Monarda essential oil is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Many people take it orally to help ward off disease. However, you can also use Monarda essential oil in your home. It may help keep the levels of contaminants in your air under control, and its aromatic qualities can also help you feel grounded, stress-free, and relaxed. If you're interested in using this essential oil around your home, here are a few strategies to try.

Homemade Reed Diffusers

You can buy pre-packed reed diffusers at some stores. If you come across one that is made with Monarda essential oil, then consider purchasing it. However, you can also make your own Monarda essential oil reed diffuser. Buy a reed diffuser kit, which typically comes with a couple of reeds and a glass bottle. To the bottle, add about 20 drops of Monarda essential oil. Then, fill the bottle the rest of the way up with vodka. Add the reeds, and screw on the lid. This may sound strange, but the high alcohol content in the vodka means it will saturate the reeds and then start evaporating into the air, and the Monarda essential oil will go along with it. If you don't have vodka, you can instead fill the bottle with plain olive oil, although the scent won't be as strong.

Homemade Potpourri

Potpourri is sometimes seen as a little old-fashioned, but when made with essential oils, it will have a more modern and therapeutic scent than you are used to. Making your own potpourri is actually easier than you might think. First, you need some pine cones and a few chips of cedarwood. Put them in a plastic bag, and then randomly add about 20 drops of Monarda essential oil to the bag. You can also add a few drops of rose oil if you want the potpourri to have a more potent scent. Shake and massage the bag for about 10 minutes. This should distribute the oils. Then, pour your potpourri into a bowl or a display vessel, and enjoy the scent.

You can re-scent the potpourri by putting it back in the bag and adding some more essential oil. You'll need to do this about once a month to keep the scent alive. You can keep reusing the same pine cones and cedar chips again and again.

Scenting your home with Monarda essential oil is a great way to experience this natural oil. Whether you make your own reed diffuser or your own potpourri, you get to enjoy a simple craft and also a therapeutic scent.