spices and fruit? Try blending a drop or two of cinnamon, clove, and your choice of citrus essential oil in two tablespoons of honey and stir this into a 750 ml of wine which has been slowly heating in a non-metallic saucepan. Whip it off the hob as soon as it starts to bubble, allow to cool a little, then serve in wine glasses whose rims have been wetted and pre-dipped in sugar... well, it is Christmas and it warms the cockles of your heart!
