Burning a 50p herb could help banish flies from your home. Experts say it could also help with air purity and creating a relaxing aroma.
Rosemary has been used for centuries to enhance wellbeing and has recently seen a surge in popularity in France. It comes at a time when people are looking for cheap and easy ways to solve household problems. And a packet of rosemary sprigs can be bought for as little as 52p at supermarkets such as Aldi and Sainsbury’s.
The practice of burning aromatic herbs to repel insects and improve wellbeing was a favoured move by families living on the continent long before aerosols came along. According to Infobae, it was commonly done in homes that were smaller and less well-ventilated than modern homes.
“Rosemary, in particular, stood out for its ability to improve the air, making it fresher and lighter—something especially useful in enclosed spaces,” it reports.
However the rise of modern aerosols saw the practice of burning herbs die out. Although with a desire to return to a more environmentally-friendly world, rosemary has reportedly seen a revival.
The gentle smoke of burning rosemary is said to provide a natural cleanser for the air, masking cooking smells as well as dampness. Infobae says it also promotes “mental clarity” by encouraging people to feel a sense of calmness.
And, vitally, rosemary is said to act as a natural repellent to flies, moths and mosquitoes without the need of a chemical solution. “This not only helps keep the home free from pests but also contributes to a healthier environment by avoiding the toxins often found in commercial products,” Infobae explains.
It is however important to use rosemary incense safely. The burning herbs should never be left alone and should only be used in a fire-proof container.
Around 10 or 12 sprigs should be enough to create a perfect amount of smoke. They should then be burnt for just a few seconds and blown out, to create the dense smoke.
They can then be moved throughout the home to spread the aroma. The practice is not advised for homes with young children, pregnant women, or people with respiratory problems however.
Writing on Instagram, holistic therapy expert Diana Levy said: “Always use dried rosemary leaves or bundles specifically intended for burning, and ensure proper ventilation in the space to avoid inhaling excessive smoke.”
Diana says burning rosemary can have a number of benefits, including “calming the mind and body”. She wrote: “The aromatic smoke produced by burning rosemary can have a calming and soothing effect on the mind and body. Inhaling the scent of rosemary can help reduce stress, anxiety, and tension, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.”
