This is an excerpt from the article “The Herbal Winter Hearth” by Julia Linsteadt featured in the Winter Vol 3 | Issue 11 | 2024 edition of Botanical Anthology.
Explore the history and traditions associated with the hearth, focusing on the use of herbs to create a cozy and festive atmosphere including the yule log, herbal bundles, and cinnamon simmer pots, check out the entire article in the magazine! Our herbal magazine, featuring remedies, recipes and projects with plants for the winter season, can be purchased as a digital version here and as a printed version here.
For a truly aromatic and sustainable way to start your fires, consider crafting herbal fire starters. This ancient practice dates back to a time when fire was a precious resource, and starting it required skill and ingenuity. Early fire starters were often made from tinder, like dried leaves and twigs, and a flammable substance like animal fat or pine resin that ignited easily.
Combining fragrant herbs such as rosemary, sage, and lavender with a bit of wax, you can create a modern-day version of these traditional fire starters, adding a touch of ancestral wisdom to your winter hearth.
To make a simple fire starter at home, cut a piece of parchment paper into roughly a 4” x 4” square.
In the center, place pieces of the selected dried herbs and beeswax pellets or shavings from paraffin wax.
Gather the materials together in the center of the parchment paper and twist the sides of the paper until a small pouch is formed.
Store the fire starters in an airtight container near your fireplace for easy access.
To use, place 1-2 of the herbal fire starters, along with chosen kindling, into the fireplace and ignite. The fire starter will aid in quick ignition of the kindling and release the aromas from the dried herbs for a relaxing sensory experience.
Nestled on a small farm in Northern California, Julia crafts a life rich in slow living and mindful solutions. Her writing at afarmtokeep.com explores the comforting world of herbs, gardening, cozy spaces, and the simple joys of crafting. Discover how to nourish your soul and create a home that truly warms the heart.
