In the modern world, with so many options for products and solutions to combat bad odors in our homes, we often forget the wise customs and tricks that our grandparents used to use to keep environments fresh and pleasant.
One of those tricks lost in time is the use of rosemary sprigs inside a jar to neutralize bad odors, especially in the refrigerator.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is an aromatic plant known for its fresh, herbal fragrance. Its essential oils and volatile compounds release a characteristic aroma that is not only pleasant for us, but also has the ability to neutralize unwanted odors in the environment.
In this article, we rescue this tradition and explore why rosemary is an effective and natural option to keep our spaces free of unpleasant odors.
The refrigerator, a place prone to bad odors
The refrigerator is one of the most important appliances in our kitchens, but it is also a place prone to the accumulation of unpleasant odors.
Despite our efforts to keep food in good condition and the refrigerator clean, some foods may release strong, pungent odors. These odors can permeate other foods and affect the freshness of what we keep in the refrigerator.
The simple custom of our grandmothers
Our grandmothers knew how to take advantage of the properties of rosemary to keep odors at bay in the refrigerator and other spaces in the house.
The custom was as simple as placing three branches of fresh rosemary inside a clean, dry jar and then placing this jar on a shelf or in a corner of the refrigerator. The rosemary gradually released its aroma, filling the interior of the refrigerator with its herbal freshness and neutralizing all bad odors.
Benefits of using rosemary to neutralize odors
- Natural and Safe: Unlike synthetic air fresheners and chemicals, rosemary is a completely natural and safe option for neutralizing odors in the home. It does not contain toxic products or harmful chemicals that can affect the quality of the air we breathe.
- Economical and sustainable: Rosemary is an accessible plant and easy to find in many parts of the world. Not only is it economical, but it is also sustainable as it can be grown in gardens or pots at home.
- Multipurpose: In addition to using it in the refrigerator, rosemary sprigs can be placed in other spaces in the home, such as closets, pantries or even the bathroom, to keep bad odors at bay.
- Herbal freshness: The aroma of rosemary is fresh, pleasant and relaxing. It not only neutralizes odors, but also provides a feeling of cleanliness and well-being in the home.
- Continued on next page
